1

Chief Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DCO Systems Chief Engineer This role serves as the senior technical authority for data center critical infrastructure within Data Center Operations. You provide subject matter expertise across ...

Chief Operating Officer (COO) - Cedar Crest Hospital & Residential Treatment Center Cedar Crest ... Full continuum including detox, inpatient, residential, PHP, and outpatient programming * Diverse ...

Overview Chief Operating Officer (COO) - Cedar Crest Hospital & Residential Treatment Center Cedar ... Full continuum including detox, inpatient, residential, PHP, and outpatient programming * Diverse ...

As we transition from a lean engineering-heavy team to a global powerhouse, we need a Chief Operating Officer to build the engine that powers our growth. You won't just be managing-you will be ...

Position Overview As The Vilna enters a period of organizational growth - expanding programming, fundraising, staffing, and infrastructure - we are creating a new Chief Operating Officer (COO) role ...

... programming while supporting the Executive Director, and the Board of Directors to develop and ... The COO will work closely with the Head Start Director to ensure children and their families ...

COO

Cincinnati, OH

$175K - $200K/yr

Chief Operating Officer (COO) The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for the operational ... Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field ...

COO

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

Chief Operating Officer (COO) The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is responsible for the operational ... Bachelor's degree in Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Business, or related field ...

Reporting to the CEO, the COO will shape and execute the operational strategy across manufacturing ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or a related field; advanced degree (e.g ...

Chief Operating Officer (COO) San Francisco, CA (On-Site) | Open to LA or Austin, TX About Autzu ... with engineering to integrate AI-driven and agentic systems into operations • Oversee fleet ...

Chief Operating Officer (COO) San Francisco, CA (On-Site) | Open to LA or Austin, TX About Autzu ... with engineering to integrate AI-driven and agentic systems into operations • Oversee fleet ...

... programming while supporting the Executive Director, and the Board of Directors to develop and ... The COO will work closely with the Head Start Director to ensure children and their families ...

Chief Operating Officer (COO) San Francisco, CA (On-Site) | Open to LA or Austin, TX About Autzu ... with engineering to integrate AI-driven and agentic systems into operations • Oversee fleet ...

Chief Operating Officer (COO) San Francisco, CA (On-Site) | Open to LA or Austin, TX About Autzu ... with engineering to integrate AI-driven and agentic systems into operations • Oversee fleet ...

Chief Operating Officer (COO) San Francisco, CA (On-Site) | Open to LA or Austin, TX About Autzu ... with engineering to integrate AI-driven and agentic systems into operations • Oversee fleet ...

Chief Operating Officer (COO) San Francisco, CA (On-Site) | Open to LA or Austin, TX About Autzu ... with engineering to integrate AI-driven and agentic systems into operations • Oversee fleet ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Chief Operating Engineer information

See salary details

$30

$57

$84

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.

DCO Systems Chief Engineer

Switch

Austin, TX • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Location: Austin, TX

About Switch

At Switch, we don’t just design, build and operate data centers—we are enabling the technology of the future. Led by Founder & CEO, Rob Roy, we believe in revolutionary innovation, operational excellence and the principle of karma. Switch is where talented people come together to EVOLVE the digital world.

We believe that innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s about the people, culture, and purpose that make it happen. Every Switch team member contributes to a mission greater than themselves: to create the world’s most advanced digital infrastructure that powers the progress of humanity.

The Role: DCO Systems Chief Engineer

This role serves as the senior technical authority for data center critical infrastructure within Data Center Operations. You provide subject matter expertise across electrical, mechanical, environmental, and facility systems, and guide technical decision-making during incidents, commissioning, and design reviews. The role influences standards, procedures, and future deployments across campuses, without direct people management responsibilities.

What You’ll Do
  • Provide senior technical leadership for critical power, cooling, environmental, and facility systems.

  • Act as a technical liaison during event response, client escalations, and root cause analysis activities.

  • Participate in change advisory reviews and ensure infrastructure changes meet operational standards.

  • Support commissioning efforts, design reviews, and new equipment deployments across campuses.

  • Provide operational feedback to construction teams and vendors during project execution.

  • Lead technical problem-solving sessions to address recurring or complex infrastructure challenges.

  • Review and approve procedures for maintenance, safety programs, and OSHA compliance.

  • Develop and track infrastructure performance metrics and report findings to leadership.

  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives across DCO systems and processes.

  • Support automation efforts that improve efficiency and reduce operational risk.

  • Provide technical training related to arc flash safety, power systems, mechanical systems, and control sequences.

  • Support compliance audits and certification activities.

What We’re Looking For
  • Recognized technical authority in critical facility infrastructure.

  • Strong judgment during high-impact operational events.

  • Clear communicator across technicians, engineers, vendors, and executive stakeholders.

  • Ability to translate complex technical issues into actionable operational improvements.

  • Commitment to safety, compliance, and disciplined execution.

What You’ll Bring
  • 8 or more years of experience supporting or designing mission-critical electrical and mechanical systems in data center or comparable environments.

  • Advanced knowledge of systems such as generators, switchgear, transformers, UPS systems, ATS or STS units, PDUs, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, air handling units, and fire suppression systems.

  • Strong understanding of control systems and sequences of operation within critical environments.

  • Ability to interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, and electrical drawings.

  • Experience supporting commissioning, design reviews, and infrastructure deployment.

  • OSHA 30 certification required; additional relevant certifications preferred.

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering preferred, or equivalent practical experience.

  • Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.

Why Switch?
  • A Culture of Karma – We are self-motivated by karma, ensuring our actions contribute to a positive, supportive and forward-thinking environment.

  • Industry Leading Designs – Work with the most advanced data center technology on the planet and be a part of emerging technology development.

  • Flexibility & Remote Opportunities – Whether in-office, hybrid, or fully remote, we offer the technology and support to keep teams connected and productive.

  • Career Stability & Growth – In this expanding industry, we invest in our people, providing opportunities & advancement in a stable, growing company.

  • Generous Benefits Package - Switch provides medical plan options of comprehensive coverage for you and your family that can be tailored to fit your personal needs, and more!

Join Us & Make a Difference

This is more than a job—it’s a mission. If you’re ready to shape the technical standards that protect and power mission-critical infrastructure, we want to hear from you.

Apply Now and Let’s Build the Future Together.