Operating Maintenance Engineer

The Port of Seattle is a prominent public agency responsible for managing and operating a diverse set of transportation facilities and services, including one of the largest and busiest airports and seaports on the West Coast of the United States. Located in the vibrant Pacific Northwest region, it plays a crucial role in promoting economic development, facilitating trade and travel, and enhancing quality of life in the greater Seattle area. The Port is committed to environmental sustainability, equity, and innovation, striving to ensure that all communities benefit from its activities. As a public entity, the Port of Seattle manages a wide range of properties and infrastructure, from major airports to container terminals, parks, and office buildings. Its mission-oriented approach emphasizes accountability, equity, and responsible stewardship of public assets.

This position is for an Operating Maintenance Engineer within AV Mechanical Systems at Seattle Tacoma International Airport. It is a full-time, regular employment opportunity offering a competitive salary starting at $65.40 per hour for Grade 3, equating to approximately $136,032 per year. Candidates with a City of Seattle Grade 2 Steam Engineer License qualify for an increased pay rate of $67.75 per hour or $140,920 annually. The role requires operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing complex mechanical utility systems across airport facilities and other Port properties. Responsibilities include working with boilers, chillers, air compressors, pumps, refrigeration systems, diesel generators, HVAC, direct digital control systems, domestic water, and hydraulic systems. Preventative maintenance tasks, such as servicing air handlers and variable air volume boxes and controlling fans and dampers, are integral parts of the role to ensure system reliability and safety.

Candidates are expected to have strong technical knowledge and demonstrated journey-level experience of at least five years in multifaceted maintenance environments. Essential licenses include a High School Diploma or equivalent, a City of Seattle Grade 3 or higher Steam Engineer License, Refrigeration Operator License or Journeyman Mechanic Grade A or C License, and Section 608 EPA CFC Universal License. The Port encourages professional development, providing 12 months for new hires to obtain the Grade 2 Steam Engineer License and awarding pay premiums for such qualifications. Desired additional certifications include Cross Connection Specialist (CCS), Backflow Assembly Tester (BAT), Operator In Training (OIT), NICET, WABO, and plumbing qualifications. The role values experience in indoor air quality monitoring, metal fabrication, and knowledge of relevant codes.

The Port of Seattle is deeply committed to equity, expecting employees to exemplify shared values and equitable practices consistently. The candidate must be adaptable, able to navigate shifting priorities, and be a strong communicator capable of maintaining clear, accurate logs and working collaboratively with diverse teams across organizational levels. A valid Washington State Driver's License is mandatory, as the role may require travel to various sites. The work schedule involves 4x10 shifts with potential weekend and holiday work, including emergency response duties. The work environment can include indoor and outdoor settings, exposing employees to noise, hazardous materials, heights, and confined spaces, with all necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) provided.

Additional employment conditions include residency requirements within Washington State, union representation under the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 302, safety and security clearances including Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background checks, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) checks, and acquiring a Port of Seattle ID and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Customs Seal. The Port offers a robust benefits package that supports health care, vacation, sick leave, holidays, retirement planning, and professional growth opportunities, fostering a balanced work-life culture and emphasizing the mission of equitable economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and community enrichment.