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Operating Engineer Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

Engineer III

Spokane, WA · On-site

$101K - $155K/yr

You will be directly responsible for engineering and construction at solid waste disposal ... operating sites. This will include representing WM in permit meetings, hearings, and site ...

Engineer III

Spokane Valley, WA · On-site

$101K - $155K/yr

You will be directly responsible for engineering and construction at solid waste disposal ... operating sites. This will include representing WM in permit meetings, hearings, and site ...

Engineer III

Spokane Valley, WA · On-site

$101K - $155K/yr

You will be directly responsible for engineering and construction at solid waste disposal ... operating sites. This will include representing WM in permit meetings, hearings, and site ...

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer

Spokane, WA · On-site +1

$140K - $200K/yr

Regional Lead - Rail Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location ... Build and strengthen relationships with clients, railroad operators, public agencies, and industry ...

Die-Casting Engineer 2

Spokane, WA · On-site

$43.74 - $72.89/hr

... Casting Engineer to join our team in Spokane, WA. This position supports advanced manufacturing ... Assure that machines and equipment are kept in a safe operating condition. * Create Preventative ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Spokane, WA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Operating coast to coast, Stratus ® serves clients nationwide while maintaining a strategic ... Position will be assigned as structural engineering lead for projects and will be responsible for ...

... Casting Engineer to join our team in Spokane, WA. This position supports advanced manufacturing ... Assure that machines and equipment are kept in a safe operating condition. * Create Preventative ...

Nuclear Engineer

Blanchard, ID

$96K - $115K/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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Millwood, WA

$98K - $118K/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 ...

Process Engineer

Spokane, WA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Process Engineering Manager FLSA STATUS: Exempt SUPERVISES: N/A Benefits * Salary range $80,000 ... There is exposure to operating machinery and a manufacturing environment. PHYSICAL DEMANDS * This ...

Process Engineering Manager FLSA STATUS:Exempt SUPERVISES:N/A Benefits * Salary range $80,000 ... There is exposure to operating machinery and a manufacturing environment. PHYSICAL DEMANDS * This ...

Nuclear Engineer

Newport, WA

$107K - $129K/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 ...

Nuclear Engineer

Reardan, WA

$106K - $127K/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 ...

Process Engineering Manager FLSA STATUS:Exempt SUPERVISES:N/A Benefits * Salary range $80,000 ... There is exposure to operating machinery and a manufacturing environment. PHYSICAL DEMANDS * This ...

Applications Engineer - WA

Spokane, WA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Applications Engineer Responsibilities: Software : * Calibrating ZOLLER image processing software ... Operating system hardware and software to demonstrate tool presetters and analyze malfunctions

Control Systems Engineer

Spokane, WA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

... from operators * Interact with electrical engineers and staff members to identify, define, and ... resolve design or performance issues with products. * Troubleshooting issues with hardware ...

Showing results 41-60

Operating Engineer information

See Spokane, WA salary details

$36.4K

$86K

$136.5K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Spokane, WA is $85,974.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,300.00 and $95,000.00 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 Spokane, WA?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Spokane, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,974 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Engineer III

WM

Spokane, WA • On-site

$101K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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


Waste Management rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 650 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 91 rated recycling and waste


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE PROVIDED


I. Job Summary
This position requires an engineer with significant experience in the environmental and solid waste industry. The ideal candidate will possess superior problem solving and management skills that will be applied to a diverse portfolio of technical projects. You will be directly responsible for engineering and construction at solid waste disposal facilities, will communicate with senior management, and direct and mentor junior staff. You will be continually challenged to use your knowledge and skills to advance WM's status as the leader, and innovator, in providing comprehensive waste management services to a variety of clients.
II. Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Engages, directs, and manages professional consulting firms that perform a variety of work tasks at solid waste facilities, such as preparing permit applications and construction plans, conducting site monitoring, preparing regulatory submittals, etc. Will be responsible for final work product.
  • Maintains a strong working relationship with regulators and serve as a direct line of communication on technical and permitting matters between regulatory agencies and operating sites. This will include representing WM in permit meetings, hearings, and site inspections. Act as a professional representative for WM as a community liaison, at technical conferences and other forums
  • Manages landfill construction projects from overseeing the preparation of construction plans to final approval. Tasks will include managing consultants, contractors and budgets, preparation of bid documents, bid letting, contract administration, coordinating contractors, construction quality assurance firms, and materials order and delivery.
  • Actively manages and tracks capital budgets for engineering and construction projects and report to local management and corporate using Company procedures.
  • Coordinates landfill capacity tracking to help manage this key asset. This will include developing airspace calculations and completing capacity projections; as well as working with landfill managers to develop efficient fill sequencing plans and schedules for cell construction and closure timing
  • Provides continuous evaluation of sites for adherence to construction and permit documents and for site expansion potential through regular site visits. Be proactive in pursuing and obtaining required or beneficial permits and/or permit modifications.
  • Collaborates with other professionals and subject matter experts within WM to provide innovative, cost effective engineering solutions to identified or potential operational, environmental, and compliance issues at landfills, transfer stations, hauling operations and other businesses in your area and potentially across the Company. Provide technical expertise and direction to management and other functional areas such as finance, legal and safety to present a clear path to resolution.
  • Participates in review of acquisitions and coordination and evaluation of divestitures, including proforma modeling assistance and interaction with corporate and executive management during due diligence.
  • Assists in training and provides mentorship and supervision of WM technical staff assigned to your team.


III. Qualifications
A. Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, or similar area of study
  • 5 years of related experience


B. Preferred Qualifications
IV. Physical Requirements
Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Work in landfill

Pay: The expected base pay range for this on-site position is $101,535 - $155,000. This range represents a good faith estimate fort his position. The specific salary offered to a successful candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate’s relevant experience, education, training, certifications, qualifications, and work location.
V. Benefits
At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and Short Term Disability. As well as a Stock Purchase Plan, Company match on 401K, and more! Our employees also receive Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Personal Days. Please note that benefits may vary by site.

If this sounds like the opportunity that you have been looking for, please click Apply.


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About WM

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Environmental consulting services and water, sewage, waste, steam, air heating and cooling systems

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US