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

Lead Operating Engineer

Campus, IL · On-site

$43 - $48/hr

Operating Engineering 2 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality: Full On Campus Presence Union: Excluded Summary: The Lead Operating Engineer serves as Team Lead ...

Operating Engineer

Oakbrook Terrace, IL

$69K - $94K/yr

Operating Engineer (2nd Shift) - JLL What this job involves: As a 2nd Shift Operating Engineer at JLL, you will be responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of mechanical, electrical ...

Operating Engineering 1 Time Type: Full time Job Type: Regular FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Work Modality: Full On Campus Presence Union: