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Operating Engineer Jobs in Aurora, IL (NOW HIRING)

This position is assigned to the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 399 BARGINING UNIT POSITION The salary for this position is $86,700 plus a $1.25 per hour shift differential ...

This position is assigned to the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 399 BARGINING UNIT POSITION The salary for this position is $86,700 plus a $1.25 per hour shift differential ...

Stationary Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$49.96/hr

Benefits Benefits include medical, dental, and vision offered through the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399. In addition, RFU offers paid parental leave; short term and long term ...

This is an Operating Engineer 150 position and will work the day shift subject to change. Dragline Operators are given primary responsibility of performing all underwater sand & gravel extraction ...

Support the development and implementation of standard operating procedures for facility equipment and processes. * Organize and maintain 24/7 boiler coverage through stationary engineering personnel ...

Must be a current member of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 399 Engineer Apprenticeship program * Must be enrolled in apprenticeship program through IUOE Local 399 * Must ...

Engineer Apprentice

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25/hr

Must be a current member of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 399 Engineer Apprenticeship program * Must be enrolled in apprenticeship program through IUOE Local 399 * Must ...

Engineer Apprentice

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.25/hr

Must be a current member of the International Union of Operating Engineers - Local 399 Engineer Apprenticeship program * Must be enrolled in apprenticeship program through IUOE Local 399 * Must ...

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Joliet, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Showing results 41-60

Operating Engineer information

See Aurora, IL salary details

$35.7K

$84.3K

$133.8K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Aurora, IL is $84,300.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,900.00 and $93,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an operating engineer?

Operating Engineers are skilled professionals who operate and maintain heavy machinery and equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, excavators, and loaders, commonly used on construction sites and in other industrial settings. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of this equipment, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and sometimes assisting with repairs. Operating Engineers play a critical role in the successful completion of construction and infrastructure projects by helping move materials, clear land, and perform tasks that require mechanical power.

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

To thrive as an Operating Engineer, you need expertise in operating, maintaining, and repairing complex machinery, often backed by a high school diploma, technical training, and relevant licenses or certifications. Familiarity with control systems, heavy equipment, and safety protocols—such as OSHA standards—is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operation of equipment, minimize downtime, and help maintain a secure work environment.

What are some common challenges operating engineers face when managing multiple pieces of equipment on a job site?

Operating Engineers often juggle the operation and maintenance of several types of heavy machinery, such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, which requires strong multitasking and organizational skills. A common challenge is coordinating equipment use efficiently to avoid downtime and bottlenecks, particularly on busy construction sites with tight schedules. Additionally, they must remain vigilant about safety protocols and equipment inspections to prevent accidents or mechanical failures. Effective communication with site supervisors and other team members is crucial to ensure a smooth workflow and address any issues promptly.

What is the difference between Operating Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectOperating EngineerMaintenance Technician
CredentialsOSHA certifications, state licenses, technical trainingOSHA certifications, technical/vocational training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, power plants, large facilitiesBuildings, manufacturing plants, facilities maintenance
Employer & IndustryConstruction, utilities, manufacturingFacilities management, manufacturing, commercial buildings

Operating Engineers and Maintenance Technicians often share certifications and work in industrial or large facility environments. Operating Engineers focus on operating and maintaining heavy machinery and equipment, while Maintenance Technicians handle repairs and preventive maintenance of building systems. Both roles are essential for facility operations, but their specific duties and focus areas differ.

How much do operating engineers make in the US?

Operating engineers in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Skilled operators with certifications and experience can earn higher salaries, especially in construction, power plants, or heavy industrial environments.

Is an operating engineer hard to get into?

Becoming an operating engineer typically requires completing technical training, obtaining relevant certifications, and gaining experience with heavy machinery. Entry can be competitive, especially for union positions, but proper training and licensing improve job prospects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operating Engineer jobs in Aurora, IL?

The most popular types of Operating Engineer jobs in Aurora, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Aurora, IL?

For Operating Engineer jobs in Aurora, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Aurora, IL are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities near Aurora, IL with the most Operating Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Aurora, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,300 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

Sinker EDM Applications Engineer

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

MC Machinery Systems, Inc.
201 - 500 employees

$65K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Independently review, evaluate, and resolve applications-related problems at customer sites to improve machine performance.

  • Provide training to customers on processing methods to enhance machinery performance and optimize usage.

  • Support sales efforts by performing test cuts and demonstrations for prospective customers.


Job description

 
Job Title: SEDM Applications Engineer
Department: Sales Engineering 


 DESCRIPTION: 

Primary purpose of this job function is to exercise independent judgment and discretion to resolve application-related machine operation problems of company/customers. In addition, job incumbent must be able to exercise independent discretion and judgment to determine best training methodologies and train customers on how to process material in a production environment in an effort to improve/enhance the performance of industrial machinery.   Collaborate with Applications Engineers to prepare and carry out marketing efforts with the purpose of securing business from prospective customers.  Support sales efforts by performing test cuts and demonstrations for prospective customers. Regional applications engineers focus primarily within the territory they are assigned to but can be utilized throughout North America as needed. 

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Independently review, evaluate and resolve applications-related problems at customer sites with the overall intention of improving and enhancing performance of customer’s electrical discharge machinery
  • Provide timely, appropriate responses and resolutions to customer reports, and as necessary, determine whom else at MC Machinery to involve in customer problem solving
  • Exercise independent judgement and discretion to create solutions for customers in addressing applications-related problems
  • Diagnose application-related problems and troubleshoot via telephone
  • Increase sales and MC Machinery revenue by identifying customer opportunities for sales and engaging in such activity when so identified
  • Provide high power processing training to customers (and in some events other MC Machinery employees) with the overall intention of instructing and/or recommending methods that will improve and enhance the performance of the machinery and optimize its usage for their particular needs 
  • Exercise independent judgement and discretion to create training programs for customers
  • Communicate professionally and effectively with customers
  • Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Ability to work independently and use judgement to determine customer problems without direct supervision
  • Ability to interact with customers in a way so as to maintain customer confidence in MC   Machinery and MC Machinery product
  • Ability to identify opportunities to sell customers additional MC Machinery products and to sell product in such opportunities
  • Considerable knowledge and the ability to apply the principles and practices of application engineering to the functionality of electrical discharge machinery
  • Comprehensive mastery of applicable industry standards and the ability to draw upon that knowledge to create innovative solutions to customers’ challenges
  •  Knowledge and ability to apply industry standards that may not be completely applicable to the work and may require adaptation, modification or deviation 
  • Ability to effectively document and communicate ideas, strategies, problems and solutions in both verbal and written forms to colleagues and customers
  • Ability to create strategic and effective solutions to customers’ problems
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the principles and practices or application engineering to electrical discharge machinery 
  • Working knowledge of CAD/CAM software and its functions 
  • CNC programming skills
  • Ability to operate computer using windows operating systems
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, team environment
  • Travel if necessary, current valid drivers’ license required

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

A minimum of 2 or more years of experience operating, programming, setting up and developing processes for electrical discharge machinery is preferred. Training may be provided for the candidate that has 2 or more years of machine shop experience.