Operating Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield • Richmond, VA

12d • $30 - $35

About The Position

The Operating Engineer supports the Assistant and/or Chief Engineer and Senior Facilities Manager with the day-to-day maintenance, repair, and efficient operation of building systems and equipment at assigned client facilities. The role performs routine operation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and related systems to promote efficient operation, safety, and equipment longevity while minimizing downtime. Responsibilities also include inspecting and repairing interior and exterior property areas and maintaining accurate records and reports. The engineer is expected to follow company policies and ethical standards, comply with applicable codes and safety requirements, and maintain required licenses and training. Schedules are generally typical business hours but may include shifts, on-call duties, overtime, after-hours or weekend work, and extended response periods during emergencies. The position pays $29.75–$35.00; actual compensation depends on location, qualifications, and other stated factors.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• At least four years of technical experience in building engineering, including HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical systems, equipment repair and maintenance, and overall system design and application.
• Valid state driver’s license.
• Valid Universal EPA Section 608 certification for servicing, repairing, or disposing of equipment that may release ozone-depleting refrigerants, or a similar combination of education and experience.
• Experience operating, maintaining, and performing basic repairs on HVAC systems, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, gas lines, and water systems.
• Knowledge of energy-management systems, techniques, and operations.
• Thorough knowledge of building-system operation, maintenance, and repair.
• Interpersonal skills for dealing with tenants, clients, and vendors.
• Basic computer skills in Outlook, Excel, and Word, and ability to use a smartphone or tablet, upload PDF files and documents, and join online meetings.
• Ability and willingness to work shift schedules or on-call duties and overtime when required, including after-hours and weekends.
• Ability to maintain any federal, state, or local licenses required for the assigned location.
• Communication proficiency, organization skills, technical proficiency, problem-solving and analysis skills, and a sense of urgency.

Nice To Haves

• Completion of an apprentice program or trade school.
• Trade license or permit appropriate to the location, such as a Journeyman or Master Electrician License, City License, Operator’s License, or Steam Engineer’s License.

Responsibilities

• Perform ongoing preventive maintenance and repair work orders for facility mechanical, electrical, lighting, and other installed systems and components.
• Maintain, operate, and repair HVAC systems, electrical distribution equipment, plumbing systems, building interiors and exteriors, and related grounds at assigned client buildings.
• Perform major HVAC repairs, including compressor, condenser, and evaporator or condenser coil replacement.
• Perform major plumbing replacements and repairs, including domestic water piping, steam traps, sewage lines, and bathroom fixtures.
• Perform electrical repairs, including conduit work, cable pulling, electrical panel maintenance, motor maintenance, and predictive maintenance.
• Conduct facility inspections and due diligence, reporting conditions that may affect client occupancy or operations.
• Operate, maintain, and repair boilers, heaters, pumps, valves, steam and heated or processed water lines, refrigerant systems, air compressors, water distribution equipment, electrical motors and engines, and associated equipment and lines.
• Maintain elevators unless specialized contractors service them.
• Operate, maintain, and repair HVAC building automation systems and related consoles, data-gathering panels, sensors, and indicators.
• Maintain and repair sanitary sewer systems, sump pumps, trash compactors, and kitchen equipment not owned by tenants.
• Recommend ongoing improvements to preventive maintenance programs.
• Maintain stock and inventory controls.
• Comply with applicable codes, regulations, governmental requirements, company directives, safety procedures, and safe-work practices.
• Become familiar with equipment and operating methods at assigned locations, including building automation and fire/life-safety systems.
• Compile and submit monthly reports to inform management of building operations.
• Maintain good housekeeping and safe work areas; identify hazards and use appropriate personal protective equipment or recommend hazard mitigation.
• Respond effectively to emergencies, with possible light travel during emergency events.
• Maintain all federal, state, or local licenses required for assigned locations and complete required annual safety training.
• Follow the company uniform dress code and maintain a neat, clean appearance during working hours.
• Perform general maintenance such as restroom and fixture repairs, lamp replacement and light-fixture cleaning, ceiling-tile removal, minor furniture and floor repairs, door-hardware maintenance, equipment repair, painting, HVAC filter replacement, mechanical-space cleaning, limited hand-tool work, and fire-extinguisher replacement.
• Perform other assigned operational tasks.
• Support after-hours and weekend building activity and respond to client callbacks for routine repairs or emergencies as required.

Benefits

• Eligible employees may enroll in health, vision, and dental insurance programs.
• Eligible employees may enroll in flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.
• Eligible employees may enroll in retirement savings plans.
• Eligible employees may enroll in life and disability insurance programs.
• Eligible employees may receive paid and unpaid time away from work.
• Competitive pay, subject to eligibility and other stated factors.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED