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Operating Engineer Jobs in Dearborn Heights, 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 ...

Aampower

CNC Lathe Operator/Programmer

Warren, MI

Job Posting Title CNC Lathe Operator/Programmer Summary AAM is hiring for a CNC Lathe Machinist with Programming experience for Prototype Machining Facility in Warren Michigan for 2nd shift. Second ...

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 ...

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All JobsOperating Engineer JobsOperating Engineer Jobs in Dearborn Heights, MI

Operating Engineer information

See Dearborn Heights, MI salary details

$33.2K

$78.4K

$124.5K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Dearborn Heights, MI is $78,426.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $86,700.00 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 cities near Dearborn Heights, MI are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Dearborn Heights, MI with the most Operating Engineer job openings:

Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Dearborn Heights, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,426 per year, or $37.7 per hour.

Engineer - Third Class

Wayne State University

Detroit, MI • On-site

$29.39/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 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 - Third Class
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Engineer - Third 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 operation and maintenance of heating, ventilating and mechanical equipment in assigned area.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Check buildings to ensure proper temperatures are maintained. Access all public areas in buildings, including classrooms, offices, stairwells, hallways, restrooms, etc. to determine comfort level; set and/or reset thermostats as necessary; turn ventilation equipment on and off as appropriate.
Monitor all pumps, condensate tanks, valves, water heaters, reduction valves, swimming pool equipment, boilers and plumbing systems. Access equipment which may be at any height and in any location on campus; work with hand tools and at any angle. Clean all plenum chambers, fans, boiler rooms and other areas designated for heating and ventilation use.
Make running repairs on equipment as necessary. Replace stems and seats on all valves and traps up to one inch in size; control flow by opening and closing gate, globe and/or butterfly valves.
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. Respond to calls for service.
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.
Training in Stationary Engineer Trade School or recognized apprentice program.
Possession of Third Class Steam Engineer's license from the City of Detroit.
Some related experience in pipefitting and general maintenance.
Refrigeration experience preferred.
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 condition 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: $29.39
  • Salary minimum: N/A
  • Salary hire maximum: N/A
Job openings:
  • Number of openings: 2
  • Reposted position: Yes
  • Reposted reason: Supercedes Previous Requisition
  • Prior posting/requisition number: Req751
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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