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Operating Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Staff AI Product Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$220 - $293/hr

Experience building and operating developer-facing platforms used by large numbers of engineers or customers * Proven ability to define the provisioning contract other teams onboard onto: typed ...

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Sr. Water Quality Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$68.52 - $79.78/hr

Working closely with operators, engineers, planners, and project teams, you'll bring expert insight to daily operations, major capital initiatives, and emergency response. Reporting to the Water ...

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Electrical Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$136K - $165K/yr

Wilson Engineering is seeking an Electrical and/or Controls System Engineer to join our team. We ... Work with public agency staff, operators, contractors, vendors, utilities, and regulatory agencies.

Sr. Water Quality Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$68.52 - $79.78/hr

Working closely with operators, engineers, planners, and project teams, you'll bring expert insight to daily operations, major capital initiatives, and emergency response. Reporting to the Water ...

CNC Programmer

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$82K - $130K/yr

This role collaborates closely with machinists, operators, engineering, and quality teams to improve manufacturability, maintain product quality, and enhance overall production capability.

CNC Programmer

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$82K - $130K/yr

This role collaborates closely with machinists, operators, engineering, and quality teams to improve manufacturability, maintain product quality, and enhance overall production capability.

Job details Domain Production Job field / Job profile Manufacture assembly and repair - Assembly Job title CNC Router Operator / Programmer Employment type Permanent Professional category Employees ...

Job details Domain Production Job field / Job profile Manufacture assembly and repair - Assembly Job title CNC Router Operator / Programmer Employment type Permanent Professional category Employees ...

Refrigeration Technician

Seattle, WA · On-site

$28.50 - $39/hr

Journey Refrigeration Mechanic License or Refrigeration Operating Engineer License (SDIC) * Universal HVAC EPA 608 Certification (required for refrigerant handling) * HVAC/Refrigeration technical or ...

Electrical Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

... operating on jobsites around the world. We replace manual, repetitive, and high‑risk work with ... Electrical engineering is a critical part of these systems. Our autonomy hardware includes compute ...

Forward Deployed Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$143 - $165/hr

As a Forward Deployed Engineer, you'll be embedded directly inside our customer organizations, operating as part of their team while remaining tightly connected to Istari's product and engineering ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $157K/yr

You would also be responsible for QA/QC construction documents, provide design ideas and solutions, and train or mentor other Designers, Operators or Engineers. Your Impact: Develop and modify Revit ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$112K - $148K/yr

You would also be responsible for QA/QC construction documents, provide design ideas and solutions, and train or mentor other Designers, Operators or Engineers. Your Impact: Develop and modify Revit ...

Showing results 41-60

Operating Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$41K

$96.8K

$153.6K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Seattle, WA is $96,765.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,100.00 and $107,000.00 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 Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Operating Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Operating Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,765 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

CNC Application Engineer (Seattle)

Unify Recruit

Seattle, WA • On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Position Overview:

A leading manufacturing solutions provider is seeking a highly experienced CNC Applications Engineer with a strong background in part processing, Fanuc CNC controls, and CAM programming using Mastercam or Esprit. This role is crucial in supporting process development, machine optimization, and technical customer support for high-precision machining operations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Part Processing Development:
  • Interpret part drawings and develop comprehensive machining strategies including tooling, workholding, and efficient operation sequencing.
  • CNC Programming & Optimization:
  • Generate, modify, and refine CNC programs using G-code, M-code, and CAM-generated output, ensuring high accuracy and process efficiency.
  • Fanuc Controls Expertise:
  • Troubleshoot, configure, and fine-tune programs and operations on Fanuc-controlled CNC equipment.
  • Technical Customer Support:
  • Provide remote and on-site support to customers for troubleshooting, training, and process validation during installations and upgrades.
  • Machine Setup & Validation:
  • Assist with machine setup, prove-outs, and first-article inspections to ensure part accuracy and adherence to specifications.
  • CAM Software Utilization:
  • Create toolpaths and NC code using CAM software (preferably Mastercam or Esprit) for a variety of CNC machines including multi-axis.
  • Process Improvement:
  • Identify and implement opportunities to reduce cycle times, enhance surface finishes, and extend tool life through process refinement.
  • Documentation:
  • Maintain detailed and accurate documentation of machining processes, programs, and tooling setups.

Required Qualifications:

  • 5–10 years of experience in CNC machining, part processing, and programming.
  • Strong working knowledge of Fanuc CNC controls and G/M code.
  • Proficiency in CAM software (preferably Mastercam or Esprit).
  • Deep understanding of machining practices, tooling, speeds/feeds, and materials.
  • Ability to collaborate across teams and support customer-facing technical work.
  • Strong communication and documentation skills.
  • Able to train operators, programmers, or customers on processes and best practices.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with multi-axis CNC machines and turning centers.
  • Exposure to automation and robotics in CNC manufacturing environments.
  • Degree or technical certification in Manufacturing Technology, CNC Programming, or Mechanical Engineering.

Work Environment:

  • Combination of office-based engineering and hands-on work on the shop floor.
  • Occasional travel to customer sites for training, support, and machine setup.

Benefits:

  • Competitive compensation and performance-based bonuses
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Support for continuing education and training
  • Clear opportunities for career advancement in a fast-paced technical environment