Operating Engineer

JLL; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

JLL is seeking an Operating Engineer to keep critical building systems running smoothly and efficiently at client facilities in a hands-on role. You will operate, maintain, and optimize mechanical, electrical, and HVAC systems, collaborating with property managers and engineers to ensure safety and sustainability.

Ideal candidates have 3–5 years of hands-on experience with commercial building systems, strong troubleshooting skills, and familiarity with CMMS and BAS tools.

Qualifications

• Requires high school diploma with technical training in building operations, HVAC, or related systems.
• 3–5 years hands-on experience operating and maintaining commercial building systems.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, boilers, chillers, BAS, and electrical distribution.
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and equipment specs; troubleshoot efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Operate, monitor, and maintain building mechanical systems including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, AHUs, and pumps.
• Perform routine inspections of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and life safety systems.
• Respond promptly to emergencies; troubleshoot and implement solutions to minimize downtime.
• Execute preventive maintenance per schedule and document work in CMMS.
• Monitor BAS and adjust controls to optimize energy efficiency and occupant comfort.
• Coordinate with contractors during service calls and major repairs to meet specs.
• Maintain logs of equipment performance, maintenance, and energy data.
• Support sustainability initiatives to reduce energy use and improve efficiency.

Skills

HVAC systems

Boilers

Chillers

Building automation systems

Electrical distribution

Blueprint reading

Troubleshooting

Physical stamina

Shift flexibility

Education

High school diploma + technical training

Associate degree or HVAC certification

Tools

Maximo

Corrigo

CMMS

Tridium

Johnson Controls

Siemens BAS

Job description

What this job involves:

As an Operating Engineer at JLL, you'll be at the heart of keeping critical building systems running smoothly and efficiently. This hands-on role puts you in charge of operating, maintaining, and optimizing mechanical, electrical, and HVAC systems that keep our client facilities functioning at peak performance. You'll work closely with property management teams and fellow engineers to ensure operational excellence while maintaining the highest standards of safety and sustainability. At JLL, we are collectively shaping a brighter way — for our clients, ourselves and our fellow employees — and as an Operating Engineer, you'll play a vital role in delivering exceptional facility operations. We embrace more innovative ways of working, and you'll have opportunities to implement cutting-edge building technologies and energy management solutions that drive real results. This position requires someone who combines technical expertise with strong problem-solving abilities and a commitment to continuous improvement.

What this job involves:

As an Operating Engineer at JLL, you'll be at the heart of keeping critical building systems running smoothly and efficiently. This hands-on role puts you in charge of operating, maintaining, and optimizing mechanical, electrical, and HVAC systems that keep our client facilities functioning at peak performance. You'll work closely with property management teams and fellow engineers to ensure operational excellence while maintaining the highest standards of safety and sustainability. At JLL, we are collectively shaping a brighter way — for our clients, ourselves and our fellow employees — and as an Operating Engineer, you'll play a vital role in delivering exceptional facility operations. We embrace more innovative ways of working, and you'll have opportunities to implement cutting-edge building technologies and energy management solutions that drive real results. This position requires someone who combines technical expertise with strong problem-solving abilities and a commitment to continuous improvement.

What your day-to-day will look like:

• Operate, monitor, and maintain building mechanical systems including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, air handling units, and pumps to ensure optimal performance
• Conduct routine inspections of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and life safety systems, identifying and addressing potential issues before they elevate
• Respond promptly to building emergencies and system failures, troubleshooting problems and implementing effective solutions to minimize downtime
• Perform preventive maintenance tasks according to established schedules, documenting all work completed in the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS)
• Monitor building automation systems (BAS) and adjust controls to optimize energy efficiency while maintaining occupant comfort
• Collaborate with contractors and vendors during service calls, equipment installations, and major repairs to ensure work meets specifications and quality standards
• Maintain accurate logs and records of equipment performance, maintenance activities, and energy consumption data
• Support sustainability initiatives by identifying opportunities to reduce energy use and improve building system efficiency

Required qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent, supplemented by technical training in building operations, HVAC, or related mechanical systems
• Minimum 3-5 years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining commercial building systems in facilities of 100,000+ square feet
• Strong working knowledge of HVAC systems, boilers, chillers, building automation systems, and electrical distribution
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, technical manuals, and equipment specifications
• Demonstrated troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve mechanical and electrical issues efficiently
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds, work in confined spaces, climb ladders, and stand or walk for extended periods
• Flexibility to work rotating shifts, respond to emergency calls, and adjust schedule as operational needs require

Preferred qualifications:

• Associate degree or technical certification in HVAC, building systems, or facilities maintenance
• Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) such as Maximo, Corrigo, or similar platforms
• Working knowledge of building automation systems including Tridium, Johnson Controls, Siemens, or other BAS platforms
• Universal EPA 608 certification or other relevant HVAC certifications
• LEED operations credential or other sustainability-focused certifications
• Previous experience in commercial office buildings, corporate campuses, or Class A properties