Operating Engineer

The Metropolitan Airports Commission is seeking talented Operating Engineers to join our team. Located in Terminal 1 at the MSP International Airport, our Operating Engineers experience variety on the job while working in a dynamic environment. Alternating weekly between the role of field operator and control room operator, our team is hands-on with building automation systems, high pressure boilers, steam turbines, chillers, air handlers, cooling towers, pumps, fans, and more

With your MN First Class A or MN Chief A Engineer license, you can become part of our exceptional, efficient, team-oriented crew of professional HVAC Operating Engineers

BASE PAY AND DIFFERENTIALS
(Rates and Differentials are subject to Commission Approval in January 2026)
Hourly Rates
Year
MN 1st Class A Engineer Licensure (Base Rate)
MN Chief Engineer A Licensure
(Base Rate + Differential)
2026 $53.349 $ $54.950 $ $56.873 $58.373

Differentials (in Addition To Base Pay)

• Control Room Operator $1.80 / hour. Increases to $2.00 / hour in 2027.
• Second Shift $1.25 / hour
• Third Shift $2.25 / hour
• MN Chief A License $1.50 / hour

Excellent Benefits Package
This position is covered by the collective bargaining unit agreement between the MAC and the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 70.

Job Summary
The MAC's Operating Engineers work with computerized building automation systems, high pressure boilers (steam and hydronic), steam turbines, chillers, pumps, fans, air handlers, and cooling towers. In addition, Operating Engineers may provide on-the-job training and work instruction to other Energy Management Center personnel.

The ideal candidate will have the required State of MN Boiler Operator License (or be eligible within 30 days of contingent offer), which includes three years of experience with high and low pressure steam and hot water boilers, seasonal boiler inspections and repair, experience working with chemical treatment systems, and experience and training in the operation and maintenance of steam turbines.

This position also requires interaction with airport tenants, the general public, and fellow co-workers so the ideal candidate will also be friendly and courteous and have a history of fostering positive working relationships through team-work, collaboration, and communication.

WORK SHIFTS
The shifts, listed below, are bid on an annual basis by seniority. Second and third shifts receive differential pay (see "Differentials" above).

• First Shift 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Second Shift 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Third Shift 11:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m.

Duty Rotation / Schedule
While remaining on their assigned shift, the Operating Engineer will rotate between the roles of Field Operator and Control Room Operator. The Field Operator will work 7 days, then off 2 days and upon return will be assigned as the Control Room Operator for a period of 8 days, then will have 4 days off. The Control Room Operator receives differential pay (see "Differentials" above).

To apply:
click the "Apply" link located just above the position description, log-in, and follow the instructions provided.

Questions regarding this position can be directed to or Applications will be accepted until
3:00 p.m. Wednesday
, January 14, 2026
.

MAC complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If an accommodation is required for you to participate in the application process because of a disability or you have questions regarding the application process, contact the Diversity Department at or

MAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, nationality, or disability.

Boiler Operation

• Operate and maintain high and low pressure steam and hot water boilers
• Conduct routine inspections and perform preventative maintenance on boilers, safety equipment and other equipment
• Prepare boilers for inspections
• Change boilers to alternative fuels, oil & jet fuel from natural gas
• Control operation and adjustment of water softeners, feed water systems, fuel oil, jet fuel pumps, etc.
• Perform chemical analysis of boiler water, test and treat condensate return, and accurately prepare reports
• Observe related boiler equipment; makes necessary adjustments and repairs
• Perform emergency repairs to boilers or related equipment as directed
• Order and receive deliveries of oil and jet fuel

Turbine Operation

• Operate high pressure steam turbines
• Conduct routine inspections and perform preventative and corrective maintenance on steam power turbines
• Start up, synchronize, and shut down, turbines; make adjustments and calibrations

Chiller Operation

• Operate chiller compressors (reciprocating and centrifugal), cooling towers, and related equipment
• Start up, shut down, inspect, and perform preventative maintenance on cooling towers systems, pumps, valves, etc.
• Perform chemical analysis of chiller loop water and condenser water, treat and accurately prepare reports

Building Automation

• Regularly scan heating and cooling systems; troubleshoot electronic and pneumatic control centers; make adjustments to maintain proper climate controls
• Control ventilating equipment in vehicle tunnels
• Respond to alarms, identify malfunctions or abnormal operation of equipment and facilities; make necessary adjustments or emergency repairs and inform proper authorities

Building Maintenance

• Perform preventative maintenance on HVAC units
• Maintain and repair heating and cooling systems
• Perform emergency assistance with vendors during equipment or other energy management failures affecting terminal operation

Miscellaneous Duties

• Maintain safe and clean facilities
• Read charts, gauges, levels, and temperatures for all systems; accurately document data as required
• Maintain daily log on equipment performance and plant activities
• Operate computerized preventative maintenance program
• Complete other duties as assigned

Individual Contributor (IC) Competencies

• Customer Focus - Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions
• Decision Quality - Making good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving forward
• Action Oriented – Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm
• Optimizes Work Processes - Knowing the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement
• Ensures Accountability - Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments
• Collaborates - Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives
• Values Differences - Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization
• Communicates Effectively - Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of unique needs of different audiences
• Courage - Stepping up to address difficult issues, saying what needs to be said
• Instills Trust - Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity
• Self-Development - Actively seeking new ways to grow and be challenged using both formal and informal development channels
• Situational Adaptability - Adapting approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Current State of Minnesota First Class A Engineers License or able to obtain one within 30 days of contingent offer
• Valid state-issued driver's license
• Good mathematical aptitude
• Experience working with chemical treatment systems
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of steam turbines
• Basic skill level in word processing and email computer functions
• Willing to respond to emergency calls seven days a week on a 24-hour basis
• Ability to clearly communicate, understand, and write using the English language
• Ability to lift, position and pull up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work within small and confined spaces from ladders/lifts at varying heights
• Willing and able to obtain and maintain MAC required licenses and certifications

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience with the operation and maintenance of large heating and cooling facility, including boiler and chiller plants, and steam turbines
• Valid State of Minnesota Chief Engineer "A" License
• Valid Universal Refrigeration Certificate
• Knowledge and experience with building automation systems, including HVAC
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and experience with dismantling, repairing, and assembling boilers, chillers, air-conditioning systems, and all related equipment
• Skilled in the operation of computer systems for CMMS and other facilities maintenance systems
• Skilled at reading and interpreting blueprints, electrical schematic drawings, and work orders

If offered employment, applicant must pass MAC's thorough pre-employment background process. Successful candidates must be able to obtain and maintain an airport badge. This includes fingerprinting, providing acceptable identification, and a criminal history review. More information regarding the badging process can be found at Badging | My MSP Connect.