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Ibew Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Safely operating company vehicles, including microwave equipped vans and trucks, on potentially ... IBEW Local 1220 Per Diem Technician Position REQUIREMENTS OF CBS NEWS CHICAGO TECHNICIANS * Capable ...

Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67.85/hr

Safely operating company vehicles, including microwave equipped vans and trucks, on potentially ... IBEW Local 1220 Per Diem Technician Position REQUIREMENTS OF CBS NEWS CHICAGO TECHNICIANS * Capable ...

Project Manager

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Our culture is a product of our core values and operating principles which unite our personnel ... representative, IBEW union members and subcontractors - Continuously exercise leadership ...

Our culture is a product of our core values and operating principles which unite our personnel ... representative, IBEW union members and subcontractors - Continuously exercise leadership ...

Ibew Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$25

$36

How much do ibew operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for ibew operator in Chicago, IL is $25.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.06 and $30.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an IBEW operator?

IBEW operators are skilled professionals who operate and maintain electrical systems, often working in power plants, substations, or control centers. They are members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), a labor union representing those in the electrical industry. IBEW operators are responsible for monitoring equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring the safe and efficient distribution of electricity. Their work is critical to maintaining reliable power for homes and businesses. They typically undergo extensive training and must follow strict safety protocols.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an IBEW operator?

To thrive as an IBEW Operator, you need a solid understanding of electrical systems, safety protocols, and hands-on experience, often supported by completion of an apprenticeship and relevant union certifications. Familiarity with industry-specific tools like SCADA systems, electrical testing equipment, and compliance with OSHA regulations is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help operators respond to emergencies and coordinate with teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safe, reliable power operations and minimizing downtime in high-stakes environments.

What are common challenges faced by IBEW operators when working on large-scale electrical projects?

IBEW Operators working on large-scale electrical projects often face challenges such as coordinating with multiple trades, adhering to strict safety protocols, and troubleshooting complex electrical systems under tight deadlines. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as operators frequently collaborate with engineers, project managers, and other electricians to ensure tasks are completed safely and efficiently. Adapting to rapidly changing project requirements and maintaining up-to-date knowledge of evolving electrical codes and standards are also important aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Ibew Operator vs Electrician?

AspectIbew OperatorElectrician
CertificationsApprentice or journeyman card, OSHA safety trainingJourneyman or master electrician license, OSHA safety training
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, power plants, industrial facilitiesResidential, commercial, industrial wiring projects
Employer & Industry UsageUnion-based electrical construction companiesElectrical contracting companies, self-employed electricians

Both Ibew Operators and Electricians require safety training and certifications. Ibew Operators primarily focus on operating electrical equipment and machinery in construction and industrial settings, while Electricians handle wiring, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems. The roles often overlap in construction environments, but their core responsibilities differ, making each essential in different aspects of electrical work.

How to be an operator for IBEW?

To become an IBEW operator, you typically need to complete an apprenticeship program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training, usually lasting 3-5 years. Candidates must meet minimum age and education requirements, pass aptitude tests, and obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training and a commercial driver's license if required. Strong mechanical skills, physical fitness, and safety awareness are essential for success in this role.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Ibew Operator jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Ibew Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Ibew Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,402 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Maintenance Worker (Streets Divsion)

Geneva, City of (IL)

Geneva, IL • On-site

$24.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description The City of Geneva is seeking a Maintenance Worker to join our team in the Public Works Department Streets Division. This position performs various labor-focused tasks that keep our community beautiful and accessible. The hours for this position are from 7 a.m

to 3:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, with evenings and weekends off. This position is part of a crew that responds to after-hours emergencies and is responsible for leading the City's snow removal efforts in addition to the regular work schedule

If you enjoy meaningful work where you can see the impact you make, as well as staying busy outdoors with an ever-changing variety of projects, we invite you to apply. Examples of Duties Including but not limited to: Ensure safe roadways - perform pavement repair, pothole repair, cut pavement, dig area, shovel, smooth, roll asphalt. Perform parkway restoration - maintain and repair streetscape, hardscape, and landscape treatments requiring debris removal, mowing, weed whipping, planting, pruning, seeding, fertilizing, brick and cement work, irrigation installations and repairs.

Remove snow and ice from streets and sidewalks. Perform tree planting, pruning, and removal in City parkways. Plant new trees and mulch.

Prune trees to ensure the safety of residents while complying with proper arborist instructions for proper tree growth. Remove trees by cutting down in whole or in pieces, depending on size and location of tree. Perform set-up, break-down, and clean-up for City festivals, including setting out trash boxes, putting out barricades, putting up banners, and breaking down/cleaning up same at completion of festival.

Perform sign installation and repair of street signs and pavement markings and striping. Assemble and maintain streetscape furniture including park benches and trash receptacles. Work as a flagger for crew working in traffic.

Perform other duties as assigned. Typical Qualifications Education and Experience: Completion of high school or equivalent; and, Experience using basic maintenance tools; or, Any combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job may be considered Licenses and Certifications: Must possess a valid Illinois Class A Commercial Driver's License with the appropriate Classifications and Tanker Endorsements as specified by the Department Head within 6 months of hire date. If not obtained by hire date, the City will provide additional training for the following certifications: Forklift Certification Flagger Certification CPR Certification Work is physically laborious and candidates must be able to meet moderate to heavy physical demands, including the use of operating heavy equipment.

Work is performed primarily outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. Supplemental Information The City of Geneva offers an exceptional benefits package that includes comprehensive insurance as well as generous time off. Additionally, employees participate in the Illinois Municipal Fund (IMRF) retirement plan and have access to other self-funded retirement savings accounts.

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the City of Geneva and IBEW Local 196. The full CBA can be found on the City's website. This position is required to live within the stated residency requirement of 16 miles (straight line distance) of the City's corporate boundaries within the first year of employment.

A link to the residency map is included here if needed. The green and yellow areas of the map are acceptable per the CBA. The City is currently in negotiations with IBEW 196 for a successor agreement.

New terms, pay rates, etc. will be effective May 1st, 2025.