Operating Engineer

JLL • San Diego, CA

24d • $65,000 - $70,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Operating Engineer is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing critical and non-critical building systems within a research facility and/or other mission-critical environments. The role supports the safe, reliable, and efficient performance of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire/life safety, and building automation systems. It requires hands-on technical expertise, operational discipline, and a commitment to service in a high-performance environment. The engineer helps maintain facility uptime, support operational excellence, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

The role is on-site in San Diego, California, with a Monday-through-Friday shift from 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship. Expected compensation is $65,000–$70,000 per year; the posting also lists $31.25–$33.65 and notes that final compensation depends on qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• At least 4 years of experience in critical facilities operations, engineering, or maintenance environments.
• At least 4 years of experience working with HVAC and electrical systems, including rooftop units.
• Experience supporting backup power systems, including generators, UPS systems, and automatic transfer switches.
• Working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression systems in commercial or critical facilities.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and operational manuals.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in research facilities, laboratories, data centers, or other mission-critical environments.
• Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS) and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
• Trade certification or technical training in HVAC, electrical, mechanical, or related disciplines.
• Knowledge of fire alarm systems, access control systems, CCTV, and other digital building systems.
• Experience coordinating or supporting outside contractors and vendors.
• Understanding of preventive maintenance programs and reliability-centered maintenance practices.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including weekends, holidays, or emergency call response as needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on critical facility systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, UPS, generators, transfer switches, and fire/life safety systems.
• Monitor and operate building systems through Building Management Systems (BMS), and conduct routine equipment inspections, testing, and operational rounds.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain pumps, motors, compressors, piping, valves, heat exchangers, and related mechanical and electrical equipment.
• Respond to equipment failures, alarms, and facility incidents, ensuring timely resolution and communication.
• Support and oversee third-party contractors performing maintenance, repair, or installation work in the facility.
• Complete and document assigned work orders and maintenance activities in the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).
• Follow safety procedures, environmental policies, and hazardous-material handling requirements, and help maintain a clean and safe work environment.

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: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED