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Chief Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Chief Operating Engineer information

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How much do chief operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for chief operating engineer in the United States is $57.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36.30 and $61.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Chief Operating Engineer, you need deep expertise in building systems operations, mechanical and electrical engineering, and typically a Stationary Engineer license or relevant certifications. Proficiency in HVAC, boiler controls, computerized building management systems, and compliance with safety regulations is essential. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills for managing teams and responding swiftly to facility issues. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of critical infrastructure, minimizing risks and costly downtime.

What is the meaning of chief?

In the context of a Chief Operating Engineer, the term 'chief' refers to a leadership position responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of building systems, such as HVAC, electrical, and mechanical equipment. The role typically requires technical expertise, management skills, and often relevant certifications or licenses. The 'chief' title indicates a senior or supervisory level within the engineering team.

What is the difference between Chief Operating Engineer vs Maintenance Engineer?

AspectChief Operating EngineerMaintenance Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires HVAC, boiler operator licenses, or engineering certificationsOften requires HVAC or electrical certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentSupervises building systems, mechanical equipment, and facilities managementPerforms maintenance, repairs, and inspections of equipment and systems
Employer & IndustryFound in commercial, industrial, or institutional facilitiesCommon in manufacturing, facilities, and building management

The Chief Operating Engineer oversees the operation and maintenance of building systems, ensuring safety and efficiency, while the Maintenance Engineer focuses on repairing and maintaining equipment. Both roles require technical certifications and work in similar environments, but the Chief Operating Engineer has broader supervisory responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by a Chief Operating Engineer, and how can they be addressed?

Chief Operating Engineers often face the challenge of balancing operational efficiency with strict safety regulations and budget constraints. They must ensure that all engineering systems run smoothly while coordinating maintenance schedules and responding quickly to unexpected mechanical issues. Effective communication with cross-functional teams and proactive planning are essential to minimize downtime and optimize resource allocation. Staying updated on industry best practices and investing in staff training can help address these challenges and lead to more efficient operations.

What is another word for chief?

In the context of a Chief Operating Engineer, another word for 'chief' is 'head,' 'leader,' or 'manager.' These terms refer to the person responsible for overseeing operations, often requiring technical skills and certifications in engineering or facilities management.

What is a Chief Operating Engineer?

A Chief Operating Engineer is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of engineering systems within a facility, such as HVAC, electrical, and mechanical systems. They lead a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring that all equipment runs efficiently and safely. Their role often includes managing budgets, coordinating repairs, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and implementing preventative maintenance programs. Chief Operating Engineers typically work in large buildings, industrial plants, or commercial complexes. This position requires extensive technical knowledge, leadership skills, and relevant certifications.

Is it chief or cheif?

The correct job title is 'Chief Operating Engineer,' with 'Chief' spelled C-H-I-E-F. This title refers to a senior engineering role responsible for overseeing operations, often requiring technical skills, certifications, and management experience. The spelling 'cheif' is incorrect and not used in professional contexts.

Is it racist to call someone chief?

In the context of a Chief Operating Engineer or similar roles, the term 'chief' is a standard title denoting leadership and does not have racial connotations. Using 'chief' as a title is generally considered respectful and professional, regardless of the individual's background. However, sensitivity to context and workplace culture is important to ensure respectful communication.
More about Chief Operating Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Chief Operating Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Chief Operating Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Operating Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Chief Operating Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Chief Operating Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Chief Operating Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Chief Operating Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $119,748 per year, or $57.6 per hour.
Chief Operating Engineer

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 153 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title

Chief Operating Engineer

Job Description Summary

POSITION SUMMARY
Chief Engineer is responsible for the effective daily leadership of his/her staff, managing the engineering program to the highest level of quality work and customer service as well as the administration of the engineering department in alignment with the management team, the C&W engineering platform, and client expectations. The Chief Engineer will perform at the highest of ethical standards, reflecting the core values of C&W as defined in its Business Code of Conduct, Policies and Procedures Manual, and other related company policies. Responsible to plan, implement, coordinate, and supervise all mechanical operations, maintenance, communications, energy management, and manpower development programs for assigned properties. The Chief Engineer may be required to perform limited hands on operational duties and is not precluded from performing Watch Activity.

Job Description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervise engineers and maintenance staff including hiring, training, personnel development, etc.
Ensure performance management, coaching, and development of team members through established HR processes and disciplinary actions.
Participate and coordinate annual scheduling and execution of the C&W Safety Program as directed by Asset Services, Engineering Leadership, EH&S Administration, and so forth. Responsible for 100% Compliance at his/her site.
Manage operational accounts for building, including variance reporting, as required and assist in development of operating and capital budgets
Utility Management such as tracking use, consumption, cost, reporting, comparison models, sub-metering, budgeting, variances as directed by Management and/or Leadership.
Conduct regular inspections of building systems and equipment; identify and resolve issues.
Assist in maintenance/engineering issues as required
Recommend and implement improvements for preventive maintenance programs on an ongoing basis.
Develop, implement, and maintain an effective preventive and predictive maintenance program for task scheduling, routines, and performance. Program to include procedures for annual, semi-annual, quarterly, monthly and other scheduled maintenance as provided by the manufacturer's recommendations and/or industry best practices.
Develop and maintain effective building-specific maintenance and safety procedure manuals.
Coordinate development of and/or maintain an Operations Document Library, including but not limited to construction plans, structural plans, as-built drawings, MEP schedules, line diagrams and schematics, equipment and operation manuals, start up and commissioning documents, and equipment warranties.
Formulate and conduct building-related systems and equipment training.
Coordinate maintenance efforts with outside contractors, tenant finish personnel, and engineers.
Oversee all building systems including fire/life safety, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical issues; must remain current with latest HVAC technology trends.
Maintain ongoing communication with tenants, clients, property management, and vendors
Develop specifications and assist in solicitation, administration, execution and performance of maintenance/ repair service contracts.
May assist in solicitation and acquisition of new management contracts
Respond to all emergency situations quickly (fire, evacuation, equipment failure etc.) and customer concerns
Implement and administer inventory control programs, purchase parts and supplies.
Ensure compliance with applicable codes, requisitions, government agency, and company directives as relates to building operations.
Duties are inclusive of approximately 50% operating engineer responsibilities;
May be only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts; may require shift work and/or on-call or stand-by duties
KEY COMPETENCIES
Communication Proficiency (oral and written)
Interpersonal Skills
Organization Skills
Technical Proficiency
Leadership
IMPORTANT EDUCATION
High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE
7+ years of related work experience in a commercial property setting or any similar combination of education or experience
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
Vocational/Technical training certificate
Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, i.e. Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses
Universal Technician for CFC's depending on market licensure requirements
Financial knowledge necessary for reading and understanding budgets, budget variances and basic reporting as required by management
Familiar with Energy Management System (EMS)/programming and fire alarm systems
Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word
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.
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.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate with others and exchange accurate information; operate a computer and other office productivity machinery; move about the workplace; remain in a stationary position for 30-40% of the time; and extend hands and arms in any direction.
AAP/EEO STATEMENT
C&W provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Further, the company takes affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed and employees during employment are treated without regard to any of these characteristics. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.


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: $51.00 - $60.00Cushman & 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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