Operating Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield • West Columbia, SC

6d • $28 - $33

About The Position

The Operating Engineer is 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; conducting rounds and routine assessments; performing preventive and corrective maintenance; and handling painting and housekeeping as needed.

The engineer performs building plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work; monitors and adjusts mechanical and pneumatic equipment; checks field conditions and makes repairs or adjustments; monitors energy management; and maintains general building fixtures and systems. Duties also include preventive maintenance according to company standards, building protocols, manufacturer recommendations, and industry best practices, as well as inspections of equipment and fire and life safety systems. The engineer documents and reports activities, responds to emergencies and customer concerns, complies with applicable codes and safety requirements, and completes required annual safety training.

The position may be the only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts. It may require shift work, on-call duties, and extended periods without relief during priority or emergency responses, including overtime-type assignments. The work takes place in a professional office environment and involves travel between properties outdoors in varying weather conditions.

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 applicable city licenses or certificates.
• May be required to hold Universal Technician certification for CFCs, depending on local licensing requirements.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record, with 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.
• Ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift at least 50 pounds of equipment, and safely install rigging or lifting devices.
• Ability to crouch, reach, and move equipment by bending at the waist, legs, and spine.
• Ability to move between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work.
• Ability to speak clearly and understand information presented orally and in writing.
• Ability to read printed material, drawings, and schematics.

Nice To Haves

• Graduation from an apprentice 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, DX units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, VAV systems, and air distribution systems.
• Monitor and adjust mechanical and pneumatic equipment, steam stations, gauges, distributor panels, valves, thermostats, diffusers, and related equipment.
• Verify field conditions and make necessary repairs or adjustments.
• Monitor energy management.
• Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, floors, and other property components; perform general repairs, adjustments, and installations.
• Repair plumbing fixtures, including water closets, urinals, flush valve assemblies, and lavatories.
• Perform preventive maintenance according to company standards, building protocols, manufacturer recommendations, and industry best practices.
• Inspect and maintain engine room and fan room equipment, cooling towers, motors, pumps, electrical rooms, backup generators, fire pumps, sump pumps, and ejector pumps.
• Replace lamps and light fixtures, install or replace signage, and ensure rooms are clean and free of obstructions and debris.
• Check emergency exit signs and lights and ensure emergency stairs and exits remain accessible; conduct additional fire and life safety inspections as directed and required by applicable standards and codes.
• Document and report activities to a supervisor.
• Respond promptly to emergencies, including fire, evacuation, and equipment failure, and address customer concerns.
• Comply with applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency requirements, company directives, and safe work practices.
• Complete required C&W safety training annually and comply with the company uniform dress code.
• Maintain a neat and clean appearance while on the property outside working hours.

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.
• Eligible employees receive access to a comprehensive benefits package and competitive pay.

What This Job Offers

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