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Building Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

NEWMARK

Engineer, Building

Alexandria, VA

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 ...

NEWMARK

Engineer, Building

Alexandria, VA · On-site

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 ...

JOHN AKRIDGE CO LLC

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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All JobsBuilding Operator JobsBuilding Operator Jobs in Washington

Building Operator information

See Washington salary details

$16

$27

$53

How much do building operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 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.
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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 Operator jobs near you
Engineer, Building

Engineer, Building

NEWMARK

Alexandria, VA

Part-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Newmark rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 154 rated real estate companies

Job description

Job Description:

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 limited property size and scope. Must have reliable transportation and be available for after hour emergency calls.

Essential Job Duties:

  • Responsible for all preventative maintenance, necessary maintenance and repairs to the buildings mechanical, electrical, HVAC and plumbing systems. Must be familiar with the location and have working knowledge of all building mechanical, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, life safety, fire protection and security systems to ensure proper operations and be able to act upon any conditions that are out of the ordinary.
  • Conduct periodic general preventative maintenance on the mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing systems. This involves normal lubrication, adjustment, cleaning, replacement of consumable parts (such as filters, indicator lights, etc.), and periodic testing of the equipment. These systems include, but are not limited to; air handling units (including both rooftop and built-up units), re-circulating air systems, water pumping systems, cooling plant and all plumbing system components. Also, conduct general building maintenance, as needed.
  • Be responsive to tenant requests in the areas of safety, plumbing, mechanical, electrical and environmental needs through both personal contact and work order systems.
  • Prepare and maintain maintenance logs and records. Familiarity with preventative maintenance and work order software systems.
  • Coordinate contractor, tenant and management approvals for work orders that require the use of an outside contractor. Maintain log of work order details.
  • Perform all assigned work to ensure the safety of the building's tenants and the continuous operation of the site.
  • Be familiar with and conform to all written operating procedures associated with the site.
  • Assist in snow and ice clearing operations, including the coordination of plowing and salting activities by outside vendors.
  • Maintain organized building files.
  • May perform other duties as assigned.

Skills, Education and Experience:

  • High School Diploma.
  • Minimum of 5 years previous building operations engineering experience.
  • Must be CFC certified in high pressure discipline.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects and make decisions.
  • Proficient computer and e-mail skills.
  • Holds any necessary/required licenses.
  • Must have the ability to complete required safety classes that pertain to specific job duties.
  • Benefits and Perks:
  • Industry leading Parental Leave Policy (up to 16 weeks)
  • Generous healthcare
  • Bright Horizons back-up care program
  • Generous paid time off
  • Education reimbursement
  • Referral Program
  • Opportunities to network and connect

Benefits/perks listed may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Newmark and the job location.

Working Conditions: Normal working conditions with the absence of disagreeable elements

Note: The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees, and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

Newmark is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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