
Cushman & Wakefield
A global commercial real‑estate firm delivering services from leasing to asset and facilities management.
Lead Operating Engineer
Oversee operation and maintenance of building mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
Job Highlights
About the Role
The Lead Operating Engineer is accountable for the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems at an assigned commercial facility, ensuring maximum life and reliability of all equipment. This role often serves as the sole engineer on‑site and may also supervise maintenance staff depending on the building’s size and complexity. Key duties include daily monitoring of MEP systems, performing preventive maintenance tasks such as filter changes, motor lubrication, and equipment inspections, and coordinating repairs with outside contractors. The engineer maintains inventory control, responds immediately to emergencies, compiles monthly operational reports for management, and adheres to all safety, code, and company policies. • 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, and equipment inspections. • Recommend and implement improvements to the preventive maintenance program. • Develop and maintain building‑specific maintenance procedures. • Coordinate maintenance activities with external contractors and technicians. • Manage stock levels and inventory control for maintenance supplies. • Respond immediately to emergencies, equipment failures, and customer concerns. • Ensure compliance with codes, regulations, company directives, and safe work practices. • Prepare and submit monthly operational reports to management. • Follow C&W uniform dress code and maintain a neat appearance on‑site. • Organize tasks and resources efficiently. • Apply technical proficiency to building systems. • Make sound decisions under pressure. • Analyze problems and develop solutions. • Maintain a valid EPA Section 608 universal refrigerant certification. • Move between departments, floors, and properties as required.
Key Responsibilities
- ▸mep operations
- ▸preventive maintenance
- ▸inventory control
- ▸emergency response
- ▸report preparation
- ▸contract coordination
What You Bring
Candidates must possess strong communication, organizational, technical, decision‑making, and problem‑solving skills, a high school diploma or GED (with trade school or apprenticeship preferred), and at least five years of relevant trade experience in a commercial‑property setting. Required qualifications include appropriate trade licenses (e.g., Journeyman, Master Electrician, Operator, Steam Engineer), a valid EPA Section 608 universal refrigerant certification, a clean driver’s license, and basic computing proficiency in Outlook, Excel, and Word. Physical ability to lift 50 lb, climb, crouch, and read technical schematics is essential. • Complete required C&W safety training annually. • Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. • Hold a high school diploma or GED; apprenticeship or trade school graduation preferred. • Possess at least five years of trade experience operating MEP systems in commercial properties. • Hold appropriate trade license/permit (Journeyman, Master Electrician, Operator, Steam Engineer, etc.). • Possess a valid driver’s license with a good driving record. • Demonstrate basic computing skills in Outlook, Excel, and Word. • Experience with HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, and water systems. • Knowledge of energy management systems and techniques. • Comprehensive understanding of building systems operation, maintenance, and repair. • Ability to work extended shifts, on‑call, and as the sole maintenance staff member when needed. • Ability to stoop, stand, climb, and lift at least 50 lb safely. • Capable of crouching, reaching, and bending to install or move equipment. • Speak clearly and read technical documents and schematics.
Requirements
- ▸trade license
- ▸epa 608
- ▸5+ years
- ▸hvac
- ▸outlook
- ▸communication
Benefits
The position offers a competitive hourly rate of $31.88–$37.50, a comprehensive benefits package (health, vision, dental, retirement, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts), and is based in a professional office environment with occasional travel between properties. Cushman & Wakefield is an equal‑opportunity employer and complies with the ADAAA for applicants requiring accommodations.
Work Environment
Onsite