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Operating Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

County of DuPage

Stationary Engineer

Wheaton, IL

$86K/yr

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 ...

County of DuPage

Stationary Engineer

Wheaton, IL

$86K/yr

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 ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsOperating Engineer JobsOperating Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Operating Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.1K

$87.6K

$139.1K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Chicago, IL is $87,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $96,800.00 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 Chicago, IL?

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,592 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Facilities Engineer II-Full Time Evenings

Catherine Gratz Griffin LFH

Lake Forest, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description

**This is a full time position at 40 hours per week located at Catherine Gratz Griffin Lake Forest Hospital. The schedule is Tuesday to Saturday, 2:30p to 11p. **

The Facilities Engineer II reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization's Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

  • As a licensed operating engineer, operates and maintains building mechanical systems and equipment. Power Plant equipment includes high pressure boilers, chillers, and medical air compressors. The goals are to operate the equipment safely, efficiently, and reliably with the minimal occurrences of unscheduled shutdowns. In addition, to provide comfortable condition and safe occupant ambient space.

Responsibilities:

  • Operates and assists in maintaining and repairing all power plant equipment with minor supervision. Monitors other engineering systems and to take emergency actions as necessary.
  • Operates high pressure boilers and related equipment. Which includes chillers, cooling towers, domestic hot water heating system, water heating system, generators, electrical switchgear, energy management system.
  • Properly performs safety checks on plant equipment. Performs repairs and preventive maintenance on assigned equipment.
  • Cleans and paints equipment, piping, and associated accessories in power plant and mechanical rooms.
  • Chemically analyzes boiler, chiller, cooling tower and all closed loop systems.
  • Performs chemical analysis test and adds the correct amount of chemicals to keep a prescribed balance in boiler, cooling tower and closed loops.
  • Changes and disposes of chemical drums properly and uses proper safety equipment while working with chemicals. Understands the importance of chemical balance in all systems.
  • Responds to plant emergencies and knows location of firefighting equipment. 
  • Responds to service requests and performs problem assessment, troubleshooting, correction, and documentation. 
  • Performs scheduled maintenance and inspections in accordance with organizational and regulatory protocols, policies, and standards. 
  • Operates facility equipment and systems on a routine and as needed basis in a safe and efficient manner.
  • May assist contractors/vendors with repairs, maintenance, and construction.

Qualifications

    Required:

    • High school diploma or equivalent
    • 2-3 years relevant building maintenance experience
    • Technical training in maintenance field; HVAC/R trade school certifiction or equivalent
    • Licensed as a Stationary Engineer OR the ability to obtain within 1 year of hire.
    • Valid driver's license (must provide Driving Abstract)

    Preferred:

    • Hospital or military experience
    • One year training in Boiler Maintenance
    • Current universal refrigerant certification

    Equal Opportunity

    Northwestern Medicine is an equal opportunity employer (disability, VETS) and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.

    Background Check

    Northwestern Medicine conducts a background check that includes criminal history on newly hired team members and, at times, internal transfers. If you are offered a position with us, you will be required to complete an authorization and disclosure form that gives Northwestern Medicine permission to run the background check.  Results are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and we follow all local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

    Artificial Intelligence Disclosure

    Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position, however, all employment decisions will be made by a person. 

    Benefits

    We offer a wide range of benefits that provide employees with tools and resources to improve their physical, emotional, and financial well-being while providing protection for unexpected life events. Please visit our Benefits section to learn more.

    Sign-on Bonus Eligibility (if sign-on bonus offered for position): Internal employees and rehires who left Northwestern Medicine within 1 year are not eligible for the sign on bonus. Exception: New graduate internal employees seeking their first licensed clinical position at NM may be eligible depending upon the job family. 

    Qualifications:

      Required:

      • High school diploma or equivalent
      • 2-3 years relevant building maintenance experience
      • Technical training in maintenance field; HVAC/R trade school certifiction or equivalent
      • Licensed as a Stationary Engineer OR the ability to obtain within 1 year of hire.
      • Valid driver's license (must provide Driving Abstract)

      Preferred:

      • Hospital or military experience
      • One year training in Boiler Maintenance
      • Current universal refrigerant certification
      Education:Not in Patient Care Giver RoleEmployment Type: Full-time

      Apply