1

Operating Engineer Jobs in Cook County, IL (NOW HIRING)

Operating Engineer

Campus, IL · On-site

$37.25 - $41/hr

Operating Engineering 1 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality: Full On Campus Presence Union: Excluded Summary: The Operating Engineer, under the direction of ...

New

Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$51.54/hr

Operating Engineer Develop your engineering career at JLL! The Operating Engineer supports operation, inspection and maintenance processes to mechanical, HVAC, electrical and plumbing equipment and ...

Operating Engineer

Oak Lawn, IL · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary About Cushman & Wakefield Our purpose is simple: to put our clients and our people at the center of what is next in the world of real estate. Our promise is ...

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL

$71K - $96K/yr

Operating Engineers use different types of heavy equipment at construction sites. Please note that F.H. Paschen is signatory to a collective bargaining agreement that requires all Operating Engineers ...

Operating Engineer

Northlake, IL · On-site

$67K - $91K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for the assigned property(s)

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer, you will be responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for an assigned property.

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer, you will be responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for an assigned property.

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer, you will be responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for an assigned property.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Operating Engineer information

See Cook County, IL salary details

$36.1K

$85.3K

$135.4K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Cook County, IL is $85,255.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,700.00 and $94,200.00 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 cities near Cook County, IL are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Cook County, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,255 per year, or $41 per hour.

Operating Engineer

American

Campus, IL • On-site

$37.25 - $41/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University

Department:

Operating Engineering 1

Time Type:

Full time


Job Type:

Regular

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

Work Modality:

Full On Campus Presence

Union:

Excluded

Job Description:

Summary:

The Operating Engineer, under the direction of the Assistant Chief and Lead Operating Engineers, works interdependently to resolve facility issues and customer concerns. Provides support in the operation, maintenance, and repair activities associated with the University's utility systems. Supports the resolution of after-hours and weekend requests. May be required to handle the responsibilities of other Operating Engineers or Assistant Operating Engineers in their absence. Coordinates and reviews the work of others, and trains and mentors new staff members and others as appropriate.

Essential Functions:

  • Participates in the operation, maintenance (preventative and predictive), trouble shooting, and repair of campus thermal systems (including but not limited to steam, chilled water, and heating water), related plant equipment, water treatment systems (including but not limited to natatorium systems, boiler systems, and chiller systems) as well as maintenance and repair of domestic water & sewer campus distribution systems, and campus gas utility distribution systems to assure the fitness for use and reliability of our buildings, systems and equipment. Trains Assistant Operating Engineers and FMT as required with regards to the above systems. Operates and maintains systems to meet department, reliability, and energy efficiency objectives along with regulatory compliance requirements.

  • Maintains records pertaining to the inspection, operation, maintenance and repair of campus utilities systems, and related plant equipment to build a database from which historical data can be used to optimize scheduling and repair of critical components of the heating and cooling systems. Makes recommendations to improve the efficiency and reliability of campus managed utility systems. Responsible for the proper storage and usage of tools and equipment used in the repair operations to ensure the availability of an adequate operating inventory of tools and supplies.

  • Performs inspections of campus utilities systems, and related plant equipment tests to ensure that boiler and chiller water chemistry is within acceptable limits and maintains proper chemical water treatment through the knowledge and application of approved training provided by the chemical distributor.

  • Supports in the resolution of afterhours and weekend request received though the customer response center line (2Fix).

  • Completes approved training and performance requirements to meet department goals as well as regulatory requirements. Maintains an IDP (Individual Development Plan). Ensures all items are documented in the LMS (Learning Management System).

Competencies:

  • Championing Customer Needs.

  • Building and Supporting Teams.

  • Evaluating and Implementing Ideas.

  • Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

  • Full-time.

  • 40 hours per week.

  • Evening and weekend work is required.

  • This position will be required to work multiple shifts. Current shift schedules are (7AM to 3PM, 3PM to 11PM, 11PM to 7AM).

  • This is a relief position, 24/7 coverage. The incumbent will be required to work a second consecutive shift should their relief fail to arrive for the next shift.

  • The incumbent is required to work unscheduled shifts as needed.

  • The position will perform job duties in confined spaces and be exposed to extreme temperatures.

  • This is a physically demanding position which requires strenuous physical exertion such as frequent or constant lifting, pushing, and/or pulling of heavy objects to perform essential functions, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Salary Range:

  • $37.25 - $41.00 per hour.

Required Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • 1 - 3 years of relevant experience working in: 1.) A plant having high pressure steam boilers not to exceed four hundred (400) horsepower or a combination of high- pressure boilers and heating boilers or refrigeration equipment, not to exceed a total of four hundred (400) horsepower; 2.) A heating plant having low pressure steam boilers with a pump return and refrigeration equipment, with no limitation on total capacity; or 3.) A heating plant having hot water boilers and refrigeration equipment, with no limitation on total capacity.

Preferred Education and Experience:

  • Facilities Management Certificate.

  • LEED Green Associate Certification.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

1.) Required Education & Licenses

  • H.S. Diploma or equivalent. 3rd Class DC Steam Engineer's license (non-restricted) by the date of hire. Must possess a current and valid United States driver's license at the time of hire and be able to obtain and maintain University driving privileges.

2.) Central Plant Operations

  • Strong working knowledge of and the ability to perform moderately complex technical tasks to support the operation, maintenance, and repair of assigned utility systems and related equipment. Ability to understand blueprints and moderately complex technical manuals. Strong working knowledge of the tools, equipment, regulations, and procedures relevant to site-specific systems. Ability to become proficient in all site-specific systems.

3.) Math & Science

  • Knowledge of practical math, percentages, decimals, and fractions, length, area, and volume measurement. Knowledge of and ability to understand fundamental principles related to thermodynamics and basic water chemistry.

4.) Building Automation Systems (BAS)

  • Basic knowledge of BAS and ability to independently resolve routine problems.

5.) Decision-Making & Leadership

  • Receives general Supervision. Ability to independently resolve moderately complex technical problems and serve as a point of escalation for nonroutine problem resolution. Ability to review one's own and others' work to ensure completeness and accuracy, carefully prepare for meetings, and organize information or materials for others.

6.) Communication & Interpersonal

  • Ability to express oneself orally in a clear and concise manner, while seeking and accepting feedback in a non-defensive manner, and providing constructive feedback and instruction to coworkers as appropriate. Ability to produce accurate and clear written material on topics of moderate complexity that is appropriate to the audience and free of spelling and grammatical errors. Proactive and demonstrated commitment to treating all individuals with dignity, compassion, and respect.

7.) Technology

  • Ability to use Microsoft Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint to prepare briefings, reports, and presentations.

8.) Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry 50lbs. Ability to climb ladders and work at heights. Ability to work in confined spaces and areas with temperature extremes.

9.) Other Requirements

  • Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age by the date of hire. Interest in and commitment to ongoing professional development and training

Other Duties:

  • Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package.Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

Other Details

  • Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.

  • Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.

  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

  • American University is an E-Verify employer.

Current American University Employees

American University current employees must apply through their employee Workday account. If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoWorkdayand select the Find Jobs report which will take you to our internal career listings.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, emailtheworkline@american.edu.

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual's genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.