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Operating Engineer Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

CenTrio

Operating Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$26.78/hr

Job Summary The Stationary Engineer (Plant Operator) will be a key member of Baton Rouge/LSU Plant Operations reporting directly to the Director of Operations. They are responsible for the day to day ...

CenTrio

Operating Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$26.78/hr

Job Summary The Stationary Engineer (Plant Operator) will be a key member of Baton Rouge/LSU Plant Operations reporting directly to the Director of Operations. They are responsible for the day to day ...

J H Operating Company LLC

Be Seen First

Senior Pipeline Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$165K - $195K/yr

J H Operating Company, LLC (JH) is an engineering, procurement, and construction firm serving the upstream and midstream oil and gas industry. JH delivers practical, buildable solutions for oil ...

J H Operating Company LLC

Be Seen First

Senior Pipeline Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$165K - $195K/yr

J H Operating Company, LLC (JH) is an engineering, procurement, and construction firm serving the upstream and midstream oil and gas industry. JH delivers practical, buildable solutions for oil ...

J H Operating Company LLC

Be Seen First

Senior Pipeline Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$165K - $195K/yr

J H Operating Company, LLC (JH) is an engineering, procurement, and construction firm serving the upstream and midstream oil and gas industry. JH delivers practical, buildable solutions for oil ...

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All JobsOperating Engineer JobsOperating Engineer Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Operating Engineer information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$28.2K

$66.7K

$105.9K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Baton Rouge, LA is $66,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $73,700.00 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 popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Operating Engineer jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Operating Engineer job openings:

Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,709 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Operating Engineer

CenTrio

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$26.78/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Who is CenTrio?
CenTrio is a fully integrated, innovative and sustainable energy services provider to a wide range of industries such as higher education & healthcare campuses, cities, and communities. It serves more with utility infrastructures serving more than 170+ million square feet of space and operations in 10 cities across the United States and growing. In each community, the company operates highly efficient and innovative utility infrastructures that produce and distribute electricity, steam, hot water and/or chilled water to customer buildings and campuses. Customers connected to these systems enjoy multiple benefits including reduced operating costs, lower emissions and unmatched reliability.
CenTrio is a wholly owned subsidiary of a global Infrastructure Investment Consortium with unmatched financial wherewithal and manages a portfolio of long-life, high quality infrastructure assets with high barriers to entry that generate stable and growing cash flows.
Job Summary
The Stationary Engineer (Plant Operator) will be a key member of Baton Rouge/LSU Plant Operations reporting directly to the Director of Operations. They are responsible for the day to day operations, repair and maintenance support duties and troubleshooting of the central utility plant and building mechanical systems.
The successful candidate will be a self-starter that enjoys working in a fast-paced environment, strong commitment to deadlines and team, is process oriented with a high sense of ownership in their work, possesses a high degree of intellectual curiosity, and has superior foundation in the maintenance and troubleshooting of central heating and cooling plants.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Develop competency in operations of existing plant facilities to ensure that unplanned outages are minimized. Make recommendations to the Operations Supervisor or Lead Operating Engineer to enhance reliability and plant performance.
  • Work with the Operations Supervisor and Lead Operating Engineer to perform maintenance programs and procedures.
  • Develop an understanding of troubleshooting of the plant, distribution system, interface systems and energy transfer stations. Work in a safe manner while following applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Follow plant operational procedures to ensure the accomplishment of plant production goals. Monitor and report on system performance to meet or exceed plant production goals.
  • Investigate, take corrective action, and report on plant outages in an effort to minimize impact to customer services. Manage outage timetables that optimize cost effectiveness while insuring reliability.
  • Develop proficiency as a plant operator in conjunction with cultivating skills in the calibration and troubleshooting of automation, power, and interface systems.
  • As the shift schedule dictates, will be available on a 24-hour basis, to assist in emergency situations and fill vacancies in the shift rotation as directed by the Operations Supervisor.
  • Track and log operational system status using applicable journals and control system tools. Understand system-operating requirements, identify trends, perform routine analysis and make recommendations for operating adjustments.
  • Perform maintenance and repairs on building mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems.

