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Operating Engineer Jobs in Ann Arbor, MI (NOW HIRING)

Wayne State University

Engineer - First Class

Detroit, MI · On-site

$37.18/hr

All Operating Engineers are considered to be "Essential Personnel," and are required to report during a university emergency closure period. Perform other duties as assigned. Qualifications: MINIMUM ...

EMAG LLC

Field Service Controls Engineer

Farmington, MI

$35 - $50/hr

... operators, programmers, and engineering teams on machine operation, controls, troubleshooting, and preventive maintenance. · Provide remote technical support to customers and internal service ...

Pae

Vehicle Battery Test Engineer

Detroit, MI

Configuring/Operating/Programming Lynx site automation systems and supplemental site controls and I/O to achieve fully automated testing and 100% error detection/response * Reviewing and sign-off of ...

Amentum

Vehicle Battery Test Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

Configuring/Operating/Programming Lynx site automation systems and supplemental site controls and I/O to achieve fully automated testing and 100% error detection/response * Reviewing and sign-off of ...

EPMA

Facilities Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

Serve as a trusted engineering resource for clients operating complex facilities. * Provide technical recommendations supporting facility performance, operational efficiency, manufacturing ...

New

dmsmanufacdet

Manufacturing Engineer

Detroit, MI

$72K - $93K/yr

Work with and effectively communicate with operators on the floor as well as DMS Management. * Lead engineer on P702 IP and Center Console (CC) Wire harness. * Work with P702 IP and CC quality and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOperating Engineer JobsOperating Engineer Jobs in Ann Arbor, MI

Operating Engineer information

See Ann Arbor, MI salary details

$35.2K

$83.2K

$132.1K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Ann Arbor, MI is $83,186.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $92,000.00 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.

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 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.

How much do operating engineers make in the US?

Operating engineers in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Skilled operators with certifications and experience can earn higher salaries, especially in construction, power plants, or heavy industrial environments.

Is an operating engineer hard to get into?

Becoming an operating engineer typically requires completing technical training, obtaining relevant certifications, and gaining experience with heavy machinery. Entry can be competitive, especially for union positions, but proper training and licensing improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Ann Arbor, MI?

The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Ann Arbor, MI are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Ann Arbor, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Ann Arbor, MI are:

What cities near Ann Arbor, MI are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ann Arbor, MI with the most Operating Engineer job openings:

Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Ann Arbor, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,186 per year, or $40 per hour.

Engineer - Second Class

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$29.95/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Wayne State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Engineer - Second Class
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Engineer - Second Class at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
Essential functions (job duties):
POSITION PURPOSE
To perform skilled work in the repair, operation and maintenance of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and mechanical equipment in assigned area.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Operate and monitor environmental systems for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, water, lighting and fire protection. Access units in windows, on rooftops, above ceilings, behind walls, in crawl spaces or closets, etc.; use appropriate safety precautions, which may include wearing a ventilator; ensure consistency with design specifications and energy guidelines.
Check and repair pumps, condensate tanks, valves, water heaters, sump pumps, reducing stations, swimming pool equipment, boilers and plumbing systems. Access equipment which may be at any height and in any location on campus; troubleshoot equipment; obtain and install replacement parts to ensure efficient operation; work with hand tools at any angle. Clean all plenum chambers, fans, boiler rooms and other areas designated for heating and ventilation use.
Clean and change air filters. Access filter chambers which may be located at any height and angle with cumbersome boxes containing replacement filters; adjust and replace belts on equipment. Control flow by opening and closing gate, globe and/or butterfly valves; respond to emergencies such as floods, fires, equipment failures, etc. and perform necessary repairs.
Perform preventive maintenance on equipment. Troubleshoot mechanical equipment; make necessary repairs to ensure proper environmental temperature and maximize service life of equipment; manipulate equipment using hand tools to access parts.
Respond to calls for service. Open and close dampers; generate work orders to have additional work done and follow through on its completion.
All Operating Engineers are considered to be "Essential Personnel," and are required to report during a university emergency closure period.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
High school graduate or equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Graduate of Stationary Engineer Trade School or recognized apprentice program.
Possession of Second Class Steam Engineer's license from the City of Detroit.
Some related experience in pipe fitting and general maintenance.
Refrigeration experience desirable.
Some experience on HVAC system controls.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints.
Ability to access equipment which may be at any height and angle from below ground level to several stories high.
Ability to work in varying environmental and possible hazardous working conditions utilizing appropriate safety precautions.
Must obtain security clearance.
School/College/Division:
H42 - Facilities Plan & Manage
Primary department:
H4241 - Facilities Operations Zone 1
Employment type:
  • Regular Employee
  • Job type: Full Time
  • Job category: Staff/Administrative
Funding/salary information:
  • Compensation type: Hourly Wage
  • Hourly rate: $29.95
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 3
  • Reposted position: Yes
  • Reposted reason: Supercedes Previous Requisition
  • Prior posting/requisition number: Req750
Background check requirements:
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
Equal employment opportunity statement:
Wayne State University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, familial status, marital status, height, weight, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. The university welcomes applications from persons with disabilities and veterans. Wayne State is an equal opportunity employer.

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