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Operating Engineer Jobs in Kennewick, WA (NOW HIRING)

TriOptus LLC

Software Engineer

Richland, WA · On-site

Software Engineer Location: Remote Contract Duration: Sep 2023 - Aug 2024 Scope of Work: This ... The work will include maintaining and operating existing business information systems, working with ...

Umatilla Electric Cooperative

Engineer I-III

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$108K - $181K/yr

This Engineering position will be responsible to maintain working knowledge of the UEC substations, transmission, and distribution systems, including design and equipment specifications and operating ...

Umatilla Electric Cooperative

Engineer I-III

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$108K - $181K/yr

This Engineering position will be responsible to maintain working knowledge of the UEC substations, transmission, and distribution systems, including design and equipment specifications and operating ...

Umatilla Electric Cooperative

Engineer I-III

Hermiston, OR · On-site

$108K - $181K/yr

This Engineering position will be responsible to maintain working knowledge of the UEC substations, transmission, and distribution systems, including design and equipment specifications and operating ...

BlupaceUS LLC

Desktop Support Engineer

Kennewick, WA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Desktop Support Engineer Location: Kennewick, WA 99336 (Onsite) Requirements: * 2+ years of ... Strong knowledge of Windows 10/11 operating systems and endpoint support. * Hands-on experience ...

Pae

Criticality Safety Engineer

Richland, WA · On-site

Collaborate with operating organization personnel on NCS evaluations as the lead NCS Analyst ... Bachelor's degree in nuclear, engineering, math, or science with minimum of 4-5 years of Nuclear ...

New

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Prosser, WA

$97K - $116K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Burbank, WA

$96K - $116K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Milton Freewater, OR

$89K - $107K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Richland, WA

$103K - $123K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Pasco, WA

$99K - $119K/yr

... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ... shipyard issues; frequent coordination with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and ...

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All JobsOperating Engineer JobsOperating Engineer Jobs in Kennewick, WA

Operating Engineer information

See Kennewick, WA salary details

$36.5K

$86.2K

$136.8K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Kennewick, WA is $86,175.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,400.00 and $95,300.00 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.

Is an operating engineer hard to get into?

Becoming an operating engineer typically requires completing technical training, obtaining relevant certifications, and gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions. The job can be competitive, but with proper training and skills in equipment operation and safety protocols, entry is achievable for qualified candidates.

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 cities near Kennewick, WA are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities near Kennewick, WA with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Kennewick, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,175 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Engineer III - Component Center Process Engineer

Framatome North America

Richland, WA • On-site

$110K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Why This Role Is Critical
As the need for nuclear energy grows, the future couldn't be brighter. Join our vital mission to create lasting solutions for our planet's greatest challenges. In this role, you are ready to shape the future of clean energy and make a long-lasting global impact. With us, anticipate engaging and challenging projects that deliver innovative solutions and value-added technologies helping power more than 38 million North American homes.
What You'll Do Day-To-Day
  • Performs non-standard engineering, varied engineering, and new-to-you assignments typically in areas of design, development, analysis, evaluation, testing, preparation of specifications, execution of field tasks and resolution of field problems and resolution of quality events.
  • Receives minimal assistance and instruction and works autonomously on most assignments and solutions.
  • Ensures compliance with government regulations, organization, industry and customer engineering standards.
  • Independently evaluates, selects and applies a variety of technical techniques, procedures, and criteria using judgement in making adaptations and modifications for tasks not previously performed.
  • Continues to develop knowledge of organization, processes and customers.
  • Works on special projects, as directed.
  • Provides suggestions for improving processes and implementing process improvements.
  • Maintain a safety mindset.

Preferred Skills
  • Expertise in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and technical drawing interpretation
  • Expertise with assembly, jigs, fixture and automation integration
  • Expertise in root cause and analysis and corrective actions
  • Cross functional communications with operators, programmers, quality, management and customers
  • CNC and machining process understanding
  • Continuing improvement initiative and process optimization and statistical analysis
  • Experience with welding
  • Understanding of material and standards

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering
    • Dependent on the position, degrees in Physics, Engineering Technology and Engineering Science may also be accepted.
  • Minimum of 3 years of related experience.
  • Knowledge of related engineering standards, techniques and criteria.
  • Good communication skills to comprehend and convey detailed technical data.
  • Ability to develop and maintain good interpersonal relationships; work collaboratively within a team environment.
  • Good problem identification and problem resolution skills.
  • Displays informal leadership characteristics.
  • Exhibits questioning attitude and practices self-checking.
  • Advanced proficiency with specialized software tools and programming languages as required by the role.

Total Rewards Package
Total Rewards Package
  • Salary: $110,000 - $121,000, and may also include annual incentives and performance bonuses. The base salary range is a guideline. Individual total compensation will vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location.
  • Health & Wellness: Multiple medical plan options, dental & vision coverage, life insurance, long- and short-term disability, and optional supplemental plans (critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity, dependent life).
  • Retirement: 401(k) with employer match.
  • Paid Time Off: Up to 3 weeks of vacation, 8 sick days, and 13 paid holidays annually.
  • Extra Perks: Lifestyle spending account, employer paid mental health support, education reimbursement, professional development opportunities, adoption assistance, parental leave, and employee assistance programs.

About Framatome
Framatome has been shaping the future of nuclear energy in the U.S. for more than 60 years. Framatome Inc. is headquartered in Lynchburg, Virginia, with more than 2,400+ employees across North America supporting nearly every nuclear plant in the nation.
From our facilities in Virginia, Washington, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and beyond, we deliver outage services, advanced nuclear fuel technologies, and next-gen reactor innovations that keep the lights on.
At Framatome, you will join a global team committed to creating reliable, carbon-free energy. Here, you can:
  • Solve complex nuclear challenges that directly impact the climate.
  • Build your career through technical fellowships, leadership roles, and global opportunities.
  • Do your best work in a culture that values safety, innovation, and well-being.

Framatome is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Offers are contingent on background check and drug screen (where applicable). Positions may involve access to information subject to U.S. export control regulations; applicants must meet eligibility requirements (see DOE 810 Appendix A).

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