Skills & Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED is required. Additional studies and courses in a technical discipline would be a plus. Training, licenses, or certifications in plant operations considered advantageous.
  • 1st, 2nd, or 3rd Grade Stationary Engineers license required.
  • One (1) to five (5) years' experience in operations, maintenance and troubleshooting of central heating and cooling plants.
  • Highly professional ethical standards are expected.
  • Basic understanding of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems is expected.
  • Experience with large scale plant automation, startup, commissioning, and energy management activities is a plus.
  • Experience in a service-oriented environment preferred. Highly analytical with great attention to detail.
  • Demonstrated strong communication skills.
  • Collaborative and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work in a dynamic, complex, fast-paced environment, to adapt quickly and to manage changing priorities.
  • Must be self-motivated and proactive to seek methods to change and /or enhance plant environment. Willing to work any hours necessary to assure plant operations are conducted in a reliable method.
  • Must have a valid Louisiana Driver's License.

Why Join CenTrio?
CenTrio offers a dynamic and friendly work environment, dedicated to nurturing a topnotch team culture! Additionally, CenTrio offers an array of fabulous benefits and perks.
  • Starting wage is $26.78 per hour, with potential to increase up to $29.87 based on experience
  • Medical Benefits first day of hire
  • Medical, dental, vision, Life & AD&D benefits
  • Option of supplemental Life & AD&D benefits
  • Company paid High Deductible Healthcare Benefit Plan
  • 401k plan with % match
  • Training Opportunities and career progression
  • Competitive salaries that reflect the value of skills and experience
  • Dynamic and friendly work environment in a rapidly expanding industry with a national presence
  • Remote, Hybrid, and In Office schedules available dependent on job responsibilities
  • 24-hour Employee Assistance Program/Hotline
  • Corporate discounts (Travel, Entertainment, Home, Auto, Apparel, Health and Wellbeing, and other various retail options)

Conditions of Employment:
  • Successful completion of Criminal Background Check and Drug Test
  • Valid Louisiana Driver's License
  • This position is based at CenTrio's plant located on campus of Louisiana State University (LSU). Smoking and tobacco use are prohibited on all LSU land, property, buildings, and facilities. CenTrio will decline to hire individuals who use nicotine products.
  • All certifications/licenses must be up to date

Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)
CenTrio maintains a steadfast commitment to a proactive safety culture, with HSE being a collective responsibility throughout the organization. Your HSE accountability also encompasses:
  • Promote, ensure, and maintain a safe and healthy environment for your fellow workers and yourself so that everyone goes home injury-free
  • Work in compliance with the provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Industrial Regulations, Environmental Protection Act and Regulations and HSE policies, programs, and procedures
  • Responsible for identifying and reporting workplace HSE hazards and concerns to your supervisor immediately and providing solutions (if aware of any) to address these concerns as requested
  • Immediate reporting of all work-related injuries/illness to your supervisor
  • Adhere to various PPE requirements of the position which may include hearing protection, eye protection, hand protection, steel toe footwear, head protection, fall-protection, respirators (half-face and full-face)

DISCLAIMER
The preceding position description is intended to provide the general nature and level of work to be performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to be a detailed description of the position or be interpreted as a comprehensive listing of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required for this position.
DIVERSITY STATEMENT
We know that our greatest strengths come from the people who make up our team. CenTrio is committed to the creation and nurturing of a diverse community of individuals through inclusive excellence. Diversity involves recognizing the value of differences and the inclusion of all members of the community including those that experience discrimination or under representation. This is a core value of the organization as we strive for a culturally diverse work force that reflect the multicultural nature of the nation and our world and bring unique strengths and abilities which contribute to CenTrio.

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