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Operating Engineer Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

Kean University

Operating Engineer 1

Union, NJ

$50K - $68K/yr

Office of Facilities Operating Engineer I Under the supervision of the Engineer-in Charge, Chief Operating Engineer and/or Facilities Management, responsibilities include the maintenance and ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Voorhees, NJ · On-site

$71K - $96K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for the assigned property(s)

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Voorhees, NJ · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for the assigned property(s)

Rutgers University

Operating Engineer II

Newark, NJ · On-site

$36.12/hr

Position Details Position Information Recruitment/Posting Title Operating Engineer II Job Category Staff & Executive - Facilities/Environmental/Maintenance Department Facilities Utilities UW Overview ...

JLL

Data Center Operating Engineer

Totowa, NJ

The Operating Engineer supports the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of assigned properties by performing hands-on maintenance, repairs, and inspections of building systems. This role focuses ...

RWJBarnabas Health

Chief Engineer

Belleville, NJ · On-site

$32.75 - $34.47/hr

RWJBarnabas Health is hiring for a Chief Engineer - Boiler Operator Blue Seal at the Clara Maass Medical Center Facility. This is a Full-Time, Days position. Operate and maintain stationary engines ...

RWJBarnabas Health

Chief Engineer

Belleville, NJ · On-site

$32.75 - $34.47/hr

RWJBarnabas Health is hiring for a Chief Engineer - Boiler Operator Blue Seal at the Clara Maass Medical Center Facility. This is a Full-Time, Days position. Operate and maintain stationary engines ...

RWJBarnabas Health

Chief Engineer

Belleville, NJ · On-site

$32.75 - $34.47/hr

RWJBarnabas Health is hiring for a Chief Engineer - Boiler Operator Blue Seal at the Clara Maass Medical Center Facility. This is a Full-Time, Days position. Operate and maintain stationary engines ...

RWJBarnabas Health

Chief Engineer

Belleville, NJ · On-site

$32.75 - $34.47/hr

RWJBarnabas Health is hiring for a Chief Engineer - Boiler Operator Blue Seal at the Clara Maass Medical Center Facility. This is a Full-Time, Days position. Operate and maintain stationary engines ...

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All JobsOperating Engineer JobsOperating Engineer Jobs in New Jersey

Operating Engineer information

See New Jersey salary details

$36.5K

$86.3K

$137.1K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in New Jersey is $86,324.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,600.00 and $95,400.00 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 popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in New Jersey? For Operating Engineer jobs in New Jersey, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in New Jersey look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in New Jersey are:
What cities in New Jersey are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in New Jersey with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in NJ? For Operating Engineer jobs in NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in New Jersey as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,324 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Operating Engineer 1

Operating Engineer 1

Kean University

Union, NJ

$50K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

External Applicant Instructions

  • Please upload your resume/CV for automatic population of information to your Kean application.
  • Your contact information, work experience and education will be automatically filled in. Please review all fields - you will need to verify that the data is accurate.
  • In the "My Experience" section, you will find a resume/CV upload option where you can submit your cover letter and any other supporting documents you may wish to submit.

Office of Facilities

Operating Engineer I

Under the supervision of the Engineer-in Charge, Chief Operating Engineer and/or Facilities Management, responsibilities include the maintenance and operation of various steam plant systems throughout the University campus, including high pressure steam boilers, low pressure steam boilers and related auxiliary equipment; and performing related work as required.

Operating Engineers may be exposed to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions. Essential job functions include the ability to walk long distances both indoors and outside; standing for long periods; the ability to climb stairs, bend and stoop; lifting, pushing or pulling of objects up to 50 pounds; and driving.

The employee will be required to pass a four (4) month Working Test Period to become eligible for a regular appointment. This position requires a flexible schedule.

Qualifications: An appropriate Operating Engineer's license (Blue Seal minimum) of the appropriate grade, issued by the New Jersey Department of Labor; driver's license valid in the State of New Jersey; and two (2) years of experience in work involving the operation and repair of heating plants and auxiliary equipment is required. Candidate must have knowledge of the various types of boilers, engines, motors, and auxiliary equipment used in power and heating plants and the methods of proper use, care, adjustments and maintenance. Strong electrical and plumbing skills preferred.

Candidacy review begins immediately and continues until appointment is made. Please submit your cover letter, resume/CV and contact information for three professional references. Official transcripts are required prior to the starting date of employment.

In compliance with New Jersey's Pay Transparency Law, the negotiated annual salary range for this position is: $50,539.44 to $68,816.48 (Steps 1-9). Salaries for internal applicants will be based on union negotiated calculations. This position may also be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental insurance, a retirement plan and benefits for work life balance. For a full overview of our benefits offerings, please refer to our Kean University Benefits website.

SAME Program Applicants: If you are applying under the NJ State as a Model Employer "SAME" Program, your supporting documents (Schedule A or B letter), must be submitted along with your application materials by the closing date indicated above. For more information on the NJ SAME Program visit their website at: https://nj.gov/csc/same/overview/index.shtml, email: CSC-SAME@csc.nj.gov or call the Civil Service Commission at (609)-292-4144, option 3. You may also contact Kean's Recruiting Team at SAME@kean.edu.

Attention current Kean University employees (including part-time Student Assistants, Graduate Assistants, Academic Specialists and Adjuncts): Please apply via the internal career site to ensure consideration as an internal candidate. To apply internally, please log into your Workday account and select the Career icon on your homepage to view available positions.

Additional Information Kean University complies with the New Jersey First Act(Senate Bill No. 1730, P.L. 2011, Chapter 70). Any individual newly hired by Kean University will be required to abide by this law and establish a principal residence in New Jersey. New employees will have a full 365 days to establish such residence, from the effective date of hire.In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position, please refer to Section III.A. of ourReasonable Accommodations Policy & Procedures.Mission StatementKean University, New Jersey's first Urban Research University, creates a world-class, innovative and inclusive society through equity and excellence in teaching, learning, global research, and impactful public engagement.EEO/AA StatementKean University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer

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