Operating Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield•West Columbia, SC

About The Position

Responsible for the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing equipment and systems at assigned properties. The role includes maintaining a clean and safe working environment, performing equipment rounds and routine assessments, completing preventive and corrective maintenance, and carrying out painting and housekeeping duties. The Operating Engineer performs building systems repairs and maintenance, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, heating, cooling, water, and related equipment. The role also monitors energy management systems, conducts fire and life safety inspections, documents work, responds to emergencies and customer concerns, and follows applicable codes, company directives, and safety practices. The position may involve working independently during certain shifts, extended work without relief during emergencies, overtime assignments, shift work, and on-call duties.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
At least 5 years of related work experience operating mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting.
Appropriate trade license or permit where required, such as a Journeyman or Master Electrician License or relevant city license.
A Universal Technician certification for CFCs may be required depending on market licensure requirements.
Valid driver's license and good driving record, subject to periodic checks where applicable.
Basic computing skills in Outlook, Excel, and Word.
Experience operating, maintaining, and performing basic repairs on HVAC systems, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, and water systems.
Knowledge of energy management systems, techniques, and operations.
Thorough knowledge of building systems operations, maintenance, and repair.

Nice To Haves

Graduation from an apprenticeship program or trade school.
Experience in facilities with cold storage and dry distribution.

Responsibilities

Perform plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work for assigned buildings.
Maintain heating equipment, chillers, direct expansion units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, variable air volume systems, and air distribution systems.
Monitor and adjust mechanical and pneumatic equipment, steam stations, control gauges, distributor panels, valves, thermostats, diffusers, and other building equipment.
Verify field conditions and make necessary repairs or adjustments.
Monitor energy management systems.
Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, floors, and other building components; perform general repairs, adjustments, and installations.
Repair plumbing fixtures, including water closets, urinals, flush valve assemblies, and lavatories.
Perform preventive maintenance in accordance with company standards, building protocols, manufacturer recommendations, and industry best practices.
Complete preventive maintenance tasks such as changing filters, cleaning coils, flushing condensers, punching tubes, greasing fan, pump, and motor bearings, inspecting and adjusting belts, replacing motor bearings, aligning pulleys and shafts, monitoring water chemical treatment and feed equipment, cleaning and maintaining cooling towers, and performing scheduled inspections and routines.
Inspect engine room and fan room equipment, cooling towers, motors, house pumps, electric rooms, backup generators, fire pumps, sump pumps, and ejector pumps.
Replace lamps and light fixtures, reinstall or replace signage, and ensure rooms are clean and free of obstructions and debris.
Check emergency exit signs and lights and maintain clear access to emergency stairs and exits.
Perform fire and life safety inspections in accordance with NFPA requirements, local jurisdiction requirements, company standards, building protocols, and direction from supervisors or property management.
Document and report activities to a supervisor.
Respond immediately to emergencies, including fires, evacuations, and equipment failures, as well as customer concerns.
Comply with applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency requirements, company directives, and safe work practices.
Complete required annual company safety training.
Comply with the company uniform dress code and maintain a neat, clean appearance on the property.