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Building Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Building Systems Technician II

MN · On-site

$26.18 - $35.65/hr

Continuous JOB SPECIFICS The Building Systems Technician II performs a variety of basic to highly skilled technical work maintaining, operating, and repairing mechanical, electrical, and HVAC systems ...

Certified Building Operator (BOC) Level 1 (required) Knowledge Requirements: * Basic fundamentals and operational principles involving combustion, mechanical, electrical and HVAC equipment and ...

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Building Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$14

$23

$46

How much do building operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for building operator in Minnesota is $23.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $28.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Building Operator, you need strong knowledge of building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing), preventive maintenance procedures, and often a relevant technical diploma or certification. Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS), computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and safety regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient facility operation, tenant comfort, and compliance with safety and maintenance standards.

What Is a Building Operator?

As a building operator, you oversee the operations of a building or facility to ensure that its electrical and mechanical equipment, as well as heating and cooling, are working properly. Your duties may include inspecting the building for safety hazards and regulation violations, performing repairs, and checking the facility’s ability to operate successfully. You may also supervise other employees. A career as a building operator typically requires a diploma or certification training program to gain hands-on experience in areas such as building science and energy efficiency. You may also need state certificates of fitness in facility components like interior fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and refrigeration to demonstrate your ability to handle these potentially dangerous materials. Additional qualifications include strong mechanical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of industry regulations.

What are building operators?

Building operators are responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of commercial, residential, or industrial buildings. They ensure that the building's systems—such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, and electrical—are functioning efficiently and safely. Building operators also coordinate repairs, manage service contractors, respond to tenant or occupant concerns, and may assist with energy management and regulatory compliance. Their work is essential for maintaining a comfortable, safe, and efficient environment within the property.

What is the difference between Building Operator vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectBuilding OperatorMaintenance Technician
CredentialsOften requires HVAC, electrical, or plumbing certificationsTypically needs HVAC, electrical, or plumbing certifications
Work EnvironmentManages building systems, often in commercial or institutional settingsPerforms repairs and maintenance, often in various facilities
Employer & IndustryReal estate management, property management, facilities servicesFacilities management, repair services, industrial settings

Building Operators and Maintenance Technicians share similar certifications and work environments, often overlapping in skills related to HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems. Building Operators focus on managing entire building systems and ensuring operational efficiency, while Maintenance Technicians primarily perform repairs and routine maintenance. Both roles are essential in maintaining building functionality and are commonly sought in property management and facilities industries.

What are some typical challenges a Building Operator might face on a daily basis?

Building Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to urgent maintenance issues, troubleshooting complex building systems, and balancing preventive maintenance with unexpected repairs. They must also coordinate with vendors, tenants, and other facility staff to ensure smooth building operations while maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Adaptability and strong communication skills are key to managing the fast-paced and sometimes unpredictable nature of the role.
What are popular job titles related to Building Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Building Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Operator jobs in MN? For Building Operator jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Building Engineer or Operations Engineer

Building Engineer or Operations Engineer

Hines

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

Other

PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Hines rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 153 rated real estate companies


Job description

Overview

When you join Hines, you will embark on a career journey fueled by vision and guided by leaders who set the standards of our industry. Our legacy is rooted in innovation and excellence, earning us a spot on Fast Company's esteemed annual list of the World's Most Innovative Companies, as well as recognition as one of U.S. News & World Report's Best Companies to Work For in 2024. Discover endless opportunities to grow and make your mark at Hines.

