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Chief Operating Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

MedSpace Services

Assistant Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45 - $60.56/hr

The Assistant Chief Engineer trains operators to monitor and record device data, inspect equipment, and make minor repairs, perform preventative maintenance, and take responsible charge of a watch ...

Home 2 Suites Hammond IN

Chief Engineer

Hammond, IN

The Chief Engineer supervises the operation, maintenance, and repair of the overall hotel operation ... Extensive experience installing and troubleshooting electrical switches, operating boilers, and ...

Ascent Hospitality

Chief Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

The Chief Engineer supervises the operation, maintenance, and repair of the overall hotel operation ... Extensive experience installing and troubleshooting electrical switches, operating boilers, and ...

JLL

Healthcare Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Lead, create, and manage the engineering budget and participate in the overall operating budget ... Chief Engineer, or similar role * Essential experience in Healthcare area * People management ...

Waterton

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL

The Chief Engineer will safeguard the interests of the owners by maintaining the physical condition ... Operating Procedures (SOP's). What our ideal candidate looks like: * You've "been there, done that"

Related

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K/yr

We're looking for a Chief Engineer at 400 Lake Shore, a landmark 635-unit luxury rental tower ... owner/operator of real estate, managing hundreds of properties across multiple states and ...

Waterton

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Chief Engineer will safeguard the interests of the owners by maintaining the physical condition ... Operating Procedures (SOP's). What our ideal candidate looks like: * You've "been there, done that"

Related

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

We're looking for a Chief Engineer at 400 Lake Shore, a landmark 635-unit luxury rental tower ... owner/operator of real estate, managing hundreds of properties across multiple states and ...

The Salvation Army

Chief Building Engineer

Chicago, IL

$84K - $104K/yr

Chief Building Engineer LOCATION/DEPT: Harbor Light REPORTS TO: Executive Director PEOPLE MANAGER ... Minimum of 5 years' experience in managing and operating a facility in excess of 100,000 square ...

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All JobsChief Operating Engineer JobsChief Operating Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Chief Operating Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30

$59

$86

How much do chief operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for chief operating engineer in Chicago, IL is $59.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.40 and $63.41 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 meaning of chief?

In the context of a Chief Operating Engineer, the term 'chief' refers to a leadership position responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of building systems, such as HVAC, electrical, and mechanical equipment. The role typically requires technical expertise, management skills, and often relevant certifications or licenses. The 'chief' title indicates a senior or supervisory level within the engineering team.

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 another word for chief?

In the context of a Chief Operating Engineer, another word for 'chief' is 'head,' 'leader,' or 'manager.' These terms refer to the person responsible for overseeing operations, often requiring technical skills and certifications in engineering or facilities management.

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.

Is it chief or cheif?

The correct job title is 'Chief Operating Engineer,' with 'Chief' spelled C-H-I-E-F. This title refers to a senior engineering role responsible for overseeing operations, often requiring technical skills, certifications, and management experience. The spelling 'cheif' is incorrect and not used in professional contexts.

Is it racist to call someone chief?

In the context of a Chief Operating Engineer or similar roles, the term 'chief' is a standard title denoting leadership and does not have racial connotations. Using 'chief' as a title is generally considered respectful and professional, regardless of the individual's background. However, sensitivity to context and workplace culture is important to ensure respectful communication.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Chief Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Chief Operating Engineer jobs near you

Assistant Chief Engineer

MedSpace Services

Chicago, IL • On-site

$45 - $60.56/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

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, furnaces, engines, pumps, heat exchangers, generators, motors, chillers, cooling towers, equipment for heating, ventilating, air conditioning, lighting, and associated equipment in the facilities. This role serves as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) on plant operations and ensures that the team and plant operate safely and in compliance with regulatory requirements. The Assistant Chief Engineer trains operators to monitor and record device data, inspect equipment, and make minor repairs, perform preventative maintenance, and take responsible charge of a watch over meters, gauges, and other devices to ensure safe and efficient operation of plant equipment. The Assistant Chief Engineer may direct daily tasks of the power plant team or shift in accordance with the Facility Supervisor/Manager to maintain plant operations and address work orders.
Qualifications
  1. High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  2. Stationary Engineer license for the City of Chicago required.
  3. Five years of experience operating, maintaining, and repairing high pressure boilers, large tonnage chillers, facility management systems, water treatment systems and all types of boilers, chillers, pumps and systems required.
  4. Demonstrated knowledge of federal, state, and local plant operations and boiler codes required.
  5. Completion of trade or vocational program preferred.
  6. Experience in healthcare preferred.
  7. Experience training team members on plant operations, equipment, and applicable regulations preferred.

The company is dedicated to empowering its staff with a comprehensive, competitive benefits package, allowing them the freedom to customize their benefits to fit their unique needs. Our abundant resources, programs, and voluntary options serve as a foundation for individual growth and well-being. Learn more here: https://www.primehealthcare.com/benefitsthatmattermost/
Pay Transparency
MedSpace Services offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package that provides employees the flexibility to tailor benefits according to their individual needs. Our Total Rewards package includes, but is not limited to, paid time off, a 401K retirement plan, medical, dental, and vision coverage, tuition reimbursement, and many more voluntary benefit options. A reasonable compensation estimate for this role, which includes estimated wages, benefits, and other forms of compensation, is $45.00 to $60.56. The exact starting compensation to be offered will be determined at the time of selecting an applicant for hire, in which a wide range of factors will be considered, including but not limited to, skillset, years of applicable experience, education, credentials and licensure.
Employment Status
Full Time
Shift
Days
Equal Employment Opportunity
Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf

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