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Chief Operating Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Cogent IBS, Inc

Chief Operating Officer

Glenview, IL · On-site

Position Summary The COO will oversee day-to-day operations across Engineering, Manufacturing ... Supply Chain, Operations, Quality, and Customer Delivery while driving operational excellence ...

Health Catalyst

Chief Operating Officer

Chicago, IL

Chief Operating Officer Reports to: Chief Executive Officer Department:General and Administrative ... Partner with Product and Engineering to ensure roadmap execution aligns with real client needs and ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Oak Lawn, IL

$70K - $95K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary About Cushman & Wakefield Our purpose is simple: to put our ... This position supports the Assistant and/or Chief Engineer and Sr. Facilities Manager in the day-to ...

American

Lead Operating Engineer

Campus, IL

$43 - $48/hr

Operating Engineering 2 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work ... Under the direction of the Assistant Chief Engineer, this position works independently with leeway ...

American

Lead Operating Engineer

Campus, IL

$43 - $48/hr

Operating Engineering 1 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work ... Under the direction of the Assistant Chief Engineer, this position works independently with leeway ...

MalaceHR

Chief Engineer

Geneva, IL

Develop and manage engineering department budgets and support overall facility operating budgets ... Previous experience as a Chief Engineer, Assistant Chief Engineer, Maintenance Manager, or similar ...

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Gecko Hospitality

Chief Engineer Hotel

Lake Forest, IL

$67K - $73K/yr

Chief Engineer Hotel Location: Lake Forest, IL Salary: $70K - $73K ++ Position Overview We're ... Keep everything operating at peak performance with minimal downtime. * Preventive Maintenance:

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Field Museum

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL

$102K - $104K/yr

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the management and daily leadership of the engineering team with a focus on safely, efficiently, and effectively operating building machinery and systems. The ...

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Chief Operating Engineer information

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How much do chief operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for chief operating engineer in Illinois is $55.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.19 and $59.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Chief Operating Engineer, you need deep expertise in building systems operations, mechanical and electrical engineering, and typically a Stationary Engineer license or relevant certifications. Proficiency in HVAC, boiler controls, computerized building management systems, and compliance with safety regulations is essential. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills for managing teams and responding swiftly to facility issues. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of critical infrastructure, minimizing risks and costly downtime.

What is the difference between Chief Operating Engineer vs Maintenance Engineer?

AspectChief Operating EngineerMaintenance Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires HVAC, boiler operator licenses, or engineering certificationsOften requires HVAC or electrical certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentSupervises building systems, mechanical equipment, and facilities managementPerforms maintenance, repairs, and inspections of equipment and systems
Employer & IndustryFound in commercial, industrial, or institutional facilitiesCommon in manufacturing, facilities, and building management

The Chief Operating Engineer oversees the operation and maintenance of building systems, ensuring safety and efficiency, while the Maintenance Engineer focuses on repairing and maintaining equipment. Both roles require technical certifications and work in similar environments, but the Chief Operating Engineer has broader supervisory responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by a Chief Operating Engineer, and how can they be addressed?

Chief Operating Engineers often face the challenge of balancing operational efficiency with strict safety regulations and budget constraints. They must ensure that all engineering systems run smoothly while coordinating maintenance schedules and responding quickly to unexpected mechanical issues. Effective communication with cross-functional teams and proactive planning are essential to minimize downtime and optimize resource allocation. Staying updated on industry best practices and investing in staff training can help address these challenges and lead to more efficient operations.

What is the highest salary of Chief Engineer?

The highest salary for a Chief Operating Engineer can exceed $150,000 annually, especially in large facilities or high-cost regions. Compensation varies based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the environment they manage.

What is a Chief Operating Engineer?

A Chief Operating Engineer is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of engineering systems within a facility, such as HVAC, electrical, and mechanical systems. They lead a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring that all equipment runs efficiently and safely. Their role often includes managing budgets, coordinating repairs, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and implementing preventative maintenance programs. Chief Operating Engineers typically work in large buildings, industrial plants, or commercial complexes. This position requires extensive technical knowledge, leadership skills, and relevant certifications.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Chief Operating Engineers in large facilities or industrial settings can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and management responsibilities. High salaries are often associated with senior roles overseeing complex operations, often requiring specialized skills and long hours.

What does a chief operating engineer do?

A chief operating engineer oversees the operation and maintenance of building systems such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing to ensure safety and efficiency. They typically manage staff, perform inspections, and ensure compliance with safety regulations, often requiring relevant certifications and technical skills.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Chief Operating Engineers in large facilities or industrial settings can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and management responsibilities. High salaries are often associated with roles overseeing complex systems, such as HVAC, electrical, or mechanical operations in commercial or industrial environments.
What are popular job titles related to Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Chief Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Chief Operating Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Chief Operating Engineer jobs in IL? For Chief Operating Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Chief Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Operating Engineer job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 8% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,038 per year, or $55.8 per hour.
Chief Operating Engineer

