Operating Engineer

JLL•San Diego, CA

16h•$66,400 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

As an Operating Engineer with JLL, you'll be at the forefront of maintaining and operating mission-critical infrastructure in research and specialized facilities where precision, safety, and uptime are paramount. This role puts you in charge of complex building systems that support cutting edge research and operations—from emergency power systems and HVAC to fire suppression and building automation. You'll work in a high-stakes environment where your technical expertise and operational discipline directly impact business continuity and client confidence. This position offers the opportunity to work with sophisticated equipment, solve challenging technical problems, and be part of a team that ensures seamless facility operations 24/7. Your contributions keep critical environments running flawlessly, protecting both people and vital research operations.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Minimum of four years of experience in critical environment operations, maintenance, and/or engineering
Minimum of four years of hands-on experience in electrical and HVAC trades, including work with rooftop units and commercial HVAC systems.
Minimum of four years of experience operating and maintaining backup power systems including generators and uninterruptible power systems (UPS).
Comprehensive knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression systems in commercial or critical facilities environments.
Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats, including technical reports and documentation.
Fundamental technical skills in critical infrastructure systems including emergency/standby generators, automatic transfer switches, uninterruptible power systems, power distribution units, and battery backup systems.
Proficiency in basic computer applications and software including Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, email, and other standard business productivity tools.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Building Management Systems (BMS) or Building Automation Systems (BAS) including console operations, programming, and troubleshooting of HVAC controls and monitoring systems.
Industry certifications such as EPA Universal Refrigeration Certification, electrical licensure, or specialized training in critical facilities management (CFPS, CEM, or similar credentials).
Background working in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, data center, or research laboratory environments with understanding of cleanroom operations, environmental controls, and regulatory compliance requirements.
Familiarity with fire detection and suppression systems including wet pipe, dry pipe, pre-action, and clean agent systems, with ability to perform testing and maintenance activities.
Active participation in professional trade organizations or completion of continuing education programs related to facilities engineering, demonstrating commitment to staying current with industry best practices and emerging technologies.
Basic plumbing and piping skills including experience with process piping, laboratory gas systems, or specialized water treatment systems used in research environments.
Experience with predictive maintenance techniques and technologies such as vibration analysis, thermography, or oil analysis to identify equipment issues before failure occurs.

Responsibilities

Operating and monitoring critical mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems including generators, UPS systems, chillers, HVAC equipment, and building automation systems to ensure continuous, reliable performance in research and mission-critical environments.
Conducting routine equipment rounds, collecting operational data, and analyzing system performance to identify potential issues before they impact facility operations, documenting findings in the computerized maintenance management system.
Executing preventive and corrective maintenance on both critical and non-critical equipment, including hands-on repair work such as motor rebuilds, pump seal replacements, valve installations, and electrical troubleshooting to maintain optimal system reliability.
Coordinating with third-party contractors during maintenance activities, ensuring all work meets safety standards and compliance requirements while maintaining operational awareness of critical systems.
Responding immediately to emergency situations, equipment alarms, and customer concerns, applying formal conduct of operations protocols to safely restore systems and minimize downtime.
Managing fire alarm systems operations including enabling and disabling control panels during maintenance activities, ensuring life safety systems remain functional and compliant.
Maintaining accurate work order documentation, ordering necessary materials and parts for repairs, and keeping workspace clean and organized according to safety regulations and hazardous materials handling procedures.