1

Operating Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

The Engineer 2nd Class is responsible for operating and maintaining various components of the heating ventilation, air conditioning systems, laundry and dietary equipment. Repairs, installs, replaces ...

The Engineer 2nd Class is responsible for operating and maintaining various components of the heating ventilation, air conditioning systems, laundry and dietary equipment. Repairs, installs, replaces ...

This Operating Engineer role offers the possibility of advancing to an Assistant Chief Engineer position, with numerous opportunities for growth within the company. Responsibilities * Maintain and ...

Preferred: 3 years of experience with operating engineer/hospital maintenance. (UMC) LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS * Certification Name: Second Class Air Conditioning * Required * Issuer: City of New ...

MN · On-site

$41.04/hr

This position is a union position classified as MAINTENANCE ENGINEERS under an agreement with the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local No. 70 AFL-CIO. Work Schedule: FTE 1.0, 40 hours ...

Experience as a machine operator, programmer, or other technical role in metalworking with a strong sales personality. * Territory or account experience in manufacturing * Candidates from outside ...

Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$17.75 - $23.25/hr

... for operating engineers who are certified in Rough Terrain Forklifts and/or hold the CCO certification for Mobile Hydro-Cranes and Tower Cranes. This is a full-time hourly position with union pay ...

This is a full-time seasonal union position, membership in the Local 49 Operating Engineers is required - apprenticeship is available. Essential Functions * Performs preventative and routine ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Operating Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$35.3K

$83.3K

$132.2K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Minnesota is $83,278.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,100.00 and $92,100.00 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 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Operating Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in MN? For Operating Engineer jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,278 per year, or $40 per hour.
Assistant Chief Engineer

$44.45 - $61.35/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Position Summary The Assistant Chief Engineer works under the general direction of the Chief Engineer and is jointly responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the Energy Management Center (EMC) / central plant and other related equipment located on MAC campuses. This position assists in establishing operational procedures, scheduling, assigning, and supervising the work of operating engineers. This is a safety-sensitive position which will require a pre-employment drug screen.

To apply: Click the "Apply" link located above the position description, log-in and follow the instructions provided. Questions regarding this posting can be directed to Robin Lange at Robin.Lange@mspmac.org or 612-713-8725. Applications will be accepted until 3:00 p.m

on Monday, June 15, 2026. MAC complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If an accommodation is required for you to participate in the application process because of a disability, please contact Tekia Jefferson at 612-726-8196 or Tekia.Jefferson@mspmac.org

MAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender, age, nationality, or disability. Position Description Administration and System Maintenance Utilize technical expertise of high- and low-pressure boilers, turbines, various controls and heating and air conditioning systems. Research and order parts and supplies for preventative and corrective maintenance.

Monitor the operation of boilers, chillers, cooling towers, air handling and ventilating equipment at the terminal buildings and all other MAC buildings. Assist in preparing reports and maintaining records pertinent to the operation of the boiler and chiller plants throughout MAC campus. Order and schedule back up fuel deliveries for Terminal 1 and 2 boilers including reporting and documentation of fuel usage for state compliance and MAC Environment Department.

Administer established procedures, programs, and related duties in the absence of the Chief Engineer. Scheduling and Supervision Plan, schedule, assign and review the work of Operating Engineers and Trainees. Assign work orders for staff on computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

Coordinate annual boiler and pressure vessel inspection as required by State of Minnesota for compliance. Coordinate annual safety valve testing and replacement program as required by OSHA. Supervise and direct the repair of high- and low-pressure steam boilers, steam fitting equipment, condensers, compressors, turbines, and all related equipment.

Supervise and direct the repair and maintenance of chillers and air conditioning systems. Maintain current knowledge on environmental and energy conservation needs as related to boiler and chiller plant operations. Participate in the training of employees on a routine basis.

Participate in training and scheduling of training with outside vendors. Prepare and conduct performance recaps for Operating Engineers and Trainees. Participate on employment interviews.

Perform the duties of the Chief Engineer in their absence. Document and maintain Energy Management Center equipment assets. Identify and assign asset numbers to equipment in CMMS and building automation systems.

Develop procedures for operations and repair of machinery. Participate as a member of the MAC safety committee and airport safety meetings. Participate as the Chair for the Energy Management Center labor management committee.

Consultation Service - Boiler Plans and Related Equipment Estimate time, labor and material costs for repairs and alterations. Schedule and supervise repairs and demolition work. Consult with engineers on new construction, design, reviews, and modifications for all buildings on MAC property.

Review and approve mechanical construction permits and drawings through the permits management system. Review and modify MAC building construction standards. Attend and participate in construction and construction design meetings.

Coordinate with construction contractors to ensure proper construction and installation of EMC systems and equipment. Participate in EMC management after hours on-call rotation. Record Keeping Assist with training operating engineers in proper office procedure in compiling records, using testing equipment and schedules, and performing tests related to Energy Management Center operations.

Review and maintain records on fuel consumption, temperatures, pressures, steam, power refrigerant, and water usage. Review and approve Energy Management Center card access requests, mechanical key requests and payroll and scheduling changes. Write up purchase orders.

Oversee and conduct proper use and recordkeeping of MAC issued credit card transactions for Energy Management Center. Set up new accounts with outside vendors for purchasing of parts and supplies. Participate with the Chief Engineer on the annual budget preparation for Energy Management Center.

Maintain financial accountability with the Energy Management Center operating budget. Position Requirements COMPENTENCIES First Level Leader or Supervisor (FLL) Competencies Customer Focus - Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions Action Oriented - Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm Directs Work - Providing direction, delegating, and removing obstacles to get work done Ensures Accountability - Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments Drives Results - Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances Collaborates - Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives Manages Conflict - Handling conflict situations effectively, with a minimum of noise Values Differences - Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization Builds Effective Teams - Building strong-identity teams that apply their diverse skills and perspectives to achieve common goals Communicates Effectively - Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of unique needs of different audiences Drives Engagement - Creating a climate where people are motivated to do their best to help the organization achieve its objectives Courage - Stepping up to address difficult issues, saying what needs to be said Instills Trust - Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Possess current Chief A Operating Engineer License issued by the State of Minnesota - OR - have the ability and commitment to obtain within 6 months of appointment. At least 5 years of work experience in the operation and maintenance of HVAC systems that includes testing, inspection, dismantling, repairing, and reassembling boilers, chillers, air-conditioning systems, and related HVAC equipment.

Training and experience in the operation and maintenance of steam turbines. Thorough working knowledge of building automation systems for HVAC equipment. Possess a combination of experience and training in chemical treatment systems.

Ability to read and interpret blueprints, electrical schematics, and construction documents. Possess technical writing skills sufficient to produce technical procedures, instructions, and informational reports related to HVAC systems. Available for EMC management after hours on-call rotation in accordance with department schedule.

Ability to assume the duties of the Chief Engineer in their absence. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Experienced in the operation and maintenance of large power plant HVAC systems. Knowledge of MSP airport facilities and maintenance operations related to boilers, chillers, turbines, and general HVAC operational procedures.

Certification in air conditioning repair (Universal Technician level). One or more years of supervisory experience - OR - in lieu of the supervisory experience, MAC employees may attach a copy of their Supervisory Skills Development Program Certificate that was completed within the last 4 years. Three or more years of experience planning and scheduling staff, equipment repairs, and projects for a large heating and cooling facility.

Basic experience level with Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel or similar programs. Experience with a maintenance management software program. Other Information All employees of the MAC must receive an Airport Identification Badge.

More information on this process can be found on the Badging Office site including what forms of identification must be provided as well as a list of disqualifying crimes.