Lead Operating Engineer

JLL • East Syracuse, NY

10d • $70,000 - $84,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Operating Engineer is responsible for operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing facility equipment and utility systems within the assigned scope. As Lead Boiler House Operator/Engineer, this role provides technical leadership and serves as the primary point of communication for operating engineers, maintenance personnel, and site management regarding equipment performance, operational issues, maintenance activities, and facility needs. The position helps ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of high-pressure steam boilers and supporting utility systems while delivering service to the client.

This is a hands-on leadership role overseeing facility operations and maintenance across systems such as HVAC, central utility plants, electrical systems, plumbing, boilers, chillers, cooling towers, generators, and laboratory utilities. The Lead Operating Engineer supports continuous improvement, safety compliance, and operational excellence; coordinates preventive and reliability-centered maintenance; and ensures work and documentation meet JLL and client requirements, with particular emphasis on GxP-related activities. The position is onsite in East Syracuse, New York, on a rotating 12-hour shift, with overtime based on business needs.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least 1 year of experience in building operations, building automation, system controls, HVAC/R, and boilers.
• Pesticide Applicators license required.
• Proficient computer skills and familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
• General knowledge of industry maintenance and repair practices.
• Ability to work independently and plan work without direct supervision or with limited supervision.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Problem-solving ability.
• Good organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective use of technology and tools, including proficiency in Excel and Office (e-mail).
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Operating Engineers license or equivalent.
• Universal refrigerant certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead monitoring of key systems and assets, provide troubleshooting leadership, resolve issues, and respond to operational needs.
• Supervise the team responsible for operating and maintaining HVAC, central utility plants, electrical systems, plumbing, and other building systems.
• Organize, direct, and oversee daily facilities operations, maintenance activities, and major repair projects.
• Review operational performance data and drive continuous improvement for systems and assets.
• Ensure work complies with JLL and client quality requirements, especially for GxP-related activities.
• Provide technical guidance and safety oversight to operating and maintenance technicians.
• Communicate regularly with the JLL Site Manager and participate in scheduled staff meetings and calls.
• Coordinate activities with vendors, facilities personnel, and service providers to minimize disruption to client operations.
• Implement and manage preventive maintenance programs in accordance with JLL and client standards.
• Coordinate scheduling, maintenance, and monitoring of HVAC, water, electrical, steam, and utility systems.
• Manage performance evaluation and development processes for direct reports.
• Review work orders, maintenance logs, forms, and supporting documentation daily for accuracy, completeness, and proper entry in the Lotte CMMS.
• Inspect, troubleshoot, repair, and adjust equipment to improve reliability and minimize downtime and service interruptions.
• Support maintenance planning using reliability-centered maintenance practices to improve system performance and asset longevity.
• Perform installation, maintenance, and repair activities on boilers, HVAC systems, chillers, cooling towers, air handling units, and other critical facility infrastructure.
• Oversee daily operations and maintenance performed by JLL personnel and contractors.
• Prepare safety permits, lockout/tagout permits, and related documentation, and ensure work is performed safely and efficiently.
• Perform complex operating procedures for high-pressure steam boilers, laboratory utilities, emergency generators, fire pumps, and associated equipment.
• Monitor and maintain water chemistry for boilers, cooling towers, and closed-loop systems, making corrective adjustments as needed.
• Maintain safe, clean, organized, and audit-ready conditions in boiler and chiller plants, laboratory utility spaces, cooling tower areas, generator and switchgear rooms, air handling equipment rooms, steam stations, and condensate return systems.
• Respond to emergencies, identify root causes, implement corrective actions, and coordinate support from on-duty mechanics or emergency response resources as needed.
• Maintain mechanical spaces in a safe, clean, secure, and orderly condition.
• Comply with applicable safety, environmental, regulatory, and site-specific standards and procedures.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision care.
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay.
• Supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package prioritizing mental, physical, and emotional health.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED