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Operating Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Current Stationary Engineer certification or applicable operating engineer license required. * Minimum of ten (10) years of facilities maintenance experience. * Minimum of five (5) consecutive years ...

Current Stationary Engineer certification or applicable operating engineer license required. * Minimum of ten (10) years of facilities maintenance experience. * Minimum of five (5) consecutive years ...

Local Operating Engineer's License or Trade License, Systems Maintenance Administrator (SMA) • Familiar with Energy Management System (EMS) programming and fire alarm systems • Basic Computing ...

$30.82 - $38.53/hr

Valid Blue Seal Operating Engineer License certified by the State of New Jersey. Good interaction and communications skills to include verbal and written. Good organizational skills. Ability to work ...

Project Engineer (Chief Engineer) - Central Utility Plant Location: Boulder, CO Position Summary ... Review alarms, operating trends, meter readings, chemical logs, preventive maintenance records, and ...

Project Engineer (Chief Engineer) - Central Utility Plant Location: Boulder, CO Position Summary ... Review alarms, operating trends, meter readings, chemical logs, preventive maintenance records, and ...

Project Engineer (Chief Engineer) - Central Utility Plant Location: Boulder, CO Position Summary ... Review alarms, operating trends, meter readings, chemical logs, preventive maintenance records, and ...

Project Engineer (Chief Engineer) - Central Utility Plant Location: Boulder, CO Position Summary ... Review alarms, operating trends, meter readings, chemical logs, preventive maintenance records, and ...

Stationary Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$52 - $62/hr

Stationary Engineer - Central Utility Plant Location: Boulder, CO Position Summary LAUKOA is ... Maintain required operating and standby equipment configurations and immediately report operational ...

Stationary Engineer - Central Utility Plant Location: Boulder, CO Position Summary LAUKOA is ... Maintain required operating and standby equipment configurations and immediately report operational ...

Stationary Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$52 - $62/hr

Stationary Engineer - Central Utility Plant Location: Boulder, CO Position Summary LAUKOA is ... Maintain required operating and standby equipment configurations and immediately report operational ...

Stationary Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$52 - $62/hr

Stationary Engineer - Central Utility Plant Location: Boulder, CO Position Summary LAUKOA is ... Maintain required operating and standby equipment configurations and immediately report operational ...

Showing results 21-40

Operating Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$37.9K

$89.4K

$142K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Colorado is $89,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $98,800.00 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.

Is an operating engineer hard to get into?

Becoming an operating engineer typically requires completing technical training, obtaining relevant certifications, and gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions. The job can be competitive, but with proper training and skills in equipment operation and safety protocols, entry is achievable for qualified candidates.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Colorado? For Operating Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in CO? For Operating Engineer jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,409 per year, or $43 per hour.

Geotechnical Driller (Operating Engineer)

Schnabel

Aurora, CO

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

THE COMPANY:

Schnabel is a nationally recognized specialty contractor with over 65 years of experience in geostructural design-build and underground construction. With a portfolio of thousands of successful projects across the country, we are known for delivering smart, safe, and cost-effective solutions to complex engineering challenges. We specialize in advanced earth retention systems and other innovative geostructural techniques that create stable, lasting foundations for buildings, infrastructure, and other critical structures. At Schnabel, we combine technical expertise with a hands-on approach to ensure every project starts on solid ground.

ROLE:

Schnabel is seeking an Operating Engineer to assist with the building of specialty underground structures. Our goal is to find a Geotechnical Drill Operator or equipment operator with experience in the safe operation of tieback and micropile drills (Klemm, Comacchio, Hutte) related to geotechnical construction. Heavy preference to those that can operate vertical drill rigs (Bauer / Liebherr).

As a driller you will work with your project manager and field supervisor to install tieback anchors, soldier beams, micropiles, and more.

Our typical scope of work includes installation of piles, lagging, walers, tiebacks, and braces for support of excavation projects. We also take on challenging projects with underpinning, grouting, tunneling, and unique structural support as part of our scope. Candidates having direct construction experience and familiarity with our company’s traditional scope of work are preferred.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Be responsible for safe and proper operation or drill rigs and associated equipment.
  • Follow all of Schnabel’s safety regulations.
  • Complete inspection and maintenance logs, and documentation as required.
  • Record drilling parameters, production data, and daily progress reports, while maintaining open and clear communication to job site supervisor.
  • Clean drill rigs, trucks, and equipment.
  • Clear and maintain a clean work environment without debris or potential hazards.
  • Work closely with site leadership to ensure that scope of work is being met within a timely schedule and meeting production rates.
  • Manage your scope of work appropriately to minimize job cost.
  • Always wear appropriate PPE, as assigned by job site supervisor.
  • Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and dust.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Minimum of 2 years of documented experience operating drill rigs proficiently.
  • High level of focus in a construction environment that is very busy and noisy.
  • Current certification for vertical and/or tieback drill rig or willing to obtain certification.
  • Focus, stand, walk, kneel, climb, bend, and work from heights or within confined space during assigned shift.
  • Ability to pass pre-employment drug test.
  • Local and regional travel as required for projects.
  • Ability to lift and carry 50 pounds of materials over rough terrain.
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Driver’s license, reliable transportation, and a safe driving record.
  • Follow all safety procedures, use proper protective equipment, and help maintain a safe job site by identifying and reporting potential hazards.

SAFETY:

Support the company’s safety and risk management objectives by adhering to established procedures, proactively identifying and addressing potential risks, and contributing to the achievement of safety goals through the use of metrics and continuous improvement efforts.

Don’t hurt yourself, don’t hurt anyone else, and don’t let anyone hurt you; a simple philosophy that has been adopted at Schnabel. We live by this belief to provide a safe and healthy workplace for all our employees and subcontractors.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Ranges $30.00 - $47.00+ per hour

Schnabel is a union contractor and as such, your benefits are made available based on your union affiliation. Through hard work and reliability there will be opportunities to advance within the company.

Schnabel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is fully committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws. We are an E-Verify employer.