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Operator Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$106.74/hr

Learn more about American University Department Operating Engineering 1 Time Type Full time Job Type Regular FLSA Status Non-Exempt Work Modality Full On Campus Presence Union Excluded Summary The ...

Operating Engineer

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$77 - $85/hr

Operating Engineering 1 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality: Full On Campus Presence Union: Excluded Summary: The Operating Engineer, under the direction of ...

Operating Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

Essential Functions The Operating Engineer is responsible for properly operating all mechanical systems; for performing selected preventive and corrective maintenance duties as directed; for ...

$77 - $85/hr

Operating Engineering 1 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality: Full On Campus Presence Union: Excluded Summary: The Operating Engineer, under the direction of ...

Operating Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$64K - $87K/yr

Essential Functions The Operating Engineer is responsible for properly operating all mechanical systems; for performing selected preventive and corrective maintenance duties as directed; for ...

Operating Engineer

Campus, IL ยท On-site

$37.25 - $41/hr

Operating Engineering 1 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality: Full On Campus Presence Union: Excluded Summary: The Operating Engineer, under the direction of ...

Operating Engineer

Chino, CA

$70K - $95K/yr

... operator to join our team. We are looking for a skilled Operating Engineer to operate heavy and specialty equipment on public works and heavy construction projects. This includes work on highways ...

Operator - Madison

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Operating Engineer embodies the company culture, SQE, and delivers results accordingly. Operating Engineers must be able to control and operate a variety of heavy equipment in a safe and efficient ...

Field Engineer

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Serve as a Chief Operator/Engineer for assigned broadcast station(s), meticulously fulfilling all regulatory responsibilities. * Critical Site Management & Extensive Field Presence: * Conduct ...

Operator

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Operating Engineer embodies the company culture, SQE, and delivers results accordingly. Operating Engineers must be able to control and operate a variety of heavy equipment in a safe and efficient ...

Operator

Oak Creek, WI ยท On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Operating Engineer embodies the company culture, SQE, and delivers results accordingly. Operating Engineers must be able to control and operate a variety of heavy equipment in a safe and efficient ...

Showing results 41-60

Operator Engineer information

See salary details

$36K

$85K

$135K

How much do operator engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator engineer in the United States is $85,029.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operator engineer?

Operator Engineers are professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex machinery and systems in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and telecommunications. They ensure that equipment runs efficiently and safely, performing routine inspections and making adjustments as needed. Operator Engineers often work alongside other technical staff to diagnose issues and optimize system performance. Their role is critical in minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operations within their facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an operator engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operator Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, process operations, and safety protocols, often supported by a relevant engineering degree or technical certification. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA, DCS, and industrial automation software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in monitoring operations and coordinating with teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and reliable operation of industrial systems.

What are some common challenges operator engineers face when working with automated systems, and how can they be addressed?

Operator Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex automated equipment, managing unexpected system failures, and ensuring consistent production quality. Addressing these issues typically involves staying updated with the latest technology, maintaining clear communication with maintenance and engineering teams, and following standardized operating procedures. Continuous training and hands-on experience are essential for quickly diagnosing problems and minimizing downtime, making adaptability and teamwork crucial skills in this role.

What is the difference between Operator Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectOperator EngineerMaintenance Technician
Required CredentialsRelevant certifications, technical training, sometimes an engineering degreeTechnical certifications, trade school diploma, or associate degree
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, power plantsFactories, industrial sites, equipment maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, energy, utilitiesManufacturing, facilities management, industrial sectors

Operator Engineers and Maintenance Technicians often work in similar industrial environments and require technical certifications. Operator Engineers focus on operating and controlling complex machinery, while Maintenance Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining equipment. Both roles are essential for smooth plant operations and are frequently searched together by employers and job seekers in industrial sectors.

Do operator engineers need a degree?

Operator engineers typically do not require a college degree but need technical training, certifications, and experience with machinery and systems. Many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant technical skills, often gained through vocational programs or apprenticeships.

How much do operator engineers make?

Operator engineers in California typically earn an average annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry sector. They often work with heavy machinery, require technical skills, and may need specialized training or licenses.
More about Operator Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Operator Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Operator Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Operator Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Operator Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Operator Engineer jobs?

For Operator Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Operator Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,029 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Operating Engineer

Socket.dev

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$106.74/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Participates in the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of campus utility systems including thermal systems, water treatment, and distribution systems.

  • Maintains records related to the inspection, operation, maintenance, and repair of utility systems and recommends improvements for efficiency and reliability.

  • Supports the resolution of after-hours and weekend requests related to facility issues and customer concerns.


Job description

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department

Operating Engineering 1

Time Type

Full time

Job Type

Regular

FLSA Status

Non-Exempt

Work Modality

Full On Campus Presence

Union

Excluded

Job Description Summary

The Operating Engineer, under the direction of the Assistant Chief and Lead Operating Engineers, works interdependently to resolve facility issues and customer concerns. Provides support in the operation, maintenance, and repair activities associated with the University's utility systems. Supports the resolution of after-hours and weekend requests. May be required to handle the responsibilities of other Operating Engineers or Assistant Operating Engineers in their absence. Coordinates and reviews the work of others, and trains and mentors new staff members and others as appropriate.

