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Operating Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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Operating Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$36.3K

$85.8K

$136.3K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Wisconsin is $85,824.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,200.00 and $94,900.00 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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin? For Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in WI? For Operating Engineer jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,824 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Lead Manufacturing Engineer - Engine Assembly - Jenbacher Engines

INNIO

Waukesha, WI

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

About INNIO Group:
INNIOGroupis aglobaldistributed energy solutions provider that delivers reliable, flexible, transient, decentralized,modularand efficient power.Witha track recordofinnovation, INNIO designs, manufactures and services highperformance power systemsunder its Jenbacher and Waukesha brands.The company delivers power for applications including data centers, microgrids, grid stabilization, industrialenergyand gas compression.
INNIO operates a global installed baseacross approximately100 countriesas of December 31, 2025, supported by a resilient, highmargin services business that delivers longterm, recurring revenues across the full equipment lifecycle. As electricity demand accelerates-driven by AI,electrificationand grid constraints-INNIO enables scalable, behindthemeter power generation with high efficiency, fast start capability, strongtransientperformanceand fuel flexibility, including hydrogenready solutions. INNIO employsover5,000 people worldwide and is committed to moving energy forward.

We are looking for a Lead Manufacturing Engineer - Engine Assembly to be responsible for implementing and validating established Jenbacher manufacturing processes from the production plant in Jenbach into the new engine production startup in Waukesha. This role supports the successful transfer, localization, and rampup of assembly processes to ensure the Waukesha plant can reliably produce new Jenbacher engine products. The engineer will work closely with global Jenbacher engineering and operations teams to understand existing processes, adapt them to the Waukesha environment, and ensure production readiness.

What You'll Do:

  • Implement established Jenbacher assembly processes into the new Waukesha production plant.
  • Localize global process standards, work instructions, PFMEAs, and routings to fit Waukesha equipment, layout, and workforce needs.
  • Support installation, commissioning, and operational readiness of production equipment based on Jenbacher requirements.
  • Conduct firstrun trials, capability checks, and process validation to confirm process performance meets global standards.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues during ramp-up and collaborate with Jenbach-site process experts as needed.
  • Coordinate with Facilities, Maintenance, and vendors to ensure tooling, fixtures, and stations match established process expectations.
  • Analyze workflows and recommend localized improvements to efficiency, ergonomics, and material flow while maintaining process intent.
  • Provide operator and maintenance training using transferred global documentation and best practices.
  • Prepare process readiness reports, capability summaries, and updates for project stakeholders.
  • Communicate status, risks, and requirements across global and local engineering, quality, operations, and EHS teams.

What You'll Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of manufacturing engineering experience.
  • Experience with assembly and/or machining of heavy industrial equipment.
  • Proficiency in CAD software and ability to interpret complex technical drawings and schematics.
  • Working knowledge of GD&T principles.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.

What Will Help You Stand Out

  • Strong collaborator who works effectively across global and local teams.
  • Selfdriven, accountable, and comfortable working in a fastpaced startup environment.
  • Able to influence and support change adoption without direct authority.
  • Strong problem-solving ability and organizational skills; capable of coordinating multiple moderate projects simultaneously.
  • Effective communicator with the confidence to work across operators, engineers, and senior leadership.

Additional Details:

  • Location: Waukesha, WI
  • Work Schedule: Onsite 5 days per week (m-f).
  • Travel: Up to 20% travel, with the greatest demand at the start of the role-including approximately one month in Jenbach-then decreasing over time.
  • Visa Sponsorship: This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship now or in the foreseeable future.

#ManufacturingEngineering #ProcessEngineering #AssemblyEngineering #ProcessTransfer #EngineManufacturing

Employment Type: Experienced

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