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Internship Operating Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Schnabel

Construction and Engineering Internship

Cary, IL

$17 - $22/hr

We are family owned and operated with a focus on safety, quality of work, and growth. With a ... This role reports directly to a Schnabel Engineer. You will also have a mentor that will dedicate ...

Schnabel

Construction and Engineering Internship

Cary, IL

$17 - $22/hr

We are family owned and operated with a focus on safety, quality of work, and growth. With a ... This role reports directly to a Schnabel Engineer. You will also have a mentor that will dedicate ...

RBN Chicago

Lead Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Hire, mentor and manage software engineers and interns from the Computer Science department ... operating systems including Linux and Windows Excellent communication skills Advanced degree in ...

RBN

Lead Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Hire, mentor and manage software engineers and interns from the Computer Science department ... operating systems including Linux and Windows Excellent communication skills Advanced degree in ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Equipment Engineer

Manteno, IL

... operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions * Participate in equipment and safety training ... Internship or project experience with automated production equipment * Basic exposure to PLCs, HMIs ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Process Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

... internships, co-ops, or academic project experience acceptable) Basic understanding of ... Works well with engineers, operators, and cross-functional partners Documentation & Organization:

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Process Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

... internships, co-ops, or academic project experience acceptable) • Basic understanding of ... Works well with engineers, operators, and cross-functional partners • Documentation ...

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Equipment Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

... operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions * Participate in equipment and safety training ... Internship or project experience with automated production equipment * Basic exposure to PLCs, HMIs ...

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

Internship Operating Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$19

$30

How much do internship operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship operating engineer in Chicago, IL is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Internship Operating Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety protocols, and typically be pursuing or have a degree in engineering or a related technical field. Familiarity with building automation systems, HVAC controls, and maintenance management software is often expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help interns excel in this hands-on environment. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of building systems and support career development in facilities management.

What is the difference between Internship Operating Engineer vs Operating Engineer?

AspectInternship Operating EngineerOperating Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or completed relevant technical training or certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires licenses or certifications depending on state
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused, often in construction sites or facilitiesFull-time, hands-on work in construction, industrial, or facility settings
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in construction, utilities, or industrial firmsConstruction companies, industrial plants, utilities

The Internship Operating Engineer is an entry-level position designed for training and skill development, often part of an internship program. In contrast, the Operating Engineer is a fully qualified professional responsible for operating heavy machinery and managing equipment in various industrial settings. The internship provides foundational experience, while the operating engineer role involves independent work and greater responsibility.

What does an Internship Operating Engineer do?

An Internship Operating Engineer assists in the operation and maintenance of building systems, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), electrical, and plumbing. Interns often work under the supervision of experienced engineers to learn how to monitor equipment, perform routine inspections, and troubleshoot issues. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in facility management and building operations, preparing interns for a career as a licensed Operating Engineer. Responsibilities may also include helping with repairs, maintaining logs, and ensuring safety protocols are followed.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on as an Internship Operating Engineer?

As an Internship Operating Engineer, you can expect to assist with the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of mechanical and electrical systems in facilities such as commercial buildings or industrial plants. Typical tasks may include monitoring equipment performance, conducting routine inspections, supporting preventive maintenance schedules, and helping diagnose system issues under the guidance of experienced engineers. You will likely collaborate closely with senior operating engineers, facility management teams, and vendors, gaining hands-on experience that is valuable for future full-time roles in building operations or plant engineering.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Internship Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Internship Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Internship Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Internship Operating Engineer jobs near you
Construction and Engineering Internship

Construction and Engineering Internship

Schnabel

Cary, IL

$17 - $22/hr

Internship

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Schnabel is a leader in specialty design-build underground construction. We are looking for a Construction and Engineering Intern to provide support for our operations and preconstruction teams during the summer. The internship can also be done as a co-op during the spring or fall semester. The main responsibility of this role is to assist the project team with quality control and project oversight. You will have exposure to our unique designs, preconstruction, and active construction management. Schnabel is a subcontractor so you will also have exposure to general contractors and government agencies that we work with.

Schnabel was founded in 1959 in Washington DC and has grown to become one of the nation’s top geostructural contractors. We are family owned and operated with a focus on safety, quality of work, and growth. With a national footprint it’s sometimes difficult to maintain the small company feel, but we’ve been successful in preserving that part of our culture.

This role reports directly to a Schnabel Engineer. You will also have a mentor that will dedicate their time to your development and to answer any questions that come up during your internship. During the summer you will also participate in a soft skills training, several webinars, and an end of summer project report detailing everything you’ve learned.

Our typical scope of work includes installation of soldier piles, micropiles, lagging, walers, tiebacks, and braces for support of excavation projects. We also take on challenging projects with underpinning, grouting, tunneling, and unique structural support as part of our scope. Candidates who have direct construction experience and familiarity with our company’s traditional scope of work are preferred.

Job Responsibilities

  • Support foreman / superintendent and project manager with any onsite paperwork and engineering
  • Manage the submittal process for your assigned projects
  • Engineering calculations
  • Field data collection and entering into excel spreadsheets
  • Quantity take-offs and preconstruction scope review

Qualifications

  • Working towards a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or another degree with applicable course content
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Computer literacy and experience with Microsoft Office products, such as excel, word, and outlook
  • Basic understanding of AutoCAD
  • Basic understanding of Surveying
  • Ability to work in both the field and the office
  • Must have vehicle and driver’s license
  • Eligible to work in the United States

Schnabel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is fully committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable laws. We are an E-Verify employer.

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