Operating Engineer Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Operating Engineer roles in construction, utilities, and industrial facilities can qualify for H-1B visa or EB-3 visa sponsorship when tied to a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Employers in heavy infrastructure, energy, and facilities management file Labor Condition Applications regularly for these positions.
Find Operating Engineer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 57+ Operating Engineer jobs
See all 57+ Operating Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Operating Engineer roles.
Get Access To All JobsJob Title
Lead Operating Engineer
Job Description Summary
Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and maintenance of the mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all necessary maintenance and operational tasks are developed to assure maximum life and reliability of all mechanical/ electrical/plumbing systems. Typically, this position does not have a Chief Engineer on-site at the building and is sometimes the solo engineer at the building. This position may also include the supervision of maintenance staff at the building depending on the size and complexity of the assignment.
Job Description
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist with or conduct the daily operations and maintenance of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and general maintenance requirements for the buildings
- Supervise maintenance staff when applicable and assign, and monitor maintenance activities and projects
- Perform preventive maintenance duties, including changing filters, lubricating motors, replacing lamps, ballasts and fixtures, inspecting and adjusting belts, replacing motor bearings, aligning shafts, and other inspections and maintenance recommended by equipment manufacturers
- Recommend improvements to the preventive maintenance program on an ongoing basis
- Develop and maintain effective building-specific maintenance procedures
- Coordinate maintenance efforts with outside contractors and technicians
- Maintain stock and inventory control
- Respond immediately to emergency situations (fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.) and customer concerns
- Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as related to building operations and practice safe work habits
- Ensure management team is informed of current building operations by compiling and submitting monthly reports
- Complete all required C&W Safety Training as scheduled annually
- Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code while working and maintain a neat and clean appearance while on the property at times other than working hours
KEY COMPETENCIES
- Communication Proficiency (oral and written)
- Organization Skills
- Technical Proficiency
- Decision Making
- Problem Solving/Analysis
IMPORTANT EDUCATION
- High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
- Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred
IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE
- 5+ years of related trade experience in operating mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
- Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, i.e. Journeyman or Master Electrician License, City Licenses, Operators License, Steam Engineers License, etc.
- Possess a valid “Universal” level certification for CFC and HFC based refrigerants (EPA Section 608); to service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release ozone depleting refrigerants to the atmosphere or any similar combination of education and experience
- Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and good driving record with periodic checks
- Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word
- Experience in operation, maintenance and basic repair of HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, water systems, etc.
- Knowledgeable in energy management systems, techniques and operations
- Thorough knowledge in all building systems operations, maintenance and repair
May be only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts; may be required to work extended periods of time without relief when responding to priority/emergency situations (including overtime type assignments); may require shift work and/or on call duties.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Regularly required to travel outside between properties in varying weather conditions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
- Must have ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs. of equipment (pumps, tools, ladders) and safely install rigging/lifting devices
- Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine
- Involves movement between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work
- Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you
- Ability to read and understand information presented orally and in writing
- Regularly required to utilize vision abilities, allowing reading of printed material, drawings, and schematics
OTHER DUTIES
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate’s experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $26.27 - $30.90
Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or email Accommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.
Job Title
Lead Operating Engineer
Job Description Summary
Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and maintenance of the mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The performance of all necessary maintenance and operational tasks are developed to assure maximum life and reliability of all mechanical/ electrical/plumbing systems. Typically, this position does not have a Chief Engineer on-site at the building and is sometimes the solo engineer at the building. This position may also include the supervision of maintenance staff at the building depending on the size and complexity of the assignment.
Job Description
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist with or conduct the daily operations and maintenance of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and general maintenance requirements for the buildings
- Supervise maintenance staff when applicable and assign, and monitor maintenance activities and projects
- Perform preventive maintenance duties, including changing filters, lubricating motors, replacing lamps, ballasts and fixtures, inspecting and adjusting belts, replacing motor bearings, aligning shafts, and other inspections and maintenance recommended by equipment manufacturers
- Recommend improvements to the preventive maintenance program on an ongoing basis
- Develop and maintain effective building-specific maintenance procedures
- Coordinate maintenance efforts with outside contractors and technicians
- Maintain stock and inventory control
- Respond immediately to emergency situations (fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.) and customer concerns
- Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as related to building operations and practice safe work habits
- Ensure management team is informed of current building operations by compiling and submitting monthly reports
- Complete all required C&W Safety Training as scheduled annually
- Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code while working and maintain a neat and clean appearance while on the property at times other than working hours
KEY COMPETENCIES
- Communication Proficiency (oral and written)
- Organization Skills
- Technical Proficiency
- Decision Making
- Problem Solving/Analysis
IMPORTANT EDUCATION
- High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
- Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred
IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE
- 5+ years of related trade experience in operating mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
- Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, i.e. Journeyman or Master Electrician License, City Licenses, Operators License, Steam Engineers License, etc.
