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Building Envelope Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Through an integrated, holistic approach, our professionals provide solutions for building envelope, energy efficiency, sustainability, code advisory and construction advisory projects. SOCOTEC ...

Through an integrated, holistic approach, our professionals provide solutions for building envelope, energy efficiency, sustainability, code advisory and construction advisory projects. SOCOTEC ...

Through an integrated, holistic approach, our professionals provide solutions for building envelope, energy efficiency, sustainability, code advisory and construction advisory projects. SOCOTEC ...

Diagnostics Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27.60 - $38.40/hr

Demonstrated interest in forensics engineering, building envelope rehabilitation, etc. * Excellent oral and written communications. * Eligibility to work in the United States upon acceptance. Pay ...

These projects typically included upgrades to and/or new installations of: HVAC systems, building automation systems, lighting systems, renewable energy systems, and building envelope systems such as ...

Showing results 21-40

Building Envelope information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$28.8K

$101.1K

$152.5K

How much do building envelope jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for building envelope in Chicago, IL is $101,104.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $123,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a building envelope specialist?

A building envelope specialist is a professional who designs, inspects, and maintains the exterior enclosure of a building, including walls, roofs, windows, and doors, to ensure energy efficiency, weather resistance, and structural integrity. They often work with architects, engineers, and contractors, and may hold certifications such as building envelope commissioning or waterproofing expertise.

What is a building envelope?

A Building Envelope job focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of a building's exterior elements, including walls, roofs, windows, and insulation. Professionals in this field ensure the building is energy-efficient, weather-resistant, and structurally sound. Their work involves assessing materials, conducting inspections, and recommending solutions to improve performance. These roles are critical in preventing water infiltration, air leakage, and thermal inefficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the building envelope position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Building Envelope role, you need a solid understanding of building science, construction methods, and materials, often supported by a degree in engineering, architecture, or construction management. Experience with tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, thermal imaging devices, and familiarity with industry standards like ASTM and LEED certifications are commonly required. Exceptional problem-solving skills, meticulous attention to detail, and strong communication abilities are essential soft skills in this position. These competencies help ensure building performance, prevent structural issues, and facilitate effective collaboration with diverse project teams.

What are the typical responsibilities of someone working in a building envelope position?

Building Envelope professionals are responsible for designing, assessing, and managing the exterior systems of a structure—such as walls, windows, roofing, and insulation—to ensure durability, weather resistance, and energy efficiency. Daily tasks may include conducting site evaluations, performing material assessments, coordinating with architects, contractors, and engineers, and ensuring compliance with relevant codes and standards. Teamwork and on-site collaboration are common, as you'll often work closely with project stakeholders to resolve technical challenges. This role offers opportunities for career growth in project management, consulting, or specialization in advanced sustainable building technologies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Building Envelope jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Building Envelope jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Building Envelope jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Building Envelope jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Building Envelope jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Building Envelope jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Building Envelope job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,104 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Manager, Campus Trades

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department
OPS Facilities Building Trades and Campus Services Management
About the Department
Facilities Services supports the mission of the University of Chicago through efforts to maintain and enhance the University campus and environment and provide superior client service to our community including faculty, students, staff, neighbors and visitors.
Job Summary
Reporting to the Director of Building Trades, this Manager is responsible for leading the 25+ personnel in the Structural Mechanic, Carpentry, Locksmith, and Decorating Shops, and providing technical expertise, budget management and quality assurance oversight to small and large-scale projects involving building envelope, sheet metal and masonry. This role includes the daily assignment of maintenance and operations tasks, material and tool ordering approval, and client interface on project scheduling and closeout of all preventive and corrective maintenance tasks assigned to the aforementioned shops.
Responsibilities
  • Manage employees by establishing annual performance goals, allocating resources, assessing annual performance, and determining individual merit, incentive and/or promotional increases.
  • Develop, execute and maintain staffing model to ensure assigned Shops are staffed to the appropriate level to meet the required capability and capacity. Hire, mentor and develop assigned staff. Responsible for managing the timecard approval process and disciplinary process in accordance with union contracts for all assigned staff. Responsible for developing and executing task specific safety plans for all assigned shop activities.
  • Manage and provide technical expertise regarding the design and construction of non-capital building envelope and masonry projects. These projects are triggered by a failure of the system, part of the preventative maintenance program or departmental requests. Adherence to the allocated budget is a requirement. All projects must be compliant with all related codes. Assure schedule, scope, standards, and quality meet University requirements. Accurate and timely communication between Facilities Services and the department or departments is essential.
  • Responsible for timely execution of feasibility studies and cost studies. Ability to prioritize based on cost, potential impact of failure, and risk of failure. Demonstrated knowledge of the impact that various types of design may have in future years on the Facilities Services Operations & Maintenance budget. Ability to differentiate the anticipated operating and maintenance costs and to distinguish between initial as well as long term costs and liabilities between different materials and procedures used on projects. This includes performing fact finding and analysis to assure sound decisions are made relative to first cost versus life cycle costs. Has the ability to differentiate between upfront as well as long term costs and liabilities between different materials as well as procedures used on projects.
  • Act as the university's point of contact with local and state government agencies regarding compliance with roofing and façade code issues. Must know the University's liabilities and the timelines to repair imminent hazards as well as preventive projects. Must present the University's plans for compliance with accurate detail as to work to be done and timeline for Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) as well as accurate costs for the University. Must communicate back to the University any changes or revisions required by the AHJ.
  • Conducts regular inspection tours of buildings, equipment and surrounding grounds for deficiencies, potential safety, health, or code problems and necessary repairs. Prepares written reports summarizing findings, and advises management, building users, or others, as appropriate, of findings and recommendations for dealing with problems noticed on inspection.
  • Conduct regular communications with internal and external customers and stakeholders ensuring understanding of the project process. Develop and maintain strong relationships within University community to meet the mission of Facilities Services.
  • Maintains Facilities Services philosophies by fostering a spirit of teamwork and cooperation.
  • Supervises employees by establishing annual performance goals, allocating resources, assessing annual performance, and determining individual merit, incentive and/or promotional increases.
  • Provides training, prioritizes and schedules work assignments (daily management and long-range planning), inspects work, and provides guidance and technical assistance. Conducts inspections of buildings, equipment and/or surrounding grounds for deficiencies and potential safety, health, or code problems.
  • Develops and uses performance measurement tools to improve processes. Implements standard operating procedures.
  • Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
---
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree.

Experience:
  • Eight years experience in design, construction and project management related duties and activities.
  • Experience in project management in a university setting.
  • Experience in managing numerous projects concurrently.
  • Experience, which demonstrates competency and exposure to large-scale building projects involving all building trade divisions.
  • Higher education or related institutional facilities experience.

Certifications:
  • Valid driver's license.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:
  • Computer literacy in a Windows environment. Effectively using computer technology (computerized maintenance management system, procurement authorization logs, spreadsheets, etc.).
  • Mastery of building systems, concrete materials and methods, metal materials and methods (specialty doors, entrances and storefronts), glazing, thermal and moisture protection (damp proofing, waterproofing, building insulation, etc) roofing materials and systems (shingles, tile, coverings, panels, membrane roofing, flashings, etc).
  • In-depth understanding with building processes related to roofing and masonry codes in the City of Chicago and the State of Illinois.
  • Detailed knowledge and understanding of the building process, with specific experience in roofing, sheet metal, masonry and façade categories.
  • Ability to evaluate appropriateness of estimates, bids, and cost proposals.
  • Ability to understand construction documents.
  • Provides training, prioritizes and schedules work assignments (daily management and long-range planning), inspects work, and provides guidance and technical assistance. Conducts inspections of buildings, equipment and/or surrounding grounds for deficiencies and potential safety, health, or code problems.
  • Develops and uses performance measurement tools to improve processes. Implements standard operating procedures.

Preferred Competencies
  • Demonstrated negotiation skills.
  • Demonstrated oral and written communication skills with tradespersons, professionals, faculty, students, staff, and administrators.
  • Strong customer service orientation.
  • Perform multiple tasks concurrently.
  • Perform within deadlines, reading; confidentiality; problem-solving.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Familiarity with coordinating multiple interest groups and stakeholders is important. Work within complex phasing constraints and within existing densely built mature facilities environments is a plus.
  • Specific knowledge of the University of Chicago is a plus.

Working Conditions
  • Ability to physically enter construction sites (climb a ladder) and visually inspect work in progress.
  • Must demonstrate mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity and be physically capable of strenuous activity over extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to lift and move loads appropriate to job requirements and be able to bend and work in a kneeling position for periods of time.
  • Must be able to climb stairs and ladders, be capable of working at heights as needed, be able to enter and work within tight spaces, and be able to withstand hot and cold temperatures.
  • Must be able to respond to emergency calls at any hour of the day and must be willing to work long or irregular hours when needed.

Application Documents
  • Resume (required)
  • Cover Letter (required)
  • List of 3 References (required)

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Facilities Management
Role Impact
People Manager
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
Yes
Pay Rate Type
Salary
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Range
$94,248.61 - $110,880.72
The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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