1

Building Engineer Helper Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... engineer or other building related trades. * ICC Combo commercial Inspector certification ... We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and ...

Area Electrical Business Class Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

$164K - $172K/yr

As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the critical infrastructure that supports the digital age and shapes the spaces where people work, connect, and thrive. From ...

Area Mechanical Business Class Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

$113K - $137K/yr

As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the critical infrastructure that supports the digital age and shapes the spaces where people work, connect, and thrive. From ...

Area Mechanical Business Class Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

$113K - $137K/yr

As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the critical infrastructure that supports the digital age and shapes the spaces where people work, connect, and thrive. From ...

Area Electrical Business Class Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

$164K - $172K/yr

As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the critical infrastructure that supports the digital age and shapes the spaces where people work, connect, and thrive. From ...

... building end-to-end, production-grade prototypes and reusable technology assets, including AI ... Provide technical mentorship and guidance to engineers, helping improve development velocity ...

Fosters a work environment that promotes energy conservation and continuous improvement of engineering functions. * As appropriate, records all pertinent data in building logbooks and makes all ...

As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the critical infrastructure that supports the digital age and shapes the spaces where people work, connect, and thrive. From ...

As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the critical infrastructure that supports the digital age and shapes the spaces where people work, connect, and thrive. From ...

Pair with and mentor earlier-career Systems & Software Engineers, helping them develop sound ... Hands-on experience building and operating cloud infrastructure on GCP (or comparable major cloud ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Building Engineer Helper information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$20

$26

How much do building engineer helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for building engineer helper in Chicago, IL is $20.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Building Engineer Helpers?

Building Engineer Helpers assist building engineers and maintenance staff in the operation, repair, and upkeep of building systems such as HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems. Their duties often include performing routine maintenance tasks, helping with repairs, and ensuring that safety standards are met throughout the facility. They may also handle basic troubleshooting, monitor equipment, and support preventive maintenance efforts. This role is an entry-level position that provides on-the-job training and can be a stepping stone to more advanced careers in building maintenance or engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Building Engineer Helper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Engineer Helper, you need basic knowledge of building systems, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, as well as experience with maintenance management systems, is often required. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and good communication skills help you effectively support engineering staff and respond to facility needs. These skills ensure the safe, efficient operation and upkeep of building facilities, which is critical for occupant comfort and safety.

What is the difference between Building Engineer Helper vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectBuilding Engineer HelperMaintenance Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentCommercial buildings, facilities managementVarious settings including commercial, industrial, residential
Job DutiesAssists with building systems, basic repairs, maintenance tasksPerforms repairs, inspections, preventive maintenance on equipment
Industry UsageCommonly used in facilities management teamsUsed across maintenance and repair departments

The Building Engineer Helper typically assists with basic building maintenance and system support, working under supervision. Maintenance Technicians perform more advanced repairs and inspections, often requiring certifications. Both roles are essential in building upkeep but differ in skill level and responsibilities.

What are some typical tasks a Building Engineer Helper handles during a workday?

As a Building Engineer Helper, you can expect to assist with routine maintenance and repair tasks, such as changing filters, performing minor plumbing or electrical repairs, and helping monitor building systems. You’ll often work closely with building engineers and technicians, supporting them in troubleshooting issues and ensuring all equipment runs smoothly. The role may require you to respond to service requests, help maintain records, and occasionally handle emergencies. It’s a hands-on position that offers exposure to a variety of building systems, providing valuable experience for those interested in advancing to more technical roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Building Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Building Engineer Helper jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Building Engineer Helper jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Building Engineer Helper jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Building Engineer Helper job openings:
Principal, Building Technology

Principal, Building Technology

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Do you want to help engineer what's next?
Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) is a national engineering firm committed to delivering holistic advice for our clients' most complex challenges. We leverage our collective and diverse experience, technical expertise, and industry knowledge of structures and building enclosures, advanced analysis, performance & code consulting, and applied science & research to deliver unrivaled, comprehensive solutions that drive superior performance. With 800 employees in offices nationwide, SGH's industry-leading teams constantly seek to advance the meaning of what's possible.
What makes careers at SGH so special?
The only way to advance is to question and explore. Every member of the SGH team is both a learner and an educator, committed to advancing ourselves, our teams, and our industry. Together we are creating a community that never settles for what is but always seeks what could be.
There are many reasons to love SGH:
  • Our Work: Our clients trust us to bring clarity and deliver outstanding solutions for their most complex projects.
  • Our People: We are bold thinkers and compassionate teammates, committed to lifelong learning and professional growth.
  • Our Commitment: We live with integrity and embrace an obligation to give back to our professions and communities.
  • Our Contribution: We offer a comprehensive and rich compensation and benefits package with company-paid and voluntary programs to help build healthy lifestyles, strong relationships, and future prosperity.

