1

Chief Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $105K/yr

All HEI Chief Engineers are working Chief's. * Hotel experience preferred. * Knowledge of hotel operations, including marketing plans, security and safety programs, personnel and labor relations ...

Assistant Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45 - $60.56/hr

Responsibilities The Assistant Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe and proper operation of the power plant and associated control structures. They operate, maintain, and adjust boilers ...

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $105K/yr

All HEI Chief Engineers are working Chief's. * Hotel experience preferred. * Knowledge of hotel operations, including marketing plans, security and safety programs, personnel and labor relations ...

The Chief Engineer will safeguard the interests of the owners by maintaining the physical condition of property and equipment according to company guidelines and standards, and protecting the ...

The Chief Engineer will safeguard the interests of the owners by maintaining the physical condition of property and equipment according to company guidelines and standards, and protecting the ...

Role Purpose As Chief Engineer you'll manage the engineering/maintenance of your hotel and ensure the safety and comfort of hotel guests and team members. You'll be a master multitasker and be ...

The Chief Engineer reports directly to the Property Manager. While specific responsibilities will vary based on location, the janitor will be responsible for physical asset management of the property ...

The Chief Engineer helps oversee the maintenance staff in a fair and consistent manner and will build and maintain professional relationships with coworkers as well as professional rapport with ...

Showing results 21-40

Chief Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33.5K

$95.8K

$186.6K

How much do chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief engineer in Chicago, IL is $95,820.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,800.00 and $123,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief engineer do?

A Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing the engineering operations of an organization or project. They lead engineering teams, manage technical projects, and ensure that systems and infrastructure are maintained and improved according to industry standards. Chief Engineers also develop policies, coordinate with other departments, and solve complex technical problems to support the organization's goals. Their role often involves budgeting, staff management, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Engineer, you need advanced engineering expertise, leadership experience, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in engineering. Familiarity with project management tools, CAD software, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are typically required. Outstanding problem-solving, communication, and team management skills help drive innovation and ensure smooth coordination across engineering teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for overseeing complex projects, maintaining high technical standards, and achieving organizational goals.

What are some common challenges chief engineers face when managing multidisciplinary engineering teams?

Chief Engineers often oversee teams that include specialists from various engineering disciplines, which can present challenges in aligning different technical perspectives and ensuring effective communication. Balancing project deadlines, resource allocation, and maintaining quality standards while navigating these differences is a frequent part of the role. Successful Chief Engineers foster strong collaboration, facilitate knowledge sharing, and implement standardized processes to address these challenges. They also play a key role in mentoring junior engineers and promoting professional development within the team.

What is the difference between Chief Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectChief EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, professional engineering license, leadership experienceEngineering degree, possibly licensure, technical skills
Work EnvironmentProject management, overseeing teams, strategic planningDesign, analysis, testing, and development of mechanical systems
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, aerospaceManufacturing, automotive, HVAC, robotics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Chief Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in their responsibilities and seniority. The Chief Engineer typically oversees projects, manages teams, and ensures technical standards at a strategic level, often requiring leadership experience and licensure. Mechanical Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and developing mechanical systems, working on technical tasks without the managerial responsibilities of a Chief Engineer. Both roles are vital in engineering industries, but the Chief Engineer holds a higher-level, supervisory position.

How much does a chief engineer earn?

A chief engineer's salary varies depending on industry, location, and experience, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually. They often hold advanced technical skills and certifications, such as Professional Engineer (PE) licenses, which can influence compensation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Chief Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Chief Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Chief Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Chief Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Chief Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,820 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Ascent Hospitality has an extensive portfolio of hotels and a strong pipeline of new properties and acquisitions, but we’re not about numbers…we’re about people and that remains our foundation. Our culture expresses a memorable experience for all of our Team Members and guests alike. So we’re constantly looking for individuals who work well together for a unified purpose. For our leadership, we’re looking for accomplished individuals with a passion to serve others, strong communicators who clearly understand the needs of others and trendsetters who excel at challenges and change. If this is what you’re all about, consider joining our Team.
Ascent Hospitality is looking for a uniquely qualified hospitality leader to join our team as a Chief Engineer!
The Chief Engineer supervises the operation, maintenance, and repair of the overall hotel operation. This position manages the Maintenance Staff of the hotel, ongoing preventative maintenance projects, renovations, plumbing, painting, sheetrock work, electrical and carpentry. In addition, this position may work with contractors to coordinate renovations, remodeling projects and new construction. This position may also oversee the completion of custodial work as necessary while providing optimum service and satisfaction to hotel guests; showing individual performance effectiveness, and following proper security amp; liability measures to protect the assets of the hotel and the Company.
BENEFITS:
  • Competitive Salary!
  • Benefits - Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and other supplemental options!
  • 401k with employer MATCH!
  • Paid PTO!
  • Uniforms Provided for most positions!
  • Team Member Hotel Discount Program!

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Ensure a smooth operation and guest experience
  • Responsible for monitoring compliance with state building codes and regulations, OSHA safety codes and adherence to Fire Department standards of safety and evacuation procedures.
  • Recruits, interviews and assists in recommending prospective employees, including Engineers, Laborers, Painters, and Carpenters, evaluates job performance and recommends appropriate discipline and rewards.
  • Directly responsible for the maintenance and operation of all the equipment on the property site and the building structure itself. This includes refrigeration and air conditioning, the fire alarm system, boilers, primary and secondary power systems, and emergency generators.
  • Familiar with and complies with the mission and standards of hotel maintenance
  • Effectively direct maintenance staff and assign tasks
  • Ability to operate with budget and labor expenses
  • Responsible for the aesthetics of the exterior and interior of the building, continuously evaluates remodeling projects and coordinates. Scheduling labor and material for remodeling and refurbishing projects.
  • Ability to identify maintenance and repair issues and initiate work orders
  • Reports and follows up on maintenance deficiencies
  • Complete work orders and all necessary assigned repairs
  • Performs preventive maintenance and maintains mechanical logs in an organized manner
  • Responsible for correct use of office equipment, EMS system and Life Safety Systems
  • Resolves guest’s problems and handles all guest requests in a timely manner and according to hotel Standards
  • Coordinate hotel emergency procedures, in conjunction with general manager and Corporate Director of Engineering. Assist in developing an effective emergency plan for hotel. Assist in conducting drills with staff. Assist in training staff on the operation of emergency systems and equipment. Schedule regular inspection and maintenance of all emergency equipment (kitchen hood extinguisher, fire extinguisher, alarm systems etc.).
SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Advance knowledge of building management
  • Extensive experience installing and troubleshooting electrical switches, operating boilers, and repairing appliances.
  • Complete understanding of all building related systems i.e. Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, Life Safety
  • Remain current on related technology advances that would enhance hotel operations
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to walk, climb, bend, lift, push pull, talk, walk in cramped areas and exposed to noisy locations susceptible to extreme hot and cold temperatures.
  • Must be able to operate in mentally and physically stressful situations
QUALIFICATION STANDARDS:
  • College degree or college courses related to engineering helpful
  • Vocational Schooling, certification and or related experience in HVAC, plumbing and carpentry
  • 3+ years hands on experience
  • Hotel experience preferred ï‚· Knowledge of hotel operations
  • Leadership skills
  • Effective verbal and written communications skills
EEO Employer