Operating Engineer

The Shed•New York, NY

3d•$48 - $53•Onsite

About The Position

The Operating Engineer helps ensure The Shed’s facility operates safely, efficiently, and continuously. The role operates, monitors, maintains, and repairs major building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and the building’s kinetic infrastructure. The engineer supports daily operations and artistic programming in a facility that operates 24/7, 365 days a year, and reports to the Lead Engineer and Director of Facilities & Engineering. The position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and represented by the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 94. Wages, benefits, scheduling, and working conditions are governed by the applicable CBA. The hourly salary range is $47.71 to $53.01, with additional compensation such as overtime, shift differentials, and benefits provided in accordance with the CBA. The schedule combines day and overnight shifts: Monday and Sunday, 2:00 PM–10:00 PM; and Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights, 10:00 PM–6:00 AM the following day. Days off are Tuesday and Saturday. The role requires flexibility for 24/7 operations, including nights, weekends, holidays, extended hours as needed, and on-call emergency response.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least five years of relevant experience in building operations or engineering.
Experience with building automation systems (BMS/BAS).
Hands-on experience with complex building systems in a commercial, cultural, or institutional environment.
Working knowledge of HVAC, electrical systems, and building automation systems.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and blueprints.
Basic proficiency with Google Workspace, including Docs, Sheets, and Gmail.
Q01 or Q99 Refrigeration Engineer license.
EPA Section 608 Universal Certification.
Ability to inspect equipment in mechanical rooms, rooftops, and confined spaces.
Ability to climb ladders, lift heavy materials, and perform physically demanding tasks.
Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as needed.
On-call availability and ability to respond to emergencies.

Nice To Haves

Trade school or apprenticeship program.
Ability to work independently and make real-time operational decisions.
Detail-oriented approach and strong communication skills.
FDNY Certificates of Fitness: A35 – Air Compressors; F01 – Fire Guard (Impairment); F60 – Fire Guard (Torch Operations); G60 – Torch Use of Flammable Gases; S12 – Sprinkler Systems; and S13 – Standpipe Systems. New hires must obtain at least five within two years if not already held.

Responsibilities

Operate, monitor, and maintain HVAC systems, including chillers, DX units, pumps, fan coils, VAV systems, and air distribution systems.
Maintain and support electrical distribution systems, subpanels, and PLC controls.
Perform preventive maintenance on mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and kinetic systems, including operable doors, façade, and shades.
Monitor building systems through the Building Management System (BMS) and adjust them for performance and occupant comfort.
Conduct routine building rounds and log system performance using the Log Check system.
Record daily readings for HVAC, domestic hot water, humidification, and other critical systems.
Maintain accurate shift logs and communicate updates across engineering staff and shifts.
Diagnose and respond to equipment issues and system failures in real time.
Complete work orders, emergency repairs, and preventive maintenance tasks.
Monitor field conditions and proactively address potential issues.
Coordinate with contractors, vendors, and internal teams as needed.
Support a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence.
Respond to building emergencies, including fires, system failures, and evacuations.
Document and escalate incidents.
Work independently during certain shifts and make real-time operational decisions.