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Chief Building Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Forester by Hyatt

Chief Engineer

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$67K - $73K/yr

CHIEF ENGINEER Reports to: Director of Operations Department: Facilities OUR STORY The Forester ... Ensure compliance with safety regulations, building codes, permits, and Hyatt brand standards.

MCNEILL HOTEL COMPANY LLC

Chief Engineer

Normal, IL · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Responsible for supervising the Chief Engineers or maintenance techs for properties in an assigned ... Directs the preventative maintenance program, repairs and renovation projects for building and ...

IHG Hotels & Resorts

Chief Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

Role Purpose As Chief Engineer you'll manage the engineering/maintenance of your hotel and ensure ... Four years' experience in general building maintenance and/or construction or equivalent ...

CBRE Group, Inc.

Union Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

About the Role As a CBRE Union Chief Engineer, you will be responsible for engineering operations ... Monitor building systems including fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing to ensure the operation of ...

Lanco

Chief Engineer- Mi-Jack Products

Hazel Crest, IL · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

About the Role The Chief Engineer owns the technical delivery of a product series and leads ... building capable teams, improving products, and driving cross-functional execution. What You'll Do

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsChief Building Engineer JobsChief Building Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Chief Building Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$31.5K

$90.1K

$175.4K

How much do chief building engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief building engineer in Illinois is $90,066.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $116,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief building engineer do?

A Chief Building Engineer is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, operation, and repair of a building’s systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical equipment. They supervise engineering and maintenance staff, manage building projects, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and coordinate with vendors and contractors. Their role is essential for ensuring that the building operates efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.

What is the difference between Chief Building Engineer vs Building Maintenance Supervisor?

AspectChief Building EngineerBuilding Maintenance Supervisor
CertificationsHVAC, electrical, plumbing licenses; often professional engineering licenseTrade certifications, HVAC or electrical licenses often preferred
Work EnvironmentLarge commercial or institutional buildings, facilities managementBuilding maintenance teams, smaller facilities
ResponsibilitiesOversees all building systems, manages maintenance staff, ensures complianceSupervises maintenance tasks, coordinates repairs, manages technicians

The Chief Building Engineer typically has broader responsibilities, overseeing all building systems and staff, often in larger facilities. The Building Maintenance Supervisor focuses on supervising maintenance activities and technicians. Both roles require technical certifications, but the Chief Building Engineer's scope is more comprehensive and strategic.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief building engineer?

To thrive as a Chief Building Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing), strong problem-solving abilities, and typically a relevant technical degree or trade certification. Familiarity with building automation systems, maintenance management software, and safety regulations is essential, and certifications like EPA Universal or a Stationary Engineer’s License are often required. Leadership, communication, and time management are critical soft skills for coordinating teams and managing multiple priorities. These skills ensure efficient facility operations, regulatory compliance, and a safe, comfortable environment for building occupants.

What are some common challenges faced by chief building engineers when managing large facilities?

Chief Building Engineers often face the challenge of balancing preventative maintenance with urgent repairs, especially in large or aging facilities. They must coordinate with multiple departments to minimize downtime and disruptions while ensuring all building systems—such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing—operate efficiently. Additionally, staying updated with evolving building codes and sustainability standards can add complexity, requiring strong organizational and leadership skills. Successful Chief Building Engineers excel at prioritizing tasks, leading maintenance teams, and communicating effectively with property managers and vendors.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Building Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Chief Building Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Chief Building Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Chief Building Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chief Building Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Building Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

Chief Building Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Building Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,066 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Chief Engineer

Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Lombard Oak Brook

Lombard, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description
The hotel chief engineer leads the property operations and maintenance department. They manage all repairs, preventative maintenance, and safety systems for guest rooms, public spaces, and mechanical plants. They report directly to the general manager and ensure the building meets local and federal building codes.
Responsibilities
• Facility Maintenance: Inspect and repair HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and refrigeration systems.
• Preventative Care: Create and track routine maintenance schedules for all equipment and guest rooms.
• Staff Leadership: Hire, train, schedule, and supervise maintenance technicians and outside contractors.
• Safety & Compliance: Test life safety systems, manage OSHA guidelines, and pass local health or fire inspections.
• Budget Management: Control departmental costs, manage energy consumption, and plan for capital improvement projects.
Qualifications
• Experience: 2 to 5 years of progressive hospitality maintenance or engineering experience.
• Leadership: Proven history of supervising teams and managing vendor relationships.
• Technical Skills: Strong working knowledge of blueprints, electrical meters, and mechanical schematics.
• Certifications: Vocational training, HVAC certification, or a universal refrigerant license are frequently required.
• Physical Ability: Capability to stand for long periods, walk the property, and lift up to 50 pounds.

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