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Building Operating Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA

$80K - $108K/yr

The Operating Engineer will serve as a senior-level licensed professional responsible for the ... Monitor and adjust building systems to maintain proper temperature, humidity, and air quality ...

Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

The Operating Engineer will serve as a senior-level licensed professional responsible for the ... Monitor and adjust building systems to maintain proper temperature, humidity, and air quality ...

Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$80K - $108K/yr

The Operating Engineer will serve as a senior-level licensed professional responsible for the ... Monitor and adjust building systems to maintain proper temperature, humidity, and air quality ...

Operating Engineer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... Typically, this position does not have a Chief Engineer on-site at the building and is sometimes ...

Operating Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... Typically, this position does not have a Chief Engineer on-site at the building and is sometimes ...

Job Overview The Operating Engineer II position requires strong technical, mechanical and ... Maintain and repair all types of building equipment, HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing ...

Operating Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... Typically, this position does not have a Chief Engineer on-site at the building and is sometimes ...

Operating Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... Typically, this position does not have a Chief Engineer on-site at the building and is sometimes ...

Operating Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and ... Typically, this position does not have a Chief Engineer on-site at the building and is sometimes ...

Job Overview The Operating Engineer II position requires strong technical, mechanical and ... Maintain and repair all types of building equipment, HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing ...

Operating Engineer

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... the building(s) • Maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units ...

Operating Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... building(s) Maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units, pumps ...

Comstock is currently seeking an Operating Engineer for our commercial property in Ashburn and ... Maintain and repair all types of building equipment, HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing ...

Operating Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... building(s) Maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units, pumps ...

Operating Engineer

Falls Church, VA

$74K - $100K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... the building(s) • Maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units ...

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Building Operating Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$20

$36

$59

How much do building operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for building operating engineer in Washington, DC is $36.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.65 and $41.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Building Operating Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Operating Engineer, you need strong knowledge of HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, often supported by a technical diploma or engineering certifications. Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS), computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and relevant licensing (such as a Stationary Engineer license) is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you respond quickly to issues and work with tenants or vendors. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable building operations.

What are Building Operating Engineers?

Building Operating Engineers are skilled professionals responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of a building's mechanical, electrical, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. They ensure that all building systems function efficiently and safely, addressing issues as they arise and performing routine inspections. These engineers play a critical role in maintaining comfort, energy efficiency, and safety in commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities. Their work often involves troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and coordination with contractors or other building services staff.

What is the difference between Building Operating Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectBuilding Operating EngineerMaintenance Technician
CertificationsStationary Engineer license, HVAC certificationsHVAC, electrical, plumbing certifications
Work EnvironmentCommercial buildings, industrial facilitiesVarious settings including residential, commercial, industrial
Job FocusOperating and maintaining building systemsPerforming repairs and routine maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageProperty management, facilities managementFacilities, maintenance companies, industrial plants

Building Operating Engineers primarily focus on operating and maintaining complex building systems like HVAC, boilers, and electrical systems, often requiring specialized licenses. Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and routine maintenance across various systems. While both roles ensure building functionality, Building Operating Engineers typically work in larger facilities with more technical systems, whereas Maintenance Technicians have a broader, more general maintenance scope.

What are some common challenges Building Operating Engineers face in maintaining large commercial facilities?

Building Operating Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex HVAC systems, responding to unexpected equipment failures, and balancing preventive maintenance with urgent repair requests. They must also stay updated on building codes and environmental regulations, ensuring compliance while keeping systems running efficiently. Collaboration with other maintenance staff, vendors, and property management is essential, especially during large-scale repairs or upgrades.
Infographic showing various Building Operating Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,716 per year, or $36.4 per hour.
M26/27 BUILDING OPERATING ENGINEER (GUNSTON)

M26/27 BUILDING OPERATING ENGINEER (GUNSTON)

Arlington Public Schools

Arlington, VA

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Human Resources announces an opening for a 1.0 Building Operating Engineer, M-13 located at Gunston Middle School. MINIMUM EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:  Graduation from high school, and completion of a formal apprenticeship training in one or more of the building trades, and extensive experience in HVAC and general maintenance or repair work; or any equivalent combination of education and experience that would provide the above noted knowledge, skill, and ability.  LICENSE/CERTIFICATION:  Journey License in HVAC, plumbing or electricity (Masters in one preferred); Possession of an appropriate, valid vehicle operator's license; Must be CFC certified.  NOTE:  All APS employees authorized to drive APS vehicles are subject to either the Omnibus Transpiration Act drug or alcohol testing procedures (if required to possess CDL) OR THE APS Alcohol and Drug testing procedures (if CDL is not required).

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:  Comprehensive knowledge of the methods, materials, tools and practices used in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, general maintenance, and computerized energy management procedures and components.  Must posses and maintain thorough knowledge of new technologies related to job responsibilities.  Ability to interpret and follow the BOCA Mechanical Codes and Arlington County ordinances for proper installation and/or repair of mechanical equipment.  Ability to interpret and utilize blueprints and schematics, wiring codes.  Ability to observe general building conditions in order to trouble-shoot and repair mechanical systems.  Ability to follow written and oral instructions, diagrams, blueprints, schematics (mechanical, electrical and electronic) and manufacturer's manuals, Ability to estimate time and materials needed for small jobs and to perform routine record keeping tasks, written reports and mathematical computations.  Ability to inspect, diagnose problems and make repairs or request appropriate support personnel from APS in HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and other services.  Ability to work cooperatively with school professional and custodial staff and maintenance personnel.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASS (May not include all duties performed; not all incumbents perform all essential functions delineated.)  Adjusts, services, repairs, and performs preventative maintenance and filter replacement on all HVAC equipment to ensure optimum efficiency of operation along with Energy Management personnel.  Schedules, and conducts inspections of gauges, meters, controls, and equipment (e.g., HVAC systems) to ensure all units are operating properly and prepares inspection and other reports.  Inspects and supervises or performs routine preventative maintenance on and minor repairs to plumbing and electrical systems; oversees or performs minor carpentry and related repairs.  Operates and maintains field related hand and power tools, able to use ladders and scaffolding, and lift heavy items.  Assists in the orientation and training of professional and custodial staff in the operation of mechanical equipment; performs or assists in emergency repairs as required.

Salary range based on FY26-27 Pay Plan.

Arlington Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer

It is the policy of the Arlington School Board, as stated in Policy G-2.30, Employee Relations - Equal Employment Opportunity - that "Employment opportunities shall not be restricted, abridged or otherwise adversely affected on the basis of race, national origin, creed, color, religion, gender, age, economic status, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, genetic information, gender identity or expression, and/or disability.