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Operating Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Valleyhealth

$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 ...

Performance Drone Works

Mechanical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real ...

Performance Drone Works

Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$115K - $155K/yr

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real ...

Performance Drone Works

Staff Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$185K - $225K/yr

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real ...

Performance Drone Works

Senior Software Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$155K - $195K/yr

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Loveland, CO · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Develop and lead training classes for customer personnel (machinery operators, engineers, technical support, etc.) Minimum Requirements Education BA/BS degree in engineering or related discipline ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Loveland, CO

$81K - $104K/yr

Develop and lead training classes for customer personnel (machinery operators, engineers, technical support, etc.) Minimum Requirements Education BA/BS degree in engineering or related discipline ...

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All JobsOperating Engineer JobsOperating Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Operating Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$37.9K

$89.4K

$142K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 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.

Where do Operating Engineers make the most money?

Operating Engineers tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with high construction activity, such as large metropolitan areas and states with significant infrastructure projects. Factors like experience, certifications, and specialization in heavy equipment or power systems can also influence earning potential.

What are Operating Engineers?

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced and specialized engineers, such as senior petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, or software engineers in senior or executive roles, can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience, and compensation may include bonuses and stock options.

What does an operations engineer do?

An operations engineer is responsible for managing and maintaining the systems, equipment, and infrastructure within an organization to ensure smooth and efficient operations. They often troubleshoot technical issues, optimize processes, and may work with tools like automation software or monitoring systems. The role typically requires technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and relevant certifications or experience in engineering or operations management.

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 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.

How much does an operating engineer make?

The average salary for an operating engineer in Texas is around $55,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry or employer. Operating engineers typically operate heavy machinery and may require a state license or certification, which can influence earning potential.
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:
Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,409 per year, or $43 per hour.

Stationary Engineer, Plant Operations, Per Diem, Day

Valleyhealth

On-site

$30.82 - $38.53/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
To operate and maintain high pressure steam boilers and ancillary equipment.
EDUCATION:
High school diploma or equivalent required.
EXPERIENCE:
3-5 years of applicable experience preferred.
SPECIAL SKILLS:
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 in a team environment and maintain an effective functioning team. Ability to pay attention to details, often changing from one task to another without loss of efficiency or composure. Ability to work independently with minimal supervisor. Effective problem-solving skills.

Job Location

The Valley Health System-Ridgewood

Shift

Day (United States of America)

Benefits

  • Medical/Prescription, Dental & Vision Discount Program (Full Time/Part Time Employees)
  • Group Term Life Insurance and AD&D(Full Time Employees)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts and Commuter Benefit Plans
  • Supplemental Voluntary Benefits ( e.g. Short-term and Long-term Disability, Whole Life Insurance, Legal Support, etc.)
  • 6 Paid Holidays, Paid Time Off (varies), Wellness Time Off, Extended Illness
  • Retirement Plan
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Valley Health LifeStyles Fitness Center Membership Discount
  • Day Care Discounts for Various Daycare Facilities
SalaryJoining Valley Health System means becoming part of a dedicated team that values the highest quality of care in a supportive environment. In our commitment to high performance and reliability, we encourage and recognize exceptional individual performance through our industry leading compensation practices including a starting salary and benefits in accordance with your role, experience, education, and licensure. Actual individual salaries vary depending on these factors. The salary listed does not include other forms of compensation or benefits.Pay Range: $30.82 - $38.53 (per hour)

EEO Statement

Valley Health System does not discriminate on the basis of ancestry, age, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, civil union status, color, creed, disability, domestic partnership, gender, gender identity or expression, familial status, genetic information, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, marital status, medical condition or illness, mental or physical handicap, national origin, nationality, perceived disability, pregnancy, race, refusal to submit to genetic testing or make available results of such tests, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran's status or any other protected basis, in accordance with all applicable Federal, State and Local laws. This applies to all areas of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training and development, promotion, transfer, termination, layoff, compensation, benefits, social and recreational programs, and all other conditions and privileges of employment.

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