Operating Engineer

Location: Houston, 77002 • Contract to Hire

About the role

This position is responsible for the day-to-day maintenance, repair, and efficient operation of all building systems and equipment at a Class A commercial office building in downtown Houston, Texas. The Engineer will coordinate and complete all work requests, assign priorities, delegate to contractors when required, and follow up on completion. This is a non-supervisory role.

Responsibilities

• Review and prioritize daily work orders to ensure timely completion and identify recurring issues; recommend corrective solutions.
• Oversee and inspect work performed by contractors and vendors, ensuring all work is completed properly and building systems are fully operational.
• Schedule and coordinate all required inspections with city, state, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).
• Inspect and monitor building systems—HVAC, plumbing, fire alarm—to ensure optimal performance and environmental conditions.
• Estimate labor, materials, and time requirements for repairs and maintenance projects.
• Maintain adequate inventories of tools, supplies, and replacement parts; coordinate procurement as needed.
• Coordinate preventive maintenance schedules and system downtime with the Director of Engineering Services, Property Management, and tenants to minimize operational disruptions.
• Perform assigned preventive maintenance, emergency repairs, and corrective maintenance activities.
• Complete maintenance records and documentation accurately and timely.
• Respond promptly to emergency situations and coordinate additional resources as needed.
• Support and maintain energy management programs to ensure building systems operate efficiently and cost-effectively.
• Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of commercial building maintenance experience.
• Previous experience maintaining commercial office buildings and building systems.
• Stationary Engineer License required.
• Appropriate trade licenses or certifications preferred, including:
  • Journeyman or Master Electrician License
  • Refrigeration Certificate of Fitness
  • High Pressure Boiler License
  • High Pressure Steam Operator License
  • Other applicable city or state certifications
• Experience operating, maintaining, and performing basic repairs on:
  • HVAC systems
  • Boilers and heaters
  • Pumps and compressors
  • Refrigerant systems
  • Water systems and related equipment
• Thorough understanding of building operations, maintenance, and repair of:
  • HVAC systems
  • Electrical systems
  • Building Automation Systems (BAS)
  • Energy Management Systems (EMS)
• Knowledge of energy management techniques and operational best practices.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to effectively present information and provide clear instructions.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong customer service orientation and commitment to tenant satisfaction.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stoop, stand, climb, and work in various physical positions throughout the day.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds of equipment, tools, ladders, and materials for distances of up to 30 feet.
• Ability to safely install and use rigging and lifting devices.
• Ability to climb ladders and stairs regularly.
• Ability to work extended hours and overtime, including responding to emergency situations when necessary.

Preferred Attributes

• Self-motivated and capable of working independently with limited supervision.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high operational standards.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional demeanor with excellent interpersonal and tenant relations skills.

Pay

$24–$35/hour

Schedule

Rotating shift, 40 hours per week: 7 am–4 pm / 8 am–5 pm / 11 am–8 pm / 5:30 am–2:30 pm