Operating Engineer I (variable hour)

About the role

The Operating Engineer I position supports the safe and reliable operation of building systems that power world-class performances at Portland’5 Centers for the Arts, operated by Metro. This event-driven role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and brings strong mechanical expertise, with work primarily focused on HVAC and electrical systems.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and troubleshoot HVAC systems: including air handlers, boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, fans, controls, and associated PLC/automation systems.
• Service plumbing and hydronic systems: including piping, valves, drainage, and potable/non-potable water systems.
• Support life and fire safety systems: coordinating inspections and maintenance for sprinklers, alarms, suppression systems, and related equipment.
• Perform general mechanical and building trades work: including doors, hardware, glazing, structural finishes, and minor carpentry; welding/brazing experience is a plus.
• Maintain kitchen and refrigeration equipment as needed.
• Aid with low-voltage infrastructure: including basic troubleshooting of network/data cabling tied to building systems.
• Use maintenance and work order systems to track repairs, review system data, and support efficient operation of building assets.
• Follow and promote safety standards: including OSHA practices, lockout/tagout, PPE use, and hazard awareness.

Qualifications

• One year of experience as an operating engineer in a large facility or Maintenance Technician in a medium to large commercial facility, OR any combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position.
• Possession of a valid driver's license.
• Able to work a variety of shifts including weekdays, daylight hours, evenings, weekends and holidays as required.
• Ability to successfully pass a background and driving check.

Attributes for Success

• Reliability: Demonstrates consistent punctuality and strong attendance.
• Customer Service: Communicates clearly with customers and teammates, providing timely updates and thorough work order documentation. Accurately reads and follows written and verbal instructions, with strong attention to detail. Uses CMMS systems to manage and close out work.
• Safety: Applies industry safety standards (OSHA and others) and works safely in physically demanding conditions, including lifting, climbing ladders, and frequent movement throughout the facility.
• Initiative & Troubleshooting: Takes a proactive, hands-on approach to problem-solving with a willingness to learn. Reads and interprets schematics, one-line diagrams, and building plans (mechanical, electrical, and fire protection).
• Teamwork: Works collaboratively with staff and contractors, maintains positive working relationships, and verifies quality and completeness of completed work.
• Technical & Physical Skills: Understands and safely operates building systems including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, packaged units, electrical systems (high/low voltage), and DDC controls, including how these systems interact.

Benefits

This position is on-call as needed to support event operations, with scheduling based on business needs predominantly in the evenings and on weekends. Shift and schedule: This position is variable hour with no set schedule, you set your schedule, allowing you to balance work with your personal commitment. You’ll have the opportunity to support our team primarily during days. Additional opportunities may come up to help during events, nights, weekends, days and holidays as needed, with your schedule adapting to the operational needs and special events at the Portland’5 Centers for the Arts.

Working Conditions

This role requires working in a wide range of mechanical and facility environments, including exposure to physical, electrical, chemical, thermal and ergonomic hazards typical of building trades work. Duties may involve lifting, climbing, confined spaces, and operating mechanical equipment. A strong commitment to safety, adherence to established protocols, and timely reporting of hazards are essential to maintaining a safe work environment.

Compensation and Representation

The starting rate for this position is step 1: $40.70 per hour. This position is eligible for overtime and is represented by International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) local 701 union. It is classified as an Operating Engineer I.