American University · 3 weeks ago
Lead Operating Engineer
Washington, DC
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$43/hr - $48/hr
3+ years expAmerican University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with a strong reputation for creating meaningful change. The Lead Operating Engineer oversees the work of Operating Engineers and other trade staff, ensuring efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of campus utility systems while providing exceptional customer service.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Serves as Team Lead. Schedules work assignments, sets priorities, and directs the work of Operating Engineers and Assistant Operating Engineers. Identifies staff training needs and ensures training is obtained
Participates in the operation, maintenance (preventative and predictive), troubleshooting, and repair of campus thermal systems (including but not limited to steam, chilled water, and heating water), related plant equipment, water treatment systems (including but not limited to natatorium systems, boiler systems, and chiller systems) as well as maintenance and repair of domestic water & sewer campus distribution systems, and campus gas utility distribution systems to assure the fitness for use and reliability of our buildings, systems and equipment. Operates and maintains systems to meet department, reliability, and energy efficiency objectives along with regulatory compliance requirements
Maintains records pertaining to the inspection, operation, maintenance and repair of campus thermal systems, campus domestic water & sewer distribution systems, campus gas distribution systems, water treatment systems, and related plant equipment to build a database from which historical data can be used to maximize scheduling and repair of critical components of the heating and cooling systems. Makes recommendations to improve the efficiency and reliability of campus managed utility systems. Responsible for the proper storage and usage of tools and equipment used in the repair operations conducted by the position to have tools available and in proper operating condition when needed
Performs facilities commissioning activities (e.g., reviewing of new and upgraded mechanical equipment or systems) to ensure that operational, maintenance, repair, and energy efficiency impacts on the Central Plant Operations and Energy and Engineering units are minimized
Completes training and performance requirements to meet department goals as well as regulatory requirements. Maintains an IDP (Individual Development Plan). Ensures all items are documented in the LMS (Learning Management System)
Supports the resolution of afterhours and weekend requests received though the customer response center line (2Fix)
Prepares accident/incident reports and documentation for recommended corrective actions related to the Staff HR Policy manual
Qualification
Required
High school diploma or equivalent
3 - 5 years of relevant experience
At least 2 years' experience working in a plant having high pressure steam boilers not to exceed four hundred (400) horsepower or a combination of high pressure boilers and heating boilers or refrigeration equipment, not to exceed a total of four hundred (400) horsepower; a heating plant having low pressure steam boilers with a pump return and refrigeration equipment, with no limitation on total capacity; or a heating plant having hot water boilers and refrigeration equipment, with no limitation on total capacity
At least 1 year of experience as an assistant engineer in charge of a 3rd Class plant or as a Class 2 steam engineer
3rd Class DC Steam Engineer's license (non-restricted) by the date of hire
Must possess a current and valid United States driver's license at the time of hire and be able to obtain and maintain University driving privileges
Thorough knowledge of and the ability to perform complex technical tasks to support the operation, maintenance, and repair of site-specific utility systems
Ability to understand blueprints, general engineering drawings, and complex technical manuals
Thorough knowledge of the tools, equipment, regulations, and procedures relevant to site-specific systems
Proficiency in all site-specific systems
Knowledge of arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, fractions, roots, exponents, and the ability to perform math operations based on word problems), decimals, length, area, and volume measurement
An understanding of the fundamental principles of thermodynamics, chemistry, and energy efficiency relevant to the work performed
Working knowledge of BAS and ability to independently resolve moderately complex problems
Ability to independently resolve complex technical problems and serve as a point of escalation for moderately complex problem resolution
Ability to schedule work assignments, set priorities, train, and direct the work of others, and ensure adherence to quality standards and timelines
Ability to motivate others by personal example and by direct coaching to increase their abilities to demonstrate respectful and compassionate interaction
Ability to express oneself orally in a clear and concise manner, seek and deliver constructive feedback, and adapt communication style to the task and audience
Ability to produce clear, technically accurate, and accessible written materials on complex topics
Demonstrated commitment to self-awareness and desire to continuously improve one's ability to interact with others in a respectful and compassionate way
Ability to use Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to prepare briefings, reports, and presentations
Ability to lift and carry 50lbs
Ability to climb ladders and work at heights
Ability to work in confined spaces and areas with temperature extremes
Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age by the date of hire
Interest in and commitment to ongoing professional development and training
Preferred
Facilities Management Certificate
LEED Green Associate
Benefits
200% matching retirement plan
Tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families
Several leadership development certificates
Recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite
Company
American University
American University's historic academic strengths are rooted in social responsibility and our dedication to cultural and intellectual diversity.
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
American University has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (13)
2024 (20)
2023 (7)
2022 (17)
2021 (9)
2020 (18)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Rodrigo Yepez-Lopez
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Katie Benoit
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Recent News
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