Lead Operating Engineer

About the Role

The Lead Operating Engineer ensures efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems for assigned facilities. The role often serves as the sole engineer on‑site and may supervise maintenance staff depending on the building’s size and complexity. Focus is on maximizing system life and reliability while adhering to safety and regulatory standards. • Conduct daily operations and maintenance of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. • Supervise and assign tasks to maintenance staff when applicable. • Perform preventive maintenance such as filter changes, motor lubrication, lamp replacement, belt adjustments, bearing replacement, and shaft alignment. • Recommend ongoing improvements to the preventive maintenance program. • Develop and maintain building‑specific maintenance procedures. • Coordinate maintenance activities with outside contractors and technicians. • Manage stock and inventory control. • Respond immediately to emergencies (fire, evacuation, equipment failure) and address customer concerns. • Ensure compliance with all codes, regulations, and company directives while practicing safe work habits. • Compile and submit monthly reports to keep management informed of building operations. • Follow C&W uniform dress code and maintain a neat appearance on and off duty. • Organize tasks and priorities efficiently. • Apply technical proficiency to system operations. • Make decisions and solve problems analytically. • Maintain a valid EPA Section 608 certification for CFC/HFC refrigerants. • Operate, maintain, and perform basic repairs on HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, and water systems. • Crouch, reach, and bend to install or move equipment. • Move between departments, floors, and properties as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸preventive maintenance
• ▸hvac operations
• ▸equipment repair
• ▸inventory control
• ▸emergency response
• ▸compliance

What You Bring

Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED, with a trade school apprenticeship preferred, and at least five years of experience operating building systems in commercial properties. Required licenses may include journeyman or master electrician, city permits, operator or steam engineer licenses, and EPA Section 608 certification for refrigerants. A valid driver’s license, basic computer skills, and knowledge of HVAC, boilers, pumps, and energy management are also essential. The position works in a professional office environment but frequently requires travel between properties, handling equipment weighing up to 50 lb, and performing physically demanding tasks such as climbing, stooping, and lifting. Employees must be able to communicate clearly, read technical documents, and use vision for schematics. Shift work, on‑call duties, and extended periods without relief may be required during emergencies. • Complete required C&W safety training annually. • Communicate effectively in oral and written form. • Hold a high school diploma or GED; apprenticeship or trade school education preferred. • Possess at least five years of experience operating building mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. • Hold appropriate trade licenses (e.g., journeyman/master electrician, operator, steam engineer) as required. • Possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record. • Use basic computing skills in Outlook, Excel, and Word. • Understand energy management systems and techniques. • Ability to stoop, stand, climb, and lift at least 50 lb safely. • Speak clearly for effective communication. • Read and understand oral and written information, including drawings and schematics. • Utilize vision to read printed material and technical documents.

Requirements

• ▸high school
• ▸5+ years
• ▸journeyman
• ▸epa 608
• ▸hvac
• ▸office suite

Benefits

Cushman & Wakefield provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, vision, dental, retirement plans, and paid time off, along with competitive pay ranging from $29.26 to $34.42 per hour. Compensation varies by location, experience, and collective bargaining status, and the company ensures wages meet or exceed minimum wage requirements.

Work Environment

Onsite