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Operating Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

The CDU Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering support for operator display units, control interfaces, hardware/software integration, system interfaces, test events, configuration changes ...

The CDU Systems Engineer will provide systems engineering support for operator display units, control interfaces, hardware/software integration, system interfaces, test events, configuration changes ...

Reviews the adequacy of all standard operating procedures and quality control inspections generated on assigned projects to propose changes and provide engineering assistance in resolving ...

Develops engineering and operating standards and procedures in accordance with applicable federal, state and local regulations, including but not limited to pipeline safety, occupational safety and ...

Develops engineering and operating standards and procedures in accordance with applicable federal, state and local regulations, including but not limited to pipeline safety, occupational safety and ...

Controls Engineer

North Vernon, IN

$69K - $89K/yr

Create motivational programming prompts globally in all HMI displays to promote operator awareness & create a sense of urgency in reducing machine "wait" time. * Act as PLC Programming Subject Matter ...

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Operating Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$34.3K

$80.9K

$128.5K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Indiana is $80,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $89,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

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, sometimes requiring certifications or specialized training. Their role is essential in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or facilities management to support continuous operation.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced certifications, management responsibilities, or working in high-demand industries.

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior operating engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as HVAC or power plant licenses, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-paying roles often involve managing large facilities, working in critical environments, or overseeing complex systems, sometimes with overtime or shift differentials included.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in IN? For Operating Engineer jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Central Utility Plant Manager

Central Utility Plant Manager

DTE Energy

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


DTE Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 52 rated energy and utility


Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states. But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities. When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences, and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing. Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things.
Job Summary
Location: Indianapolis, IN
This position is responsible for overseeing, managing, and directing the day-to-day operation and maintenance activities for utility and energy-related assets within the newly constructed Cogeneration facility (cogen) located at the Ingredion facility located in Indianapolis Indiana. along with all other associated distribution infrastructure needed to supply Steam and Electrical power at the location.
Plant equipment includes the following: (2) 7.8 MW Solar Taurus 70 Gas Turbine Generators with associated 130 KPPH Heat Recovery Steam Generator's with Duct Burners economizers, deaerators, boiler feed water pumps, and condensate pumps. Balance of plant equipment includes air compressors, water treatment systems, pumps, filters, instrumentation, PLC controls and 15/5 kV, 480 V and 125 VDC electrical systems.
Upon Commercial Operation, the Plant Manager will be responsible for performing difficult and complex services requiring a high level of independent judgment, initiative, and discretion. Work is mainly self-directed, with work results reviewed through the achievement of set goals and adherence to policies and procedures.
Key Accountabilities
  • Provide weekly updates to the Regional Manager and Director of Operations throughout the cogen Startup process
  • Lead the interviewing and hiring of the site operations staff
  • Develop operating and safety procedures along with all other administrative tasks associated with a new plant startup
  • Participate in daily construction team meetings and oversee the quality of the cogen construction with an emphasis on the long-term operation of the facility
  • Ensure all appropriate commissioning and testing activities have been performed on the cogen's systems to facilitate a safe and efficient turnover from construction to operations
  • Work with the Controls Integrator and Commissioning Agents to optimize and tune the highly automated facility for reliable and efficient operation
  • Ensure that the utility assets are operated in a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner while ensuring all contract deliverables are met
  • Supervise and direct the daily activities of all plant staff, including the hourly workforce consisting of 4 Operating Engineers, and a Lead Operating Engineer
  • Directly manage 3rd party vendors and contractors
  • Understand and adhere to all commercial and contractual obligations
  • Act as the onsite liaison between the Company and the Customer
  • Ensure that all financial goals are met while maintaining a high level of plant reliability
  • Develop and manage annual O&M budget and cost-saving measures
  • Conduct employee safety training
  • Develop and maintain a close working relationship with all stakeholders including key customer personnel

Minimum Education & Experience Requirements
  • High School Diploma or equivalent and at least 7 years supervisory or managerial experience in the operation, maintenance and administration of powerhouses, utility systems, chemical processes, or similar plant assets, or
  • Associate's degree or industry-recognized certificate (i.e., the completion of a core group of course designated by the institution) in a related discipline and at least 5 years supervisory or managerial experience in the operation, maintenance and administration of powerhouses, utility systems, chemical processes, or similar plant assets, or
  • Bachelor's degree in a related discipline and at least 3 years supervisory or managerial experience in the operation, maintenance and administration of powerhouses, utility systems, chemical processes, or similar plant assets

Other Qualifications
  • An understanding of the technology utilized by the customer and how it relates to the commodities and services provided by DTE Vantage
  • Knowledge of the regulatory processes under which the facility operates
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Working knowledge of powerhouse equipment and systems, including but not limited to, gas turbines, steam boilers, , electrical distribution, heat exchangers, hot water distribution, chemical treatment equipment, transformers, motors, pumps, piping/valves, instrumentation, control systems, etc.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with an ability to communicate effectively at all levels of staff and management.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
  • Ability to develop and manage operating & maintenance budgets
  • Promote and maintain strong, positive relationships with coworkers, suppliers, contractors, vendors, and customers

Physical Demands & Working Conditions
The physical demands characterized here epitomize those that must be met by an employee to properly perform the integral functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. In order to properly perform the integral functions of this job, the employee is required to:
  • Occasionally reach with hands or arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, taste and smell
  • Frequently, the employee is required to stand, walk, and sit
  • Use hands and fingers and handle and talk and hear
  • Occasionally lift objects of up to 40 pounds in weight
  • Vision requirements for this position include close, distance and peripheral vision, along with depth perception

Work both in a business office setting and a plant site. Occasionally be exposed to outside weather conditions, including wet and/or humid conditions, and may work near moving mechanical parts and/or machinery. Occasionally be exposed to fumes or airborne particles and vibration. Be in a work environment that is usually moderate but may become loud at the plant site.
Additional Information
Incumbents may engage in all or some combination of the activities and accountabilities, and utilize a variety of the competencies cited in this description depending upon the organization and role to which they are assigned. This description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents in this job. It is not intended as an all-inclusive list of accountabilities or responsibilities, nor is it intended to limit the rights of supervisors or management representatives to assign, direct and control the work of employees under their supervision.
PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS
At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.

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