Lead Operating Engineer

JLL • East Syracuse, NY

1d • $70,000 - $84,000 • Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing facility equipment and utility systems within the assigned scope. As the Lead Boiler House Operator/Engineer, the role provides technical leadership and serves as a primary communication point for operating engineers, maintenance personnel, and site management regarding equipment performance, operational issues, maintenance activities, and facility needs.

The role supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of high-pressure steam boilers and supporting utility systems while delivering service to the client. It requires hands-on work with facility equipment and systems and supports continuous improvement, safety compliance, and operational excellence. The position is onsite in East Syracuse, New York, with a rotating 12-hour shift and overtime based on business needs. Expected compensation is $70,000–$84,000 per year.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• One year of experience in building operations, building automation, system controls, HVAC/R, and boilers.
• Pesticide Applicators license.
• Proficient computer skills.
• 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.
• Strong customer service skills.
• Problem-solving ability.
• Good organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.
• Effective use of technology and tools, including proficiency in Excel and Office e-mail.

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 use it to drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure work meets JLL and client quality requirements, with particular emphasis on GxP-related activities.
• Provide leadership, 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 work with vendors, facilities personnel, and service providers to support efficient execution with minimal disruption to client operations.
• Implement and manage preventive maintenance programs according to JLL and client standards.
• Schedule, maintain, and monitor HVAC, water, electrical, steam, and utility systems for safe, reliable, and compliant operation.
• Manage performance evaluation and development processes for direct reports.
• Review completed work orders, maintenance logs, forms, and supporting documentation daily for accuracy, completeness, and appropriate 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.
• Install, maintain, and repair 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 and lockout/tagout permits and related documentation.
• Perform complex operating procedures that support the safe and reliable operation of 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.
• Keep boiler and chiller plants, laboratory utility spaces, cooling tower areas, generator and switchgear rooms, air handling equipment rooms, steam stations, and condensate return systems safe, clean, organized, and audit-ready.
• Respond to emergencies, identify root causes, implement corrective actions, and coordinate assistance from on-duty mechanics or emergency response resources when needed.
• Maintain safe, clean, secure, and orderly mechanical spaces.
• Comply with applicable safety, environmental, regulatory, and site-specific standards and procedures.
• Perform other assigned duties and responsibilities.

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: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED