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Building Operating Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

JLL

Operating Engineer

Oakbrook Terrace, IL

$69K - $94K/yr

Operating Engineer (2nd Shift) - JLL What this job involves: As a 2nd Shift Operating Engineer at ... Formulate and implement preventative maintenance program for the building in conjunction with ...

American

Lead Operating Engineer

Campus, IL · On-site

$43 - $48/hr

Operating Engineering 2 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work ... Building and Supporting Teams. * Evaluating and Implementing Ideas. * Making Accurate Judgments and ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Oak Lawn, IL

$70K - $95K/yr

To include building automation systems, fire/life safety systems, and any other building-related ... Operators License, Steam Engineers License, etc. • Possess a valid "Universal" level ...

American

Lead Operating Engineer

Campus, IL · On-site

$43 - $48/hr

Operating Engineering 1 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work ... Building and Supporting Teams. * Evaluating and Implementing Ideas. * Making Accurate Judgments and ...

CBRE

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer, you will be responsible to ensure the efficient operation and ... Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC requirements of the building. * Maintain heating ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Northlake, IL

$67K - $91K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... the building(s) • Maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units ...

CBRE

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer, you will be responsible to ensure the efficient operation and ... Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC requirements of the building. * Maintain heating ...

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All JobsBuilding Operating Engineer JobsBuilding Operating Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Building Operating Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$17

$31

$51

How much do building operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for building operating engineer in Illinois is $31.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.71 and $35.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Building Operating Engineer, you need strong knowledge of HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, often supported by a technical diploma or engineering certifications. Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS), computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and relevant licensing (such as a Stationary Engineer license) is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you respond quickly to issues and work with tenants or vendors. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable building operations.

What are Building Operating Engineers?

Building Operating Engineers are skilled professionals responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of a building's mechanical, electrical, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. They ensure that all building systems function efficiently and safely, addressing issues as they arise and performing routine inspections. These engineers play a critical role in maintaining comfort, energy efficiency, and safety in commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities. Their work often involves troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and coordination with contractors or other building services staff.

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

AspectBuilding Operating EngineerMaintenance Technician
CertificationsStationary Engineer license, HVAC certificationsHVAC, electrical, plumbing certifications
Work EnvironmentCommercial buildings, industrial facilitiesVarious settings including residential, commercial, industrial
Job FocusOperating and maintaining building systemsPerforming repairs and routine maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageProperty management, facilities managementFacilities, maintenance companies, industrial plants

Building Operating Engineers primarily focus on operating and maintaining complex building systems like HVAC, boilers, and electrical systems, often requiring specialized licenses. Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and routine maintenance across various systems. While both roles ensure building functionality, Building Operating Engineers typically work in larger facilities with more technical systems, whereas Maintenance Technicians have a broader, more general maintenance scope.

What are some common challenges Building Operating Engineers face in maintaining large commercial facilities?

Building Operating Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex HVAC systems, responding to unexpected equipment failures, and balancing preventive maintenance with urgent repair requests. They must also stay updated on building codes and environmental regulations, ensuring compliance while keeping systems running efficiently. Collaboration with other maintenance staff, vendors, and property management is essential, especially during large-scale repairs or upgrades.
Building Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Operating Engineer job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,201 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
Building Operating Engineer

Building Operating Engineer

University of Illinois

Rockford, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
Operation and maintenance of all building heating, cooling, mechanical, electrical, and structural systems.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Operate, maintain, and inspect: heating systems, ventilation systems, air conditioning systems, geothermal System, lighting and power systems, pneumatic and electrical control systems, BAS System.
    Perform repair and maintenance to building structures or recommend need for contractual services.
    Carry out department preventive maintenance program involving all building operating and electric systems. Provide recommendations for additional PM procedures as needed. These systems provide building environmental controls and electric light and power. The systems control points are located in ten remote mechanical/electrical spaces and are interconnected by systems wiring and piping.
    Keep clear, concise and complete records and logs on equipment, parts, chemicals, etc. and submit weekly reports to State Water Survey.
    Maintain inventory of department equipment and consumables, prepare reports as required.
    Consult with and advise Coordinator regarding observations relative to building operating and electric systems and action to be taken. Orders and/or obtains parts according to established procedures.
    May be responsible for periodic routine visits to the community health center to carry out preventive maintenance program or other building related repairs and projects.
    May supervise one or more workers when assistance is required to complete a variety of maintenance projects or to perform the ongoing preventive maintenance routine.
  •  
    • University of Illinois logo

    About University of Illinois

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

    Industry

    Colleges, universities, and professional schools

    Company size

    5,001 - 10,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Urbana, IL, US

    Year founded

    1974

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