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Operating Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

JOB SUMMARY The Operating Engineer maintains and operates all Boiler, Chilled water, Generator, Medical gas, medical vacuum, Domestic water, Air Handling including refrigeration, Hydronic Heating and ...

Operating Engineer

Mason City, IA

$67K - $91K/yr

JOB SUMMARY The Operating Engineer maintains and operates all Boiler, Chilled water, Generator, Medical gas, medical vacuum, Domestic water, Air Handling including refrigeration, Hydronic Heating and ...

Operating Engineer

Mason City, IA

$67K - $91K/yr

JOB SUMMARY The Operating Engineer maintains and operates all Boiler, Chilled water, Generator, Medical gas, medical vacuum, Domestic water, Air Handling including refrigeration, Hydronic Heating and ...

Operating Engineer

Des Moines, IA

$67K - $91K/yr

MalaceHR is seeking an experienced Operating Engineer to support the operation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of commercial building systems. This position is responsible for ensuring the safe ...

Heavy Equipment Operator

Johnston, IA · On-site

$43K - $55K/yr

OR satisfactory completion of a formal two-year apprenticeship as an Operating Engineer (Heavy Equipment); OR substitution of satisfactory completion of specialized training in operating heavy ...

It's your chance to join one of the country's longest operating engineering firms and a leader in local markets in design engineering and construction with over 700 employees in 22 offices around the ...

UX Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Translate customer and operator needs into actionable design recommendations and product ...

The developer will be creating robust operating system driven software for advanced displays in conjunction with the display systems team and product testing team. ** Note: This is not an embedded ...

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Translate customer and operator feedback into measurable product improvements. * Support product ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Davenport, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

Supv Fuel Handling

Clinton, IA · On-site

$133K - $148K/yr

Associates/non-technical 4-year degree/completion or a relevant, skilled trades apprenticeship program (e.g., boilermaker, pipefitter, operating engineer) with 7 years of industry experience or 5 ...

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Operating Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$33.8K

$79.9K

$126.8K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Iowa is $79,864.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,300.00 and $88,300.00 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 Iowa? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Operating Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in IA? For Operating Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,864 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Operating Engineer

Trinity Health

Mason City, IA • On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Trinity Health rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 354 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Employment Type:
Full timeShift:
Rotating Shift
Description:
JOB SUMMARY
The Operating Engineer maintains and operates all Boiler, Chilled water, Generator, Medical gas, medical vacuum, Domestic water, Air Handling including refrigeration, Hydronic Heating and cooling, Steam Distribution, Pneumatic Controls and associated component support systems. They must also have a working knowledge of sprinkler controls, fuel systems, and various other building systems and know how to access support personnel as necessary
ORGANIZATIONAL SUMMARY
A. Reports to: Engineering Supervisor B. Supervises: N/A C. Key Working Relationships: Engineering Staff, Environmental Services and all Department Customers D. Primary Customer Groups: Patients, Visitors and Staff E. Age/Population of Patients Served: Not Applicable
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
A. Operates, maintains and monitors high-pressure boilers and their support systems.
B. Operates, maintains and monitors chillers, chilled water and their support systems.
C. Operates, maintains and monitors all domestic water (hot/cold/hot water recirculating), and hydronic heating/cooling distribution equipment.
D. Operates, maintains and monitors all air handling systems.
E. Performs daily water testing and maintains proper chemical levels in all systems.
F. Proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing plant equipment
G. Acts in a professional manner reflecting the mission, philosophy and values of MercyOne North Iowa and the Sisters of Mercy.
H. Monitors and maintains medical vacuum, air, oxygen and other medical gas systems.
I. Keeps accurate and legible records.
J. Operates and monitors computerized building management and maintenance systems.
K. Monitors and maintains all generator systems.
L. Monitors and reacts to varying energy usage's in a prescribed manner.
M. Works well in both a team setting and alone.
N. Responds to the needs of patients, visitors, and staff in a prompt and professional manner.
O. Evaluates equipment operation and reacts to negative trends, in order to optimize efficiencies.
P. Participates in planning and implementing of either personal, departmental, or house wide process improvement initiatives as needed.
Q. Supports and abides by all medical center, departmental, and safety policies and procedures. Proactively identifies safety concerns surrounding the work environment
R. Maintains required department confidentiality and abides by HIPAA regulations.
S. Takes an active role in enhancing ability to carry out job functions through personal and professional/job-related growth and development and participates in medical center and/or departmental education programs.
T. Communicates with and performs duties following the philosophy of MercyOne North Iowa and the Sisters of Mercy reflecting the organization's Mission, Values, and Guiding Behaviors.
U. Performs other responsibilities as requested by supervisor, manager or department head.
ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS
A. Responds to Code White calls. B. Reacts to varied maintenance needs as they present themselves.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
A. Education [formal]: a. High school graduate with 3 years experience supporting industrial equipment or operating boiler systems b. OR, 2 year HVAC degree c. Must have or be able to, within a 12 month period, obtain a certified boiler operator license through the Iowa Association of Building Maintenance Engineers. B. Experience: C. Special Skills and Competencies: 1. Renews Mandatory Reporting requirement every 5 years. 2. Must be mechanically inclined. 3. Must be able to remain calm and think clearly in a stressful situation. 4. Must be computer literate. 5. Must have valid driver's license. 6. Must be able to wear appropriate mask and be fit tested on an annual basis
Must provide proof of Mandatory Reporting for Dependent Adult Abuse training prior to employment or within 6 months of hire and maintain current status per State of Iowa guidelines
Motor Vehicle:
__x___ MercyOne Vehicle [select this for positions required to drive a Mercy owned Vehicle] • If required to operate MercyOne vehicle, will need to have proof of and maintain valid driver's license on file with Human Resources. • Note any special licenses or requirements for MercyOne vehicle operation (i.e. CDL)
MACHINES, TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT
A. (List machines, tools and equipment that serve a major function of the job, use group titles of equipment, identify unique or specialized equipment.) • Boilers • Chilled Water • Generators • Med Vac and Gas • Domestic Water • Ahu Systems • Hydronic Systems • Steam Distribution • Pneumatic Control • Hand Tools • Power Tools • Patient Care Equipment • Plumbing Systems • Ladders • Lifting Equipment • Elevators • Diagnostic Equipment
Schedule
11pm-7am
Our Commitment
Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

What Trinity Health employees say

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About Trinity Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Trinity Health Ann Arbor is a 537 -bed teaching hospital located on 340 acre campus. Recognized by IBM Watson as a Top 100 Hospital and #1 Teaching Hospital, Trinity Health Ann Arbor has been a leading health care provider for more than 100 years. Trinity Health has received numerous local and national awards in recognition of our leadership, quality outcomes, and clinical excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US