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Arctic Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Arctic Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$47.9K

$151.3K

$179.2K

How much do arctic engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for arctic engineering in Chicago, IL is $151,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Arctic engineer?

An Arctic Engineering job involves designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure in cold and extreme environments. Engineers in this field work on projects such as buildings, transportation systems, and energy facilities that must withstand freezing temperatures, permafrost, and ice loads. They apply specialized knowledge of materials, insulation, and structural stability to ensure safety and efficiency in Arctic conditions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an Arctic engineer?

To thrive in Arctic Engineering, you need a solid background in civil, mechanical, or environmental engineering, with specialized knowledge of cold-region design principles and materials. Familiarity with tools like CAD software, geotechnical analysis platforms, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or specific Arctic engineering training are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills are essential, given the challenging and often remote work environments. These capabilities ensure projects are safe, efficient, and sustainable despite extreme climatic and logistical obstacles.

What unique challenges do Arctic engineers face, and how do they overcome them?

Arctic Engineers often work in extreme temperatures, remote locations, and logistically complex environments where standard engineering solutions may not apply. Challenges include ground stability issues due to permafrost, limited daylight, transportation constraints, and the need to design for resilience against harsh weather. Teams rely heavily on close collaboration, meticulous planning, and adaptive design techniques, often integrating local knowledge and innovative technologies. Overcoming these challenges requires a strong team-oriented mindset and a commitment to continuous learning, making the work both demanding and uniquely rewarding.

How much do Arctic engineers make?

Arctic engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the specific industry sector. Salaries can be higher for those with specialized skills in cold climate operations, project management, or advanced engineering tools. Compensation may also vary based on location and the complexity of Arctic projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Arctic Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Arctic Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Arctic Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Arctic Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Arctic Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Arctic Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Arctic Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Arctic Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,295 per year, or $72.7 per hour.

Resident Engineer - Municipal

Michael Baker International

Chicago, IL

$111K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Oversee day-to-day construction activities for municipal infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with plans, specifications, and contract requirements

  • Serve as the primary on-site representative for the client, protecting the owner's interests throughout construction

  • Lead construction meetings, coordinate communications, and manage quality, safety, and schedule performance across projects

Michael Baker International rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 453 rated engineering

Job description

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES PRACTICE

Michael Baker International's Construction Services staff supports clients by acting as their trusted on-site representative throughout all phases of construction-from pre-construction through close-out-by providing experienced construction managers, resident engineers, inspectors, and technical specialists.

What We're Looking For:

Michael Baker International is seeking a Resident Engineer - Municipal / Local Agency to support construction delivery for municipal infrastructure projects across the Chicago region.  This role acts as the owner's on-site representative for roadway, utility, and drainage projects delivered through IDOT BLRS and locally funded programs. The ideal candidate is delivery-focused, leads field teams, and works directly with municipalities and contractors to drive successful project outcomes.  You will manage projects independently, lead client-facing meetings, and ensure high-quality delivery that builds long-term client relationships. The position starts with oversight of a small inspection team and offers opportunities to mentor staff and grow the team.

This is a full-time role with a strong project backlog and a clear path to advancement into Construction Manager-level leadership.

What You'll Do:

Lead Construction Delivery

  • Oversee day-to-day construction activities for municipal infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with plans, specifications, and contract requirements
  • Serve as the primary on-site representative for the client, protecting the owner's interests throughout construction
  • Manage quality, safety, and schedule performance across one or more active projects
  • Proactively resolve field issues and coordinate with contractors and stakeholders

Municipal & IDOT Coordination

  • Administer projects in accordance with IDOT BLRS and local agency requirements
  • Coordinate with IDOT District 1, municipalities, and funding agencies
  • Ensure compliance with federally funded and MFT project requirements

Contract Administration & Documentation

  • Administer construction contracts including pay estimates, change orders, RFIs, and closeout documentation
  • Review contractor schedules, shop drawings, and submittals for compliance 
  • Maintain accurate documentation including daily reports, meeting minutes, and project records 

Client & Contractor Leadership

  • Act as the key liaison between municipalities, contractors, utilities, and agencies
  • Lead construction meetings and coordinate communications with confidence and independence
  • Develop strong working relationships that support repeat municipal work and long-term partnerships

Team Leadership & Development

  • Lead a small team of inspectors, providing direction, oversight, and mentorship
  • Support development of junior staff into senior inspectors and future Resident Engineers
  • Assist with staffing and team growth as municipal construction workload expands

Quality, Safety & Risk Management

  • Promote a strong safety culture and compliance with project safety requirements
  • Identify risks and implement proactive solutions related to construction, cost, and schedule
  • Ensure consistent quality control and adherence to contract documents

What You Need to Succeed:

  • Bachelor's in Civil or Construction Engineering (preferred)
  • 10+ years of construction inspection/resident engineering experience, including leadership
  • Experience serving as Resident Engineer on municipal and/or IDOT BLRS projects
  • Knowledge of federal/MFT-funded project requirements and IDOT procedures
  • Experience with IDOT District 1 coordination and municipal clients
  • Proficiency with IDOT CMMS (required); eBuilder preferred
  • Illinois P.E. preferred
  • Ability to meet IDOT documentation and certification requirements within 6 months of hire

COMPENSATION

The approximate compensation range for this position is $111,537 - $165,673. This compensation range is a good-faith estimate for the position at the time of posting.  Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.

Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world's most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.
Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.
We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.
We Make a Difference.

Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.
EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.

*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.

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