Operating Engineer

JLL; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 66,400 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan with matching contributions

Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care

Paid parental leave

Paid Time Off and Company Holidays

Job summary

JLL is seeking an Operating Engineer in San Diego, CA, responsible for maintaining mission-critical infrastructure. This role involves monitoring and operating systems to ensure continuous performance in research facilities.

The ideal candidate has at least four years of critical environment operations experience and expertise in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. The position offers comprehensive benefits and a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum four years of experience in critical environment operations.
• Hands-on experience with electrical and HVAC systems.
• Knowledge of fire suppression systems in commercial environments.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor critical mechanical and electrical systems.
• Conduct routine equipment rounds and analyze system performance.
• Respond to emergency situations and equipment alarms.

Skills

Electrical and HVAC experience

Communication skills

Critical environment operations

Mechanical systems knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED equivalent

Job description

Operating Engineer JLL

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.

Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you're looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

What this job involves:

As an Operating Engineer with JLL, you'll be at the forefront of maintaining and operating mission-critical infrastructure in research and specialized facilities where precision, safety, and uptime are paramount. This role puts you in charge of complex building systems that support cutting-edge research and operations—from emergency power systems and HVAC to fire suppression and building automation. You'll work in a high-stakes environment where your technical expertise and operational discipline directly impact business continuity and client confidence. This position offers the opportunity to work with sophisticated equipment, solve challenging technical problems, and be part of a team that ensures seamless facility operations 24/7. Your contributions keep critical environments running flawlessly, protecting both people and vital research operations.

What your day to day will look like:

• Operating and monitoring critical mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems including generators, UPS systems, chillers, HVAC equipment, and building automation systems to ensure continuous, reliable performance in research and mission-critical environments.
• Conducting routine equipment rounds, collecting operational data, and analyzing system performance to identify potential issues before they impact facility operations, documenting findings in the computerized maintenance management system.
• Executing preventive and corrective maintenance on both critical and non-critical equipment, including hands‑on repair work such as motor rebuilds, pump seal replacements, valve installations, and electrical troubleshooting to maintain optimal system reliability.
• Coordinating with third‑party contractors during maintenance activities, ensuring all work meets safety standards and compliance requirements while maintaining operational awareness of critical systems.
• Responding immediately to emergency situations, equipment alarms, and customer concerns, applying formal conduct of operations protocols to safely restore systems and minimize downtime.
• Managing fire alarm systems operations including enabling and disabling control panels during maintenance activities, ensuring life safety systems remain functional and compliant.
• Maintaining accurate work order documentation, ordering necessary materials and parts for repairs, and keeping workspace clean and organized according to safety regulations and hazardous materials handling procedures.

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum of four years of experience in critical environment operations, maintenance, and/or engineering.
• Minimum of four years of hands‑on experience in electrical and HVAC trades, including work with rooftop units and commercial HVAC systems.
• Minimum of four years of experience operating and maintaining backup power systems including generators and uninterruptible power systems (UPS).
• Comprehensive knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire suppression systems in commercial or critical facilities environments.
• Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written formats, including technical reports and documentation.
• Fundamental technical skills in critical infrastructure systems including emergency/standby generators, automatic transfer switches, uninterruptible power systems, power distribution units, and battery backup systems.
• Proficiency in basic computer applications and software including Microsoft Office, Microsoft Teams, email, and other standard business productivity tools.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Building Management Systems (BMS) or Building Automation Systems (BAS) including console operations, programming, and troubleshooting of HVAC controls and monitoring systems.
• Industry certifications such as EPA Universal Refrigeration Certification, electrical licensure, or specialized training in critical facilities management (CFPS, CEM, or similar credentials).
• Background working in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, data center, or research laboratory environments with understanding of cleanroom operations, environmental controls, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with fire detection and suppression systems including wet pipe, dry pipe, pre‑action, and clean agent systems, with ability to perform testing and maintenance activities.
• Active participation in professional trade organizations or completion of continuing education programs related to facilities engineering, demonstrating commitment to staying current with industry best practices and emerging technologies.
• Basic plumbing and piping skills including experience with process piping, laboratory gas systems, or specialized water treatment systems used in research environments.
• Experience with predictive maintenance techniques and technologies such as vibration analysis, thermography, or oil analysis to identify equipment issues before failure occurs.

Location:

On-site - This position requires regular on-site presence at the assigned research facility to monitor and maintain critical systems. San Diego, CA.

Estimated compensation for this position:

66,400.00 - 70,000.00 USD per year. This range is an estimate and actual compensation may differ. Final compensation packages are determined by various considerations including but not limited to candidate qualifications, location, market conditions, and internal considerations.

Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Jones Lang LaSalle ("JLL") is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. JLL is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides equal opportunity to all applicants.