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Building Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing, or arranging for repairs of all building operating systems on the site. May be assigned to a single building as the sole engineer under a ...

Responsibilities Responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing, or arranging for repairs of all building operating systems on the site. May be assigned to a single building as the sole ...

Building Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$32 - $45/hr

... Building, and the 3 million square foot Burnham Place air rights development project at Union ... Our operating and development expertise gives us an unparalleled ability to execute these ...

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Building Operator information

See Washington salary details

$16

$27

$53

How much do building operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for building operator in Washington is $27.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $32.93 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 Washington? For Building Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Building Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Building Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Building Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Building Operator jobs in WA? For Building Operator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Building Operating Engineer

Building Operating Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield

Washington, DC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 153 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title

Building Operating Engineer

Job Description Summary

Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for the assigned property(s). Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) maintaining a clean and safe working environment, performing rounds, conducting routine assessments, performance of day-to-day preventive and corrective maintenance, painting, and housekeeping for assigned properties

Job Description


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC requirements of the building(s)
Maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, VAV, and air distribution systems, etc.
Monitor and adjust all mechanical/pneumatic equipment, steam stations, control gauges, distributor panels, valves, thermostats, diffusers, and other equipment necessary to provide a comfortable environment for the buildings
Verify field conditions and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments
Monitor Energy Management
Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, and floors and other general repairs, adjustments and installations about the property
Perform repairs to plumbing fixtures (water closets, urinals, flush valve assemblies, lavatories, etc.)
Perform preventive maintenance duties in accordance with C&W standards, building protocol, manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices. including changing filters, cleaning coils, flushing condensers, punching tubes, greasing fan, pump and motor bearings as required, inspecting and adjusting belts, replacing motor bearings, aligning pulleys and shafts, monitor condenser, chilled, heating and secondary water chemical treatment and its associated feed equipment, clean and maintain cooling towers, and perform annual inspections and other scheduled routines as directed.
Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric rooms, back-up generator, fire pump(s), sump pump(s), and ejector pumps. Replace lamps, light fixtures, reinstall or replace signage, verify rooms are clean and clear of obstructions and debris
Check for properly operating emergency exit signs and lights and ensure free and clear access to emergency stairs and exits. Perform additional fire and life safety inspections as per NFPA and local jurisdiction, C&W standards, building protocol and as directed by superiors and property management
Document and report activities to supervisor
Respond immediately to emergency situations (fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.) and customer concerns
Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as relates to building operations and practice safe work habits
Complete all required C&W Safety Training as scheduled annually
Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code while working and maintain a neat and clean appearance while on the property at times other than working hours
KEY COMPETENCIES
Technical Proficiency
Initiative
Flexibility
Multi-Tasking
Sense of Urgency
IMPORTANT EDUCATION
High School Diploma of GED Equivalent
Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred
IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE
5+ years of related work experience in operating mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, i.e. Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses, such as Refrigeration Certificate of Fitness, High Pressure Boiler License, High Pressure Steam Operator, etc.)
May be required to have certification as a Universal Technician for CFC's depending on market licensure requirements
Possess and maintain a valid driver's license and good driving record with periodic checks (where applicable)
Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word
Experience in operation, maintenance and basic repair of HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, water systems, etc.
Knowledgeable in energy management systems, techniques and operations.
Thorough knowledge in all building systems operations, maintenance and repair.
May be only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts; may be required to work extended periods of time without relief when responding to priority/emergency situations (including overtime type assignments); may require shift work and/or on call duties
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Regularly required to travel outside between properties in varying weather conditions.
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.
Must have ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs. of equipment (pumps, tools, ladders) and safely install rigging/lifting devices
Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine
Involves movement between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work
Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you
Ability to read and understand information presented orally and in writing
Regularly required to utilize vision abilities, allowing reading of printed material, drawings, and schematics
OTHER DUTIES
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.


Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate's experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $31.45 - $37.00Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or emailAccommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.

INCO: "Cushman & Wakefield"

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