*Operating Engineer*

Tatitlek Management Services, Inc. (TMSI); Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The Tatitlek Corporation seeks an Operating Engineer in Charleston, SC, to oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of complex mechanical systems in a building—often with high autonomy and senior oversight of junior engineers.

You’ll ensure safe, compliant operation of boilers, HVAC, and electrical gear, coordinating with contractors and managing energy reductions. A DoD security clearance is required or obtainable, with a strong focus on reliability and safety.

Qualifications

• Valid 3rd Class Steam and Hot Water Heating Boiler Engineer license (DC jurisdiction) or ability to obtain upon hire.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in Engineering Services or facility operations.
• Active Top Secret security clearance.
• Comprehensive knowledge of boiler operations, HVAC systems, and building mechanical equipment.
• Strong understanding of electrical systems, controls, and BAS.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical and electrical problems and implement solutions.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, manuals, and diagrams.
• Proficiency in using diagnostic tools, testing equipment, and maintenance software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; team coordination.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and maintain boilers, HVAC systems, chillers, cooling towers, and related equipment.
• Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs on electrical equipment and pumps.
• Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and HVAC failures to minimize downtime.
• Maintain proper temperature, humidity, and air quality throughout the facility.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, codes, and environmental standards.
• Maintain logs and records of operation, maintenance, and performance.
• Respond to emergencies including after-hours calls as needed.
• Coordinate with contractors and vendors for specialized repairs and upgrades.
• Support energy conservation initiatives to optimize building efficiency.
• Assist in preventive maintenance program development and implementation.

Skills

Boiler operations

HVAC systems

Electrical systems

Building automation (BAS)

Troubleshooting

Safety regulations

Blueprints & schematics

Diagnostic tools

Maintenance software

Education

3rd Class Steam and Hot Water Boiler Engineer license (DC)

Tools

Diagnostic tools

Testing equipment

Maintenance software

Job description

Operating Engineer

Job Locations

US-SC-Charleston

Job Information

ID: 2026-2750

Category: Facility Maintenance

Position Type: Regular Full-Time

FLSA Status: Exempt

Overview

Job specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.

SUMMARY

The Operating Engineer is a licensed professional responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of complex mechanical systems like boilers, HVAC units, and electrical equipment within a building, often requiring extensive knowledge of safety regulations and the ability to troubleshoot and perform repairs on a variety of equipment, usually with a high level of autonomy and oversight over junior engineers; essentially considered the most senior level of stationary engineer within a facility.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Operate, monitor, and maintain boilers, HVAC systems, chillers, cooling towers, and associated mechanical equipment to ensure optimal performance and efficiency


• Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and repairs on electrical equipment, pumps, motors, and building automation systems


• Troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical, electrical, and HVAC system failures, implementing effective solutions to minimize downtime


• Monitor and adjust building systems to maintain proper temperature, humidity, and air quality levels throughout the facility


• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, building codes, and environmental standards in the operation of mechanical systems


• Maintain accurate logs and records of equipment operation, maintenance activities, and system performance


• Respond to emergency situations involving mechanical or electrical system failures, including after-hours and weekend calls as needed


• Conduct safety inspections and ensure all equipment operates within established safety parameters


• Provide technical guidance and oversight to junior engineers and maintenance staff


• Coordinate with contractors and vendors for specialized repairs, installations, and system upgrades


• Manage energy conservation initiatives to optimize building efficiency and reduce operational costs


• Participate in the development and implementation of preventive maintenance programs


• Ensure proper inventory levels of parts, supplies, and materials necessary for equipment maintenance and repair

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, AND LICENSURE

• Valid 3rd Class Steam and Hot Water Heating Boiler Engineer license (DC jurisdiction) or ability to obtain upon hire


• Minimum 3 years of experience in Engineering Services or facility operations


• Active Top Secret security clearance


• Comprehensive knowledge of boiler operations, HVAC systems, and building mechanical equipment


• Strong understanding of electrical systems, controls, and building automation systems (BAS)


• Extensive knowledge of safety regulations, OSHA standards, and environmental compliance requirements


• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical and electrical problems and implement effective solutions


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail


• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, technical manuals, and system diagrams


• Proficiency in using diagnostic tools, testing equipment, and maintenance software


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to document work and coordinate with team members and management


• Physical ability to perform manual labor, lift equipment up to 50 lbs, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces


• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and exercise sound judgment in decision-making


• Strong organizational and time management skills to prioritize multiple tasks and emergency situations


• Flexibility to work various shifts, respond to emergency calls, and provide on-call support as needed


• Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment and following all safety protocols

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the following essential functions.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Yes.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed indoors with some potential risks to safety and health hazards related to electronics.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

May require lifting up to 25 pounds.

WORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCE

DoD Secret or higher security clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. U.S. Citizenship is required.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFYING FACTORS

Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance. In addition, a satisfactory background screening, negative drug test, positive references and proof of identity and legal authorization to work in the United States are required.

Equal Opportunity Employer

As an equal opportunity employer, The Tatitlek Corporation recognizes that our strength lies in our people. Discrimination and all unlawful harassment, including sexual harassment, in employment is not tolerated. We encourage success based on our individual merits and abilities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, citizenship status, military status, protected Veteran's status or employment.