Operations Engineer

Operating Engineer – Job Description

Property: Life Science Plaza

Location: Houston, Texas

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.

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.