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Operating Engineer Jobs in Southfield, MI (NOW HIRING)

... operating, monitoring, and performing routine maintenance, in a safe and environmentally responsible manner, on all equipment located within a Central Utilities plant. Engineers will operate and ...

... operating, monitoring, and performing routine maintenance, in a safe and environmentally responsible manner, on all equipment located within a Central Utilities plant. Engineers will operate and ...

International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) completion of high-pressure boiler operator program or completion of low-pressure boiler operator program including a water chemistry course

International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) completion of high-pressure boiler operator program or completion of low-pressure boiler operator program including a water chemistry course

... operating/programming a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) and various other measurement equipment in an automotive manufacturing plant. The work requires practical skill and knowledge as a CMM ...

... operating/programming a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) and various other measurement equipment in an automotive manufacturing plant. The work requires practical skill and knowledge as a CMM ...

... operating machinery and systems in a cost-effective manner. A Chief Engineer is a senior-level professional who oversees the planning, organizing, and daily operations of an organizations building ...

Showing results 21-40

Operating Engineer information

See Southfield, MI salary details

$33K

$78K

$123.8K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Southfield, MI is $78,002.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,800.00 and $86,200.00 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 Southfield, MI?

For Operating Engineer jobs in Southfield, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Southfield, 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 $78,002 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Operating Engineer Level 4

DTE Energy

Detroit, MI

$44.90/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


DTE Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

DTE is one of the nation's largest diversified energy companies. Our electric and gas companies have fueled our customer's homes and Michigan's progress for more than a century. And as Michigan's largest source of renewable energy, we're creating a cleaner, healthier environment to power our future. We're also serving communities beyond Michigan, where our affiliated businesses offer renewable energy, emission control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states.  But we're more than a leading energy company... and working at DTE is more than just a job. At DTE, we take great care of each other and our customers, and we use our energy to be a force for growth and prosperity in our communities.  When you join us, you'll be part of a team that welcomes, recognizes, and celebrates differences, and values everyone's health, safety, and wellbeing.  Are you ready to make that kind of difference? Bring your energy to DTE. Together, we can achieve great things. The hourly rate for this position is $44.90.

Job Summary

Detroit, MI

This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, and performing routine maintenance, in a safe and environmentally responsible manner, on all equipment located within a Central Utilities plant. 
Engineers will operate and maintain chillers, hot water generators and associated equipment which consist of the following.
Hot water generators with 30 MM Btuh total heating capacity, supported by magnetic bearing chillers providing 2,800 tons of refrigeration. The chilled water system uses 1,200 GPM pumps per chiller and supported by forced draft Tower Tech cooling towers. Monitoring power distribution 13.2 kV paralleling double ended switchgear, and system monitoring via a Metasys BMS. Backup power is supplied by two 2,000 kW generators ensuring full emergency capability. HVAC equipment for the utility plant, and all other equipment associated with the facility operation as directed.[JC1.1]
Work is performed under direct supervision with results reviewed through the achievement of set goals and adherence to policies, procedures, and industry best practices. 

Key Accountabilities
  • Identify unsafe acts or conditions; eliminate/mitigate hazards immediately where possible and notify affected personnel and supervisor
  • Safely operate plant equipment to meet the day to day demands of the customer's facility
  • Record and analyze plant operational data and operation of facility systems to maximize equipment efficiency and reliability
  • Understand plant systems as a whole and the interdependencies of equipment and operator input on function and performance
  • Respond to abnormal and emergency operating situations in a safe and reasonable manner
  • Perform routine housekeeping duties and general clean-up of the facility and immediate surrounding area
  • Perform maintenance on all facility equipment including predictive, preventative, corrective, and emergency maintenance. These activities include lubrication, filter replacement, tube brushing, equipment cleaning, painting, equipment tear down, inspection and re-build, etc.
  • Record and document all maintenance activities that are performed on facility equipment. This may include utilizing a computer-based maintenance management program to electronically document information and historical data
  • Follows all Company safety/environmental rules and regulations including LOTO, confined space, fall protection, electrical safety, chemical safety, and fire safety
  • Provide on-call support for emergency and contingency situations
  • Shift work is required, and employees will be required to perform both operation and routine maintenance of the facility equipment
Qualifications
  • A high school diploma or GED, City of Detroit 1st Class Refrigeration Operator license and at least a 3rd Class Steam license are required
  • Four years' experience in plant operations, including two years' operating a centralized chilled water system preferred
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisor, coworkers, management, and the general public preferred
  • Knowledge of basic water chemistry is desired
  • Knowledge of power plant mechanical and electrical equipment, including chillers, motors, pumps, water treatment systems, electrical distribution, control systems, etc., and associated maintenance functions preferred
  • Ability to operate valves, switches, controls, keyboards, and other devices associated with power plants preferred
  • Knowledge of and ability to understand fundamental principles related to physics, mathematics, electrical theory, heat transfer and fluid flow, thermal dynamics, and chemistry preferred
  • Ability to use basic hand tools, portable electric and pneumatic tools, and basic lifting equipment such as chain hoists, davits, slings, and hydraulic cranes preferred
  • Ability to learn and become proficient in all site-specific systems and sub-systems preferred
Additional Qualifications

The physical demands characterized here epitomize those that must be met by an employee to properly perform the integral functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. In order to properly perform the integral functions of this job, the employee is required to:

  • Frequently sit, stand, walk or climb and occasionally stoop, kneel or crawl.
  • Reach with hands or arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, taste and smell.
  • Talk and hear; use hands and fingers to handle or feel.
  • Occasionally lift objects of up to 50 pounds in weight.
  • Frequently lift objects of up to 10 pounds in weight.
  • Possess the following vision requirements: close, color, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Work both in a business office setting and at a plant site.
  • Occasionally be exposed to outside weather conditions, including wet and/or humid conditions, and extreme heat.
  • Be near moving mechanical parts and/or machinery.
  • Occasionally be exposed to fumes or airborne particles and vibration.
  • Be in a work environment that is usually quiet to moderate in the office but may become loud at the plant site.

Incumbents may engage in all or some combination of the activities and accountabilities, and utilize a variety of the competencies cited in this description depending upon the organization and role to which they are assigned. This description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by incumbents in this job. It is not intended as an all-inclusive list of accountabilities or responsibilities, nor is it intended to limit the rights of supervisors or management representatives to assign, direct and control the work of employees under their supervision.


PRIVACY NOTICE TO CALIFORNIA JOB APPLICANTS 
 

At DTE Energy, we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome and a sense of belonging. We seek individuals with a heart for service, a passion to help our communities prosper, and ideas to help shape the future of energy. We are proud to be an equal opportunity, employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, national origin, citizenship, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, protected veteran status or any other status protected by applicable federal and/or state laws.


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