- Possess a valid “Universal” level certification for CFC and HFC based refrigerants (EPA Section 608); to service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release ozone depleting refrigerants to the atmosphere or any similar combination of education and experience
- Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and good driving record with periodic checks
- Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word
- Experience in operation, maintenance and basic repair of HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, water systems, etc.
- Knowledgeable in energy management systems, techniques and operations
- Thorough knowledge in all building systems operations, maintenance and repair
May be only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts; may be required to work extended periods of time without relief when responding to priority/emergency situations (including overtime type assignments); may require shift work and/or on call duties.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Regularly required to travel outside between properties in varying weather conditions.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
- Must have ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs. of equipment (pumps, tools, ladders) and safely install rigging/lifting devices
- Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine
- Involves movement between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work
- Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you
- Ability to read and understand information presented orally and in writing
- Regularly required to utilize vision abilities, allowing reading of printed material, drawings, and schematics
OTHER DUTIES
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate’s experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $26.27 - $30.90
Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or email Accommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.
See all 57+ Operating Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Operating Engineer roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as an Operating Engineer
Verify your degree meets specialty occupation
Operating Engineer roles split between licensed trades and degreed engineering positions. USCIS requires a direct link between your degree field and the job duties. A civil, mechanical, or industrial engineering degree gives you the strongest specialty occupation argument.
Target infrastructure and energy employers first
Utilities, power generation, water treatment, and large construction management firms file LCAs for Operating Engineer positions far more consistently than smaller contractors. Focus your applications on employers in these sectors where federal project requirements make sponsorship more routine.
Check prevailing wage tiers before accepting an offer
Use the OFLC Wage Search to look up the prevailing wage for Operating Engineer in your target metro area. Your offered salary must meet the Level I through Level IV threshold that matches your experience, and that figure locks into your LCA before filing.
Use Migrate Mate to find verified sponsors
Search Migrate Mate for employers with confirmed LCA filing history for Operating Engineer roles. Focusing on companies that have already filed reduces the risk of employers who express interest but stall when sponsorship paperwork begins.
Prepare your professional engineering license documentation early
Many Operating Engineer sponsorship cases involve a PE license or state certification. Gather your license certificates, continuing education records, and any project documentation before the offer stage so your employer's immigration counsel can build a complete specialty occupation argument.
Understand the EB-3 PERM timeline for permanent roles
If your employer offers a permanent position, the PERM labor certification process through DOL can take a year or more before an I-140 petition is filed. Align your H-1B or other nonimmigrant status expiration dates with this timeline so you don't face a gap in work authorization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an Operating Engineer role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B?
It depends on how the position is defined. If the role requires at least a bachelor's degree in mechanical, civil, industrial, or a related engineering field as a standard entry requirement, USCIS will typically recognize it as a specialty occupation. Roles described as equipment operators or trades positions without a degree requirement don't qualify, so the job description and employer documentation are critical.
Which visa categories apply to Operating Engineer sponsorship candidates?
H-1B is the primary option for degreed candidates, requiring a specialty occupation tie to your engineering degree. EB-3 skilled worker is available for permanent roles through the PERM process and covers positions requiring at least two years of training or experience. TN visa is not available for Operating Engineer roles, as that occupation doesn't appear on the USMCA profession list.
How do I find employers who actively sponsor Operating Engineer visas?
Migrate Mate lists employers with verified LCA filing history for Operating Engineer positions, so you can focus on companies that have already navigated the sponsorship process for this role type. This filters out employers who may be open in theory but lack the institutional experience to follow through on sponsorship.
Does a professional engineering license affect my visa sponsorship eligibility?
A PE license strengthens your specialty occupation argument considerably because it signals that the role requires specialized technical knowledge beyond a general degree. USCIS adjudicators look at whether the position normally requires a specific degree, and a PE license requirement on the job posting supports that standard. It doesn't replace the degree requirement, but it reinforces the connection between your credentials and the role.
What happens to my visa status if my Operating Engineer contract ends between projects?
H-1B holders have a 60-day grace period after their employment ends to find a new sponsoring employer, change status, or leave the country. If you're between project assignments but still employed by the same firm, your status remains valid. You can also transfer your H-1B to a new employer once a new petition is filed, without waiting for USCIS approval before starting.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Operating Engineer jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.