Position Summary
The Operating Engineer is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of all building systems at Life Science Plaza, a Class-A medical and life science facility operating in a 24/7 environment. This position requires strong technical expertise in at least one core trade (HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing/Piping, or Central Plant Operations) while maintaining working knowledge across all major building systems.
- Operate and maintain mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural, and life-safety systems.
- Monitor central plant equipment including chilled water systems, pumps, cooling towers, and controls.
- Perform preventative maintenance in accordance with manufacturer and Newmark standards.
- Record equipment readings and complete CMMS work orders accurately.
- Troubleshoot equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
- Respond to building emergencies including fire alarms, water leaks, and power interruptions.
- Escort and monitor vendors and contractors to ensure quality and safety compliance.
- Respond to tenant service requests in a timely and professional manner.
- Identify opportunities to improve system efficiency and reduce operating costs.
Job Description
Operating Engineer – Job Description
Property: Life Science Plaza
Location: Houston, Texas
The Operating Engineer is responsible for the safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of all building systems at Life Science Plaza, a Class-A medical and life science facility operating in a 24/7 environment. This position requires strong technical expertise in at least one core trade (HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing/Piping, or Central Plant Operations) while maintaining working knowledge across all major building systems.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural, and life-safety systems.
- Monitor central plant equipment including chilled water systems, pumps, cooling towers, and controls.
- Perform preventative maintenance in accordance with manufacturer and Newmark standards.
- Record equipment readings and complete CMMS work orders accurately.
- Troubleshoot equipment failures and implement corrective actions.
- Respond to building emergencies including fire alarms, water leaks, and power interruptions.
- Escort and monitor vendors and contractors to ensure quality and safety compliance.
- Respond to tenant service requests in a timely and professional manner.
- Identify opportunities to improve system efficiency and reduce operating costs.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- 2–5 years commercial building operations experience preferred.
- Experience in medical, laboratory, or mission-critical facilities preferred.
CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES
- Valid U.S. Driver’s License required.
- EPA Universal Certification preferred.
- SMT, SMA, BOMI, or equivalent certifications preferred.
- OSHA training preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Strong understanding of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
- Ability to read blueprints and technical manuals.
- Experience with Building Automation Systems (BAS).
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word and Excel).
- Strong troubleshooting and communication skills.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to lift up to 80 pounds.
- Frequent walking in large campus-style environments.
- Climbing ladders up to 30 feet and working from heights.
- Bending, kneeling, stooping, and working overhead.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- This position supports a 24/7 operational facility.
- Shift work is required, including day, evening, and overnight rotations as assigned.
- Weekend and holiday work is required based on operational needs.
- Participation in on-call rotation for emergency response may be required.
- Work is performed in mechanical rooms, rooftops, and other industrial environments.