Essential Functions
  • Participates in the operation, maintenance (preventative and predictive), trouble shooting, and repair of campus thermal systems (including but not limited to steam, chilled water, and heating water), related plant equipment, water treatment systems (including but not limited to natatorium systems, boiler systems, and chiller systems) as well as maintenance and repair of domestic water & sewer campus distribution systems, and campus gas utility distribution systems to assure the fitness for use and reliability of our buildings, systems and equipment. Trains Assistant Operating Engineers and FMT as required with regards to the above systems. Operates and maintains systems to meet department, reliability, and energy efficiency objectives along with regulatory compliance requirements.

  • Maintains records pertaining to the inspection, operation, maintenance and repair of campus utilities systems, and related plant equipment to build a database from which historical data can be used to optimize scheduling and repair of critical components of the heating and cooling systems. Makes recommendations to improve the efficiency and reliability of campus managed utility systems. Responsible for the proper storage and usage of tools and equipment used in the repair operations to ensure the availability of an adequate operating inventory of tools and supplies.

  • Performs inspections of campus utilities systems, and related plant equipment tests to ensure that boiler and chiller water chemistry is within acceptable limits and maintains proper chemical water treatment through the knowledge and application of approved training provided by the chemical distributor.

  • Supports in the resolution of afterhours and weekend request received though the customer response center line (2Fix).

  • Completes approved training and performance requirements to meet department goals as well as regulatory requirements. Maintains an IDP (Individual Development Plan). Ensures all items are documented in the LMS (Learning Management System).

Competencies
  • Championing Customer Needs.

  • Building and Supporting Teams.

  • Evaluating and Implementing Ideas.

  • Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
  • Full-time.

  • 40 hours per week.

  • Evening and weekend work is required.

  • This position will be required to work multiple shifts. Current shift schedules are (7AM to 3PM, 3PM to 11PM, 11PM to 7AM).

  • This is a relief position, 24/7 coverage. The incumbent will be required to work a second consecutive shift should their relief fail to arrive for the next shift.

  • The incumbent is required to work unscheduled shifts as needed.

  • The position will perform job duties in confined spaces and be exposed to extreme temperatures.

  • This is a physically demanding position which requires strenuous physical exertion such as frequent or constant lifting, pushing, and/or pulling of heavy objects to perform essential functions, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Salary Range
  • $37.25 - $41.00 per hour.

Required Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • 1 - 3 years of relevant experience working in: 1.) A plant having high pressure steam boilers not to exceed four hundred (400) horsepower or a combination of high- pressure boilers and heating boilers or refrigeration equipment, not to exceed a total of four hundred (400) horsepower; 2.) A heating plant having low pressure steam boilers with a pump return and refrigeration equipment, with no limitation on total capacity; or 3.) A heating plant having hot water boilers and refrigeration equipment, with no limitation on total capacity.

Preferred Education and Experience
  • Facilities Management Certificate.

  • LEED Green Associate Certification.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

1.) Required Education & Licenses

  • H.S. Diploma or equivalent. 3rd Class DC Steam Engineerโ€™s license (non-restricted) by the date of hire. Must possess a current and valid United States driver's license at the time of hire and be able to obtain and maintain University driving privileges.

2.) Central Plant Operations

  • Strong working knowledge of and the ability to perform moderately complex technical tasks to support the operation, maintenance, and repair of assigned utility systems and related equipment. Ability to understand blueprints and moderately complex technical manuals. Strong working knowledge of the tools, equipment, regulations, and procedures relevant to site-specific systems. Ability to become proficient in all site-specific systems.

3.) Math & Science

  • Knowledge of practical math, percentages, decimals, and fractions, length, area, and volume measurement. Knowledge of and ability to understand fundamental principles related to thermodynamics and basic water chemistry.

4.) Building Automation Systems (BAS)

  • Basic knowledge of BAS and ability to independently resolve routine problems.

5.) Decision-Making & Leadership

  • Receives general Supervision. Ability to independently resolve moderately complex technical problems and serve as a point of escalation for nonroutine problem resolution. Ability to review oneโ€™s own and othersโ€™ work to ensure completeness and accuracy, carefully prepare for meetings, and organize information or materials for others.

6.) Communication & Interpersonal

  • Ability to express oneself orally in a clear and concise manner, while seeking and accepting feedback in a non-defensive manner, and providing constructive feedback and instruction to coworkers as appropriate. Ability to produce accurate and clear written material on topics of moderate complexity that is appropriate to the audience and free of spelling and grammatical errors. Proactive and demonstrated commitment to treating all individuals with dignity, compassion, and respect.

7.) Technology

  • Ability to use Microsoft Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint to prepare briefings, reports, and presentations.

8.) Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry 50lbs. Ability to climb ladders and work at heights. Ability to work in confined spaces and areas with temperature extremes.

9.) Other Requirements

  • Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age by the date of hire. Interest in and commitment to ongoing professional development and training

Other Duties
  • Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package.

Other Details
  • Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.

  • Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work onโ€‘site at the university.

  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • American University is an E-Verify employer.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoWorkdayand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individualโ€™s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.

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