Chief Operating Engineer

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • On-site

$399/wk

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted just now

Northwestern University rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

113th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: Facilities Mgmt EV
Salary/Grade: 399/S7
Job Summary:
Manages the safe and efficient operation of all Central Utility Plant systems and equipment including electrical, mechanical, plumbing, control systems, and limited associated utility distribution networks. Major equipment includes deep water intake and associated filtration systems, high pressure steam boilers and auxiliaries, steam- and electric-driven industrial chillers and auxiliaries, heat exchangers, chemical treatment, steam turbines, pumps, switch gear, generator, cooling pond, and control systems. This position ensures operation and maintenance of the systems and equipment is performed and documented properly and in compliance with University policies and all applicable codes. Provides technical advice to senior management, administration, faculty, staff, and outside consultants relative to design, installation, operation, and repair of plant systems.
The role will support the department's mission and values by exhibiting the following: inclusiveness, respect, initiative, collaboration, innovation, and accountability. The incumbent will strive to provide excellent service when performing job responsibilities and will practice safe work procedures, and follow safety rules at all times.
Specific Responsibilities:
  • Plans, directs, and coordinates maintenance operations of plant equipment, systems, and ancillary infrastructure to meet the established annual budget and reliability (uninterrupted operation) expectations;
  • Organizes work for planned and unscheduled maintenance tasks directed to plant staff and supporting shops for efficient and effective performance while ensuring that adequate staff is available to respond to irregularities and/or emergencies;
  • Maintains good order and discipline among personnel consistent with University and departmental policies, initiating commendatory or corrective action as appropriate;
  • Prepares written and oral reports on the condition, renewal needs, and routine maintenance of facilities, components, and related activities including post-incident summaries and root cause analyses;
  • Identifies and recommends employee safety, technical, soft-skill training, and professional development opportunities as required to ensure optimum unit performance and development;
  • Ensures compliance with applicable EPA, IEPA, State Fire Marshal, MWRD, OSHA requirements, and other jurisdictional codes;
  • Interviews and recommends hiring or promotion of qualified staff, and performs annual employee performance reviews of subordinate personnel;
  • Actively participates in energy procurement process including spot-market and storage balancing;
  • Participates in design and construction reviews for capital projects;
  • Other duties as assigned;
  • Must be available and capable of responding to irregularities during evenings and weekends ensuring 24 hour, 7 day per week coverage.
Miscellaneous
Performed other duties
Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)
  • Minimum of two years of college in stationary, marine, mechanical engineering, or the equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable skills can be acquired;
  • Minimum five years supervisory experience in planning, directing, and coordinating the maintenance of industrial-grade utility plant systems and equipment;
  • City of Chicago Stationary Engineer's License (or obtain within 6 months of start date);
  • Experience with, and thorough understanding of the engineering theories associated with, straight condensing and back pressure steam turbines, ancillary equipment, steam and refrigeration cycles;
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and recurring safety precautions;
  • Mechanical aptitude and proven ability to maintain operating standards;
  • Possess and maintain a valid driver's license recognized by the State of Illinois, provide own reliable transportation, and purchase a University parking permit (as required);
  • Be a member of Operating Engineers Local 399, or join after a satisfactory completion of a 90-day probationary period.
Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)
  • Knowledge of electrical distribution and safe working practices;
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills;
  • Exceptional customer relationship skills and the ability to establish effective working relationships in a diverse environment;
  • Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to effectively motivate work groups toward defined and agreed upon common goals;
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the tools, instruments, methods and standard trade/safety practices pertaining to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing;
  • Ability to perform calculations applicable to field of experience;
  • Working knowledge of NFPA, State, Local, and other associated building codes;
  • Ability to understand and adhere to applicable compliance requirements including CAAPP and NPDES;
  • Ability to review construction drawings and make recommendations that will conform to University standards as well as complying with all pertinent codes;
  • Receptive to feedback, willing to learn, embracing continuous improvement;
  • Helpful, respectful, approachable and team oriented;
  • Ability to build strong working relationships and a positive work environment;
  • Seeks to build collaboration by encouraging trust, mutual respect and shared purpose;
  • Balances listening and talking, speaks and writes clearly and accurately, keeps others informed;
  • Integrates health and safety precautions into daily activities;
  • Works effectively in an environment in which the parameters may change daily; adjusts behavior to meet the needs of different people and situations;
  • Operating knowledge of DeltaV, pneumatic, and PLC control systems;
  • Successfully uses multiple software program independently. Software may include Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and Outlook, CMMS Systems, and Peoplesoft;
  • Proficiency with mobile devices including iOS.
Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)
  • Facilitates open and effective communication, cooperation and teamwork within and outside of one's own team;
  • Plans ahead, manages time well and arrives on time;
  • Familiarity with zone maintenance models;
  • Recommends improvements and opportunities to increase efficiency and reduce costs;
  • Analytical skills including critical thinking, decision making, trouble shooting and problem solving, reading and interpreting technical drawings;
  • Achieves a standard of excellence with work processes and outcomes, honoring University and Department policies and all regulatory requirements.
Target hiring pay for this position will be $63.97 per hour as per the Local 399 CBA. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data
Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.
Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities, and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.
Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .
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