Operations Engineer Mechanical

Location: Colorado Springs, CO (United States Air Force Academy)

Type: Exempt

Work Schedule: Full Time, Day Shift. On-call work may also be required based on operational needs.

Compensation: $105,000 - $115,000 annually, dependent on experience

Deadline: September 18, 2026

Benefits: Tessera is proud to offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package to our eligible part-time and full-time employees.

Full-Time benefits of an Operations Engineer Mechanical at Tessera include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) retirement plan, Life & Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts for both medical and dependent care
• 11 paid federal holidays, paid time off, & paid sick leave
• Potential shared earning bonus
• Tuition assistance is available after 1 year of employment and potential scholarships for qualified dependents
• Professional development, certifications, and training opportunities
• Verizon wireless discount
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and an engaging wellness program
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for full-time employees

Tessera is dedicated to “Creating Opportunities for People with Disabilities” by hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities as well as veterans with disabilities. We take pride in our purpose-driven culture, our core values - Inclusion, Partnerships, Integrity - and our commitment to providing a safe and respectful work environment to our employees.

Tessera is seeking a dedicated Mechanical Engineer to support the maintenance and optimization of mechanical systems across campus facilities. This role plays a vital part in ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operations, while contributing to energy-saving initiatives and long-term infrastructure reliability. Tessera values individuals who bring a proactive mindset, strong problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of facilities support.

Typical duties include but are not limited to:

• Oversee HVAC, plumbing, pumps, boilers, and other mechanical systems across campus facilities. 
• Plan and execute repair, replacement, and upgrade projects; manage contractors and timelines. 
• Work with shop craftsmen and develop relationships with craftsmen – to be the liaison between the Engineering Branch engineers and the shop craftsmen. 
• Conduct root cause analysis, performance testing, and preventive maintenance to reduce downtime.
• Work with civil, electrical, and environmental engineers to deliver integrated solutions. 
• Implement sustainable practices and optimize mechanical performance for cost and energy savings. 
• Prepare statements of work, cost estimates, and alternatives for initial review of requirements.
• Prepare reports and presentations to explain the pros and cons of project alternatives. 
• Complete in-house designs for small-scale projects. 
• Ensure systems meet DoD, OSHA, and environmental standards; support audits and documentation. 
• Assist in the planning and design of mechanical systems (machines, equipment, and tools), following construction and government standards using software and drawing tools as available. 
• Identify and resolve mechanical issues within existing systems. 
• Lead and participate in designated Sub-AMPs and all associated processes. 
• Lead asset inventory, condition assessment – including SMS. 
• Lead reliability processes including RCA, PM Optimization. 
• Identify and prioritize repair and recap projects.  Develop job plan and manage selected projects.
• Exhibits excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills  to apprise senior management and the board of project status, risks, issues, and concerns. 
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: 

• BS in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) from an ABET accredited university.
• 3-5 years experience in mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering fields.
• Certified Plant Engineer (CPE) by the Association for Facilities Engineering preferred.
• Strong background in mechanical system design, cost estimating, project management, and corrosion control.
• Hands-on experience with facilities maintenance, code compliance reviews, and sustainable design practices.
• Proficient in direct digital and pneumatic controls, fire protection systems, HVAC/R systems, and central heat plant operations including High Temp Hot Water generation and distribution.

Physical Requirements:

Employees must have the ability to perform the following physical demands for extended periods of time with or without assistance. The physical demands of this position may be reasonably accommodated for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions on a case-by-case basis. 

• May be required to reach, kneel, walk, stand, and use repetitive motion for several hours at a time based on position duties.
• Work may require repetitive motion, reaching, lifting, kneeling, and walking. Standing or sitting for several hours at a time, climbing in and out of a vehicle, and up and down stairs may also be required.
• Must have the perseverance to work effectively under pressure for extended periods of time.

Requirements:

• A valid state driver’s license is required with the ability to obtain and maintain coverage by Tessera’s insurance.
• Access to a federal military installation requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, in accordance with the REAL ID Act. Please visit this website for more information: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearances and installation access. A background check and E-Verify will be conducted for this position.

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*** Access to a federal military installation requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, in accordance with the REAL ID Act.

Please visit this website for more information: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.

To Apply: Visit our website at www.tessera.org to complete an application.

Current Employees: need to log into their Workday to apply through the Jobs Hub. Please reach out to your Recruiter if you need assistance.

Tessera is a national non-profit, government contractor that is dedicated to “Creating Opportunities for People with Disabilities” through hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. We take pride in our mission-focused culture, our Core Values, Diversity, Partnership, Commitment, Integrity, and Quality, and our dedication to providing a safe and respectful work environment to our employees.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Tessera is here to help you with the recruitment process. 

If you require an accommodation or support, please contact us at

(360) 475-0756 ext. 349, or email [email protected].

Tessera is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled - Tessera participates in E-Verify