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Operating Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Pittsburgh

Operating Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA

$67K - $91K/yr

The Operating Engineer is responsible for properly operating all mechanical systems; for performing selected preventive and corrective maintenance duties as directed; for monitoring and operating ...

University of Pittsburgh

Operating Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

Essential Functions The Operating Engineer is responsible for properly operating all mechanical systems; for performing selected preventive and corrective maintenance duties as directed; for ...

KASA Construction Inc.

Operating Engineer

Chino, CA

$70K - $95K/yr

Operating Engineer Full KASA Construction Inc., one of Southern California's leading heavy-civil construction engineering companies, is seeking a skilled and experienced heavy equipment operator to ...

American

Operating Engineer

Campus, IL

$37.25 - $41/hr

Operating Engineering 1 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality: Full On Campus Presence Union: Excluded Summary: The Operating Engineer, under the direction of ...

Spydr Llc

Operating Engineer

Salisbury, NC · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

As an Operating Engineer, you will be maintaining and repairing equipment both on- and off-site as needed, keeping repair logs, and tracking all equipment changes and needs. You will also log any ...

Spydr Llc

Operating Engineer

Salisbury, NC · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

As an Operating Engineer, you will be maintaining and repairing equipment both on- and off-site as needed, keeping repair logs, and tracking all equipment changes and needs. You will also log any ...

California State University

Operating Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

Operating Engineer Job no: 552019 Work type: Staff Location: Chico Categories: Unit 6 - Teamsters Local 2010, Probationary, Full Time, Trades Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:

Spydr Llc

Operating Engineer

Salisbury, NC · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

As an Operating Engineer, you will be maintaining and repairing equipment both on- and off-site as needed, keeping repair logs, and tracking all equipment changes and needs. You will also log any ...

JLL

Operating Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

The Operating Engineer is responsible for the operations, maintenance, and repair of building systems and equipment. This includes managing routine and emergency plant operations, such as main ...

Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc.

Operating Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

The Operating Engineer is responsible for the operations, maintenance, and repair of building systems and equipment. This includes managing routine and emergency plant operations, such as main ...

New

California State University

Operating Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

Operating Engineer Apply now Job no: 552019 Work type: Staff Location: Chico Categories: Unit 6 - Teamsters Local 2010, Probationary, Full Time, Trades Position Description Our Commitment to Equity ...

California State University

Operating Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

Operating Engineer Apply now Job no: 552019 Work type: Staff Location: Chico Categories: Unit 6 - Teamsters Local 2010, Probationary, Full Time, Trades Position Description Our Commitment to Equity ...

Research Medical Center

Operating Engineer

Overland, KS · On-site

Introduction Do you have the career opportunities as an Operating Engineer you want with your current employer? We have an exciting opportunity for you to join Research Medical Center which is part ...

Pae

Operating Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$49.12/hr

* Amentum has an Operating Engineer (HV Shop) position opening at our Springfield, VA location. The licensed Operating Engineer operates and Maintains one or more systems that provide an establishment ...

kgs

Operating Engineer

Arlington, VA

$80K - $108K/yr

The Operating Engineer will serve as a senior-level licensed professional responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of complex building mechanical systems. This position requires a high ...

Research Medical Center

Operating Engineer

Lenexa, KS · On-site

Introduction Do you have the career opportunities as an Operating Engineer you want with your current employer? We have an exciting opportunity for you to join Research Medical Center which is part ...

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How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in the United States is $85,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating engineer?

Operating Engineers are skilled professionals who operate and maintain heavy machinery and equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, commonly used on construction sites and in other industrial settings. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of this equipment, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and sometimes assisting with repairs. Operating Engineers play a critical role in the successful completion of construction and infrastructure projects by helping move materials, clear land, and perform tasks that require mechanical power.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operating engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operating Engineer, you need expertise in operating, maintaining, and repairing complex machinery, often backed by a high school diploma, technical training, and relevant licenses or certifications. Familiarity with control systems, heavy equipment, and safety protocols—such as OSHA standards—is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment, minimize downtime, and help maintain a secure work environment.

What are some common challenges operating engineers face when managing multiple pieces of equipment on a job site?

Operating Engineers often juggle the operation and maintenance of several types of heavy machinery, such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, which requires strong multitasking and organizational skills. A common challenge is coordinating equipment use efficiently to avoid downtime and bottlenecks, particularly on busy construction sites with tight schedules. Additionally, they must remain vigilant about safety protocols and equipment inspections to prevent accidents or mechanical failures. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is crucial to ensure a smooth workflow and address any issues promptly.

What is the difference between Operating Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectOperating EngineerMaintenance Technician
CredentialsOSHA certifications, state licenses, technical trainingOSHA certifications, technical/vocational training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power plants, large facilitiesBuildings, manufacturing plants, facilities maintenance
Employer & IndustryConstruction, utilities, manufacturingFacilities management, manufacturing, commercial buildings

Operating Engineers and Maintenance Technicians often share certifications and work in industrial or large facility environments. Operating Engineers focus on operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment, while Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and preventive maintenance of building systems. Both roles are essential for facility operations, but their specific duties and focus areas differ.

How much do operating engineers make in the US?

Operating engineers in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Skilled operators with certifications and experience can earn higher salaries, especially in construction, power plants, or heavy industrial environments.

Is an operating engineer hard to get into?

Becoming an operating engineer typically requires completing technical training, obtaining relevant certifications, and gaining experience with heavy machinery. Entry can be competitive, especially for union positions, but proper training and licensing improve job prospects.
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Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,029 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Operating Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA

University of Pittsburgh
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees
Learn more about University of Pittsburghexternal

$67K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

The Operating Engineer is responsible for properly operating all mechanical systems; for performing selected preventive and corrective maintenance duties as directed; for monitoring and operating building automation system hardware, software, sensors, and components. The incumbent will be responsible for the operation, preventive and corrective maintenance for all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. This position requires a minimum class 4 City of Pittsburgh Power Engineers License or equivalent NIULPE, Universal CFC Certification, preferred five years' experience as a licensed stationary or operating engineer: a minimum of three years' experience monitoring and operating building automation systems controlling a large and complex physical plant. Computer-based energy management systems and DDC control experience preferred. Incumbent must be mobile around campus, be able to lift 50 pounds, crawl into confined spaces including manholes and utility tunnels as well as maneuver around small areas and be able to lift equipment and supplies.

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