Responsibilities

As a Building Engineer or Operations Engineer with Hines, you will maintain basic operation and maintenance of all building equipment and systems by routinely reviewing operating conditions and established programs with Supervisor to understand and resolve any abnormal operating issues. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on all mechanical, electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems including, but not limited to pumps, chillers, boilers, air compressors and air handling units.
  • Make adjustments and changes to HVAC and related equipment in order to maintain established operating criteria within the guidelines set forth by the Supervisor. 
  • Perform general repairs, maintenance and replacement of building components including, but not limited to: building fixtures and appliances, plumbing and electrical.
  • Participate in the water treatment chemical programs established in the property.
  • Maintain operation logs and files, where appropriate, to include, but not limited to: central plant operations, chemical consumption logs and other equipment or operation inspection logs specific to the property.
  • Apply working knowledge and skills in HVAC distribution and controls in order to make adjustments and/or corrective actions to resolve work orders.
  • Provide prompt and courteous response to tenant requests within the guidelines set forth by Hines.
  • Maintain ethical, professional, and courteous relations with contractors and tenants.
  • Establish and maintain a cooperative working relationship with the entire operation staff and perform as a team member.
  • Demonstrate full competency in all current Hines and property emergency procedures including but not limited to:
    • Assist with directing building occupants with evacuations
    • Assist with bomb searches
    • Assist with life safety system alarms
    • Assist emergency authorities and response teams
  • Utilize fire alarm and life safety systems at assigned property and make adjustments as needed.
  • Adhere to all Hines and property policies and procedures and perform all duties in a safe manner and help ensure compliance with city, state and federal safety and environmental laws, codes, standards, and regulations.
  • Actively participate in required training activities and seminars.
Qualifications

Minimum Requirements include:

  • High school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
  • Two years commercial HVAC or related experience.
  • Successful completion of the Hines "Introduction to Engineering" training program.

  • Functional knowledge of the Engineering Assessment Guidelines and can demonstrate proficiency in the assigned area(s) of the Guidelines.

  • Read and use all types of testing equipment, analog digital multi-meters, pressure, and temperature indicating and recording devices, air flow measuring devices, and leak detection devices.

  • Knowledge and proper use of basic hand tools (i.e., socket sets, wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, saws, and hammers, etc.).

  • Read and understand a variety of instructions, including equipment instruction manuals, furnished in written, oral, or schedule form.

  • Understand correct usage of power tools (pneumatic, electric or engine drive), drill motors, saws, grinder, and impact wrenches, etc.

  • Compute basic mathematical equations for equipment performance testing and building operations.

  • Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

  • Possess sufficient computer skills to effectively administer required engineering programs.

  • Interact with employees, visitors and contractors with poise and diplomacy.

  • Maintain calm demeanor in emergency situations.

  • Understand and apply correct usage of all personal safety equipment.

  • When applicable, obtain required city and/or government licenses or permits (i.e., Boiler Operating Permit, State Maintenance Electrician's License, EPA CFC Universal Certification Technician certificate, etc.).

  • Work indoors approximately 80% of the time and outdoors approximately 20% of the time.

  • Use olfactory, auditory, and visual senses.

  • Work standing all day.

  • Ability to lift 25 lbs. or more.

  • Climb up and down stairs and ladders.

  • Access remote work areas and confined spaces (i.e., crawl spaces, roofs).

  • Use full range of manual dexterity (i.e., sitting, squatting, bending, kneeling, walking, and lifting).

  • Meet the shift working requirements of the assigned property; shifts may include early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and some holidays.

  • Work overtime as business needs deem appropriate.

  • Compensation: $65,100 - $75,100
Closing

At Hines, we strive for excellence as a leading global real estate investment manager, driven by our by our belief that real estate is fundamentally about people. Our diverse portfolio spans $93.2 billion of assets across such property types as living, office, retail, mixed-use, logistics and life science projects - all designed to enhance value, connection and inspiration. Our strategic approach integrates local expertise with global knowledge, taking calculated risks aligned with our convictions to exceed expectations and tailor solutions to our clients' needs.

While our projects are renowned for enhancing cities and pioneering sustainable practices, we recognize that the true driving force behind Hines' success is our 5,000 dedicated employees in 30 countries who draw on our 65-year history to build the world forward. This is why we prioritize investing in our people, offering comprehensive training, competitive compensation, robust benefits and generous vacation packages. By centering our focus on the growth and wellbeing of our team, we cultivate an inclusive environment where everyone, including our clients, can thrive.

Hines is proud to be named to Fast Company's prestigious annual list of the World's Most Innovative Companies for 2024. Includes both the global Hines organization and RIA AUM as of December 31, 2023.

We are an equal opportunity employer and support workforce diversity.

No calls or emails from third parties at this time please.

Employment Type: OTHER

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