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Chief Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CBRE

Union Chief Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

About the Role As a CBRE Union Chief Operating Engineer, you will be responsible for engineering operations and directing vendors and subcontractors. This job is part of the Engineering and Technical ...

Solar Mason

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Scranton, PA · On-site +1

About Us Solar Mason is a trailblazing solar energy engineering, procurement, and construction ... The COO will be a key member of our senior management team, reporting only to the Chief Executive ...

pacsci

Chief Operating Officer

Pacific, WA · On-site

Chief Operating Officer Department: Office of the President Reports to: President and CEO Pay Class ... programming, and serving more than 100,000 students throughout our state with Science on Wheels.

MBR Partners

COO

Dallas, TX · On-site

The company is a leading player in Network Engineering, Data Center, and Fiber business. The ... The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be responsible for the overall financial and operational ...

MBR Partners

COO

Dallas, TX

The company is a leading player in Network Engineering, Data Center, and Fiber business. The ... The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be responsible for the overall financial and operational ...

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Chief Operating Engineer information

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How much do chief operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief operating engineer?

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 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 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 does a chief operating engineer do?

A chief operating engineer oversees the operation and maintenance of building systems such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing to ensure safety and efficiency. They typically manage staff, perform inspections, troubleshoot issues, and ensure compliance with safety regulations, often requiring relevant certifications and technical skills.
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Chief Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Operating Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,748 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Chief Operating Engineer

Gustavus Adolphus College

Saint Peter, MN • On-site

$28 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Gustavus Adolphus College rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
JOB SUMMARY: The Chief Operating Engineer provides leadership, oversight, and technical direction for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of the College's central mechanical systems and HVAC infrastructure. This position oversees the operation of campus boilers and steam distribution systems, chillers and chilled water distribution systems, Building Management Systems (BMS), and HVAC systems throughout College facilities.
The Chief Operating Engineer supervises and provides technical direction to operating engineers and coordinates mechanical operations with Facilities personnel, campus departments, contractors, and project teams. The position ensures mechanical systems are operated and maintained in compliance with applicable codes, regulations, safety standards, manufacturer requirements, and College policies.
Employment Status: Full-time (1.0 FTE), Benefits-Eligible, Non-exempt (Hourly)
Pay Range: $28.00-38.00 per hour
Application Procedure: Please continue the process below or on our website, www.gustavus.edu/humanresources/employment to complete the online application and submit your resume.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Provide overall operational and technical oversight of the College's central heating, cooling, and HVAC systems.
  • Plan, coordinate, and supervise the operation, maintenance, repair, and installation of campus boilers, steam distribution systems, chillers, chilled water distribution systems, Building Management Systems, and HVAC systems.
  • Supervise, schedule, train, and provide direction to operating engineers, including assigning work, monitoring performance, and supporting employee development.
  • Ensure boilers and steam distribution systems are operated safely and in accordance with applicable codes, regulations, manufacturer requirements, and College procedures.
  • Ensure campus chillers and chilled water distribution systems are operated safely, efficiently, and reliably.
  • Oversee the operation and monitoring of the Building Management System and other campus facilities systems.
  • Oversee the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of HVAC systems throughout campus facilities.
  • Establish and monitor preventive maintenance practices for mechanical equipment and systems to support reliability, efficiency, and longevity.
  • Inspect buildings and facilities to identify mechanical maintenance, repair, and operational needs and recommend appropriate solutions.
  • Review mechanical plans for new construction and renovation projects during the design phase to ensure consistency, compatibility, maintainability, and appropriate integration with existing campus systems.
  • Coordinate mechanical work with other Facilities personnel and campus departments to ensure effective scheduling and minimize disruption to College operations.
  • Coordinate planned mechanical system outages with College personnel, affected departments, and mechanical contractors.
  • Coordinate and oversee the work of outside mechanical contractors and service providers as assigned.
  • Assist with troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair activities as needed and provide technical guidance to operating engineers and other Facilities personnel.
  • Maintain appropriate records related to system operations, maintenance, repairs, labor, time, materials, equipment, and inventories.
  • Order and maintain HVAC and Heating Plant supplies, parts, and materials and monitor inventory levels.
  • Monitor Heating Plant expenditures and assist with budget development, purchasing, and long-term equipment planning.
  • Submit work progress reports, operational reports, and other documentation as required.
  • Ensure work is performed in compliance with applicable OSHA requirements, mechanical and building codes, environmental regulations, safety standards, and College policies and procedures.
  • Promote and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment and ensure appropriate safety practices are followed.
  • Remain current on changes in technology, equipment, codes, regulations, and best practices related to boilers, HVAC, mechanical systems, and building automation.
  • Respond to mechanical emergencies and system failures and coordinate appropriate corrective action to maintain safe and reliable campus operations.
  • Interact with faculty, staff, students, contractors, and other members of the College community in a professional, friendly, and cooperative manner.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

WEATHER AND EMERGENCY-ESSENTIAL: This position is designated as weather- and emergency-essential. In the event of a College closure or other emergency, the employee may be required to report to work when contacted by their supervisor to support critical campus operations. Appropriate compensation for work performed during a College closure will be provided in accordance with applicable College policy.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Work is performed in heating plants, mechanical rooms, campus buildings, and other areas where the employee may be exposed to heat, cold, noise, machinery, chemicals, electrical equipment, confined spaces, heights, and other mechanical or industrial hazards. The position may require lifting and moving equipment or materials and responding to emergency or after-hours situations.
Prerequisites
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Minnesota Chief Operating Engineer, Class C, License.
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Significant experience in the operation and maintenance of commercial, institutional, or industrial mechanical systems.
  • Extensive knowledge of boilers, steam distribution systems, chillers, chilled water systems, HVAC systems, and building automation/management systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot, operate, maintain, and repair complex mechanical systems.
  • Knowledge of applicable mechanical codes, safety standards, OSHA requirements, and regulatory requirements.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical plans, equipment specifications, schematics, and technical documentation.
  • Strong organizational, communication, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently, prioritize competing demands, and respond effectively to emergencies.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Technical degree, certificate, apprenticeship, or other formal training in HVAC, mechanical systems, stationary engineering, or a related field.
  • Experience in a higher education, institutional, commercial, or large-scale facilities environment.
  • Experience with Building Management Systems and energy management systems.
  • Supervisory or leadership experience, preferably in a facilities, mechanical, or skilled trades environment.

Gustavus offers competitive and comprehensive benefits which include:
  • Medical insurance (which includes access to Nice Healthcare) as well as dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Workplace accommodations for physical or mental health concerns
  • Onsite health services
  • Free parking, exercise classes, and use of library and athletic facilities
  • Paid parental leave
  • Employer contribution to retirement savings plan (after one year of employment)
  • Tuition scholarships for dependents
  • Tuition benefit plan for employees and spouse
  • 13 paid Holidays + generous PTO plan

Gustavus Adolphus College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status in its education or employment programs or activities.
Gustavus Adolphus College is one of the nation's leading private liberal arts colleges serving approximately 1,800 students. The College aspires to be a community of persons from diverse backgrounds who respect and affirm the dignity of all people. Known for its strong science, writing, music, athletics, study-away, and service-learning programs, Gustavus is located on a scenic 340-acre hill in St. Peter, Minnesota only one hour southwest of the Twin Cities.
Contact
Travis Jordan | tjordan@gustavus.edu | 507-933-7504
Posted: Thu Aug 20, 2026

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