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Building Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... building in Chicago, IL ... Summary Operating Engineers are assigned to perform duties associated with the operation ...

Operating Engineer

Salisbury, NC ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

As an Operating Engineer, you will be maintaining and repairing equipment both on- and off-site as ... You will also log any equipment needs or replacements, make minor building or structural repairs ...

As an Operating Engineer, you will be maintaining and repairing equipment both on- and off-site as ... You will also log any equipment needs or replacements, make minor building or structural repairs ...

Operating Engineer

Round Rock, TX ยท On-site

$26.15 - $32.07/hr

Operating Engineer - JLL What this job involves: Build your technical career with JLL as an ... Operate, maintain, and repair facility equipment across all building systems including HVAC, ...

Operating Engineer

Salisbury, NC ยท On-site

$62.30K - $84.20K/yr

As an Operating Engineer, you will be maintaining and repairing equipment both on- and off-site as ... You will also log any equipment needs or replacements, make minor building or structural repairs ...

As an Operating Engineer, you will be maintaining and repairing equipment both on- and off-site as ... You will also log any equipment needs or replacements, make minor building or structural repairs ...

Operating Engineer - Location: North Houston, Texas POSITION SUMMARY The Operating Engineer is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of all building systems at ...

Building Operations & Maintenance * Operate, monitor, and maintain HVAC systems, including chillers ... of Operating Engineers Local 94. * All terms and conditions of employment, including wages ...

Operating Engineer - Location: North Houston, Texas POSITION SUMMARY The Operating Engineer is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of all building systems at ...

Operating Engineer

Chico, CA ยท On-site

$64.26K - $93.61K/yr

This position works under direct supervision of the Supervising Building Services Engineer and general supervision of the Manager of Engineering Trades/Chief Engineer. Operating Engineers work shifts ...

Operating Engineer

Chino, CA ยท On-site

$70.70K - $95.60K/yr

Operating all types of heavy equipment, machinery, vehicles (fixed and mobile), hoisting equipment, and other facilities used in building, highway, engineering, and heavy construction. * Performing ...

Operating Engineer

Chico, CA ยท On-site

$64.26K - $93.61K/yr

This position works under direct supervision of the Supervising Building Services Engineer and general supervision of the Manager of Engineering Trades/Chief Engineer. Operating Engineers work shifts ...

Operating Engineer

Chico, CA ยท On-site

$64.26K - $93.61K/yr

This position works under direct supervision of the Supervising Building Services Engineer and general supervision of the Manager of Engineering Trades/Chief Engineer. Operating Engineers work shifts ...

Lead Operating Engineer

Alamo, TN ยท On-site

$97.10K - $127.90K/yr

The Operating Engineer plays a critical role in managing day-to-day facility operations for ... Operate, maintain, and repair building systems including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, structural ...

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Building Operating Engineer information

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How much do building operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for building operating engineer in the United States is $32.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $36.54 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 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.

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.

More about Building Operating Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Building Operating Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Building Operating Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Building Operating Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Building Operating Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Building Operating Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Building Operating Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Building Operating Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,285 per year, or $32.3 per hour.
Building Engineer

Building Engineer

EML

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Operating Engineer - Chicago, IL

EML has an immediate Full-Time opening for experienced Operating Engineers for our government contract site at the Harold Washington Social Security Administration building in Chicago, IL.

Summary

Operating Engineers are assigned to perform duties associated with the operation, maintenance, and repair of a number of building systems including refrigeration, and HVAC equipment. Operating Engineers operate mechanical/electrical equipment and machinery on an assigned watch, tours the building and operating machinery, completes repairs, or performs Preventive Maintenance functions. Will also work to determine when auxiliary system components need to be brought "on-line" to maximize equipment load balance and to maintain acceptable indoor environmental conditions.

Primary Duties

  • Conducts physical inspections of equipment and performs such tasks as oiling and greasing, testing for refrigerant leaks, proper functioning of controls, and determines when auxiliary system components need to be brought "on-line" to maximize equipment load balance and to maintain acceptable indoor environmental conditions.
  • Engages in observing and testing this equipment for correct operation of all components of the refrigeration cycle and other relevant factors contributing to the proper and efficient operation of the heating and air-conditioning systems.
  • Perform repairs to ventilating, refrigeration, and heating equipment and components.
  • Check steam pressure reducing stations, vacuum pumps and sump pumps.
  • Answer occupant complaints relating to heating and air-conditioning temperature and humidity factors when performing "service calls" in occupied office spaces, and makes other required adjustments to equipment.
  • Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Prior experience as an Operating Engineer in a large facility similar in the size and scope of the Harold Washington Social Security Administration building.
  • Must have in-depth skill and knowledge in an array of building systems, including HVAC equipment. Ability to perform preventive maintenance on all operational and mechanical equipment and knowledge to operate related electrical equipment and machinery is required.
  • Obtain and sustain all required licenses and/or certifications required under the specifics of the contract

Language Skills

Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write detailed reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of the organization.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; and risk of electrical shock. The employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions, extreme cold, and extreme heat. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

EML is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC and a Drug Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Candidates for this position must be able to pass all required background checks necessary to obtain and sustain clearance to secure federal buildings.