We are seeking a Principal who is passionate about technical excellence, people leadership, and advancing SGH's long-term success.
The Principal-level role represents a senior leadership position within SGH. This individual independently leads complex, high-risk projects; generates and sustains significant external work; strengthens key client relationships; mentors staff; and contributes meaningfully to SGH's strategic growth and reputation.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Lead and direct complex, high-profile projects involving new design and the evaluation, investigation, and repair of existing buildings, serving as Principal-in-Charge where appropriate.
  • Independently manage significant project portfolios, ensuring sound judgment in project selection, contracting, scope definition, risk management, billing oversight, and fee collection.
  • Generate, execute, and sustain external work consistent with Principal-level expectations, demonstrating strong business acumen and market presence.
  • Pursue and develop new markets, clients, or practice areas that expand SGH's technical breadth and strategic reach.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor and primary client contact on major engagements, building long-term relationships aligned with SGH's values and professional standards.
  • Exercise sound judgment in evaluating opportunities and safeguarding SGH's reputation in the marketplace.
  • Provide senior technical leadership in the investigation and remediation of complex building envelope malfunctions and failures.
  • Direct and oversee design and construction-phase services, including consultation to engineers, architects, contractors, and construction administration support.
  • Lead multidisciplinary teams across divisions, offices, and practice areas, fostering collaboration and an all-SGH mindset.
  • Mentor, develop, and create growth opportunities for staff across reporting lines, conducting meaningful performance feedback and supporting professional advancement.
  • Perform peer reviews of plans, specifications, proposals, and technical deliverables to ensure excellence and consistency with SGH's standards.
  • Support litigation, claims, and expert services efforts by providing authoritative technical insight and professional judgment when required.
  • Demonstrate strong leadership presence through industry involvement, including publications, professional societies, speaking engagements, and committee participation that enhances SGH's visibility and reputation.
  • Actively promote all SGH professional services and engage the best SGH expertise to serve clients effectively.
  • Demonstrate commitment to SGH's long-term success, including participation in firm leadership initiatives and shareholding consistent with firm policy.

What You'll Need
  • Bachelor's Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Architectural Engineering (advanced degree preferred) with 15+ years of experience in an architectural/engineering or construction management environment.
  • Professional Engineer (P.E.) or Registered Architect (RA) required (as applicable to discipline) in the state of Chicago.
  • Demonstrated multi-year experience independently directing complex projects and serving as Principal-in-Charge or equivalent leadership role.
  • Proven record of generating and sustaining significant external work and independently attracting clients.
  • Established professional reputation as a first-rate provider in the marketplace, respected by clients and industry peers.
  • Strong business judgment, risk awareness, and strategic decision-making capability.
  • Demonstrated leadership ability, including mentoring and developing staff across multiple teams and offices.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and presentation communication skills; ability to serve as lead author and reviewer of complex technical documents and proposals.
  • Commitment to ethical practice, quality assurance/quality control procedures, and safeguarding SGH's professional reputation.
  • Ability to travel to project sites as required and maintain an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report.

Benefits Overview:
SGH provides the following benefits to eligible employees.
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation time, Sick leave, Holidays)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Profit Sharing and 401(k) plan with a discretionary company contribution
  • Health Insurance (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Short and Long-Term Disability (company paid)
  • Employee Basic Life and AD&D insurance (company paid)
  • Optional Life Insurance
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Fertility, Family Forming, and Hormonal Health benefit
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Empathy Bereavement Support
  • Pre-tax Commuter Benefit
  • AFLAC Accident & Cancer Insurance
  • Legal & Identity Theft plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Compensation:
The compensation range below is a good faith estimate pursuant to applicable equal pay and pay transparency laws. The actual salary offered will be based on several factors including the candidate's experience and qualifications.
Base salary is a part of SGH's industry leading Total Compensation package. Our Total Compensation package includes base salary, pay for extra direct hours worked, an annual discretionary bonus program, generous paid time off, and health and wellness benefits with a special emphasis on substantial SGH contributions to medical insurance premiums and SGH's Profit Sharing & 401(k) Plan.
Pay Range:
  • Associate Principal: $214,240 - $236,080
  • Principal: $262,080
  • Senior Principal: $273,000

Principal (all levels)
$214,240-$273,000 USD
SGH is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal opportunities to all job applicants and employees. We consider all qualified applicants and encourage individuals with disabilities and protected veterans to apply. If the application system is not accessible to you, or you need a reasonable accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email jobs@sgh.com or call 781-907-9000 and ask for Human Resources.
TO ALL RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: SGH does not accept unsolicited agency resumes or candidate profiles. Please do not forward resumes or profiles for any of our job postings to our career site or to any Simpson Gumpertz & Heger employee. SGH is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.