Operating Engineer 1
Description
Job Summary: Portland’5 Centers for the Arts, operated by Metro, is one of the nation’s largest performing arts centers, managing five iconic venues in downtown Portland. As an Operating Engineer I , you’ll support the safe and reliable operation of building systems that power world-class performances. This event-driven role is ideal if you thrive in a fast-paced environment and bring strong mechanical expertise, with work primarily focused on HVAC and electrical systems and exposure to a wide range of technical building systems. This position supports event operations, with scheduling based on business needs predominantly in the evenings and on weekends. Success in this role requires flexibility, reliability, strong attendance, effective communication across departments, and the ability to collaborate with multiple trades and clearly explain technical information to diverse audiences.
Job Responsibilities: As an Operating Engineer I you will:
- Maintain and troubleshoot HVAC systems: including air handlers, boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, fans, controls, and associated PLC/automation systems, using building drawings and documentation.
- Service plumbing and hydronic systems: including piping, valves, drainage, and potable/non-potable water systems.
- Support life and fire safety systems: coordinating inspections and maintenance for sprinklers, alarms, suppression systems, and related equipment.
- Perform general mechanical and building trades work: including doors, hardware, glazing, structural finishes, and minor carpentry; welding/brazing experience is a plus.
- Maintain kitchen and refrigeration equipment as needed.
- Assist with low-voltage infrastructure: including basic troubleshooting of network/data cabling tied to building systems.
- Use maintenance and work order systems to track repairs, review system data, and support efficient operation of building assets.
- Follow and promote safety standards: including OSHA practices, lockout/tagout, PPE use, and hazard awareness.
Required Skills and Qualifications: Minimum qualifications:
- One year of experience as an operating engineer in a large facility or Maintenance Technician in a medium to large commercial facility, OR We will consider any combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties and responsibilities of the position.
- Possession of a valid driver's license.
- Able to work a variety of shifts including weekdays, daylight hours, evenings, weekends and holidays as required.
- Ability to successfully pass a background and driving check.
Shift and schedule: This position offers flexibility by operating on a business needs type schedule, allowing you to balance work with your personal commitment. You’ll have the opportunity to support our team primarily during days. Additional opportunities may come up to help during nights, weekends, and holidays as needed, with your schedule adapting to the operational needs and special events at the Portland’5 Centers for the Arts.
Working Conditions: This role requires working in a wide range of mechanical and facility environments, including exposure to physical, electrical, chemical, thermal and ergonomic hazards typical of building trades work. Duties may involve lifting, climbing, confined spaces, and operating mechanical equipment. A strong commitment to safety, adherence to established protocols, and timely reporting of hazards are essential to maintaining a safe work environment.
Preferred Skills and Qualifications: You do not need to have the following preferred qualifications/transferable skills to qualify. However, keep in mind we may consider some or all of the following when identifying the most qualified candidates. Your transferable skills are any skills you have gained through education, work experience, including the military, or life experience that are relevant for this position.
- OSHA-10 or OSHA-30 certificate
- Moving Elevated Work Platform or scaffolding authorized person certificate of training
- Heavy equipment or forklift authorized person certificate of training
- Universal CFC/EPA Certificate Brazing or Welding Certificate
- HVAC trade-school certification equivalent or more
- Niagara or other BAS (Building Automation System) training certificate
- Fall Protection Certificate of training
- Lock Technician or Locksmith Certificate
- Network Infrastructure or Security Certificate or Knowledge of basic TCP/IP networking hardware and physical infrastructure
- Mechanical experience from military role
- Preference provided to those with strong ability to work in the daytime hours to support core operational needs.
Compensation: $39.13 - $40.98 Hourly
Apply Online: If interested in this opportunity please visit our website and submit an application by the closing date of 5/31/2026. Here is the direct link to the page to apply. https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/oregonmetro/jobs/5345834/operating-engineer-i-variable-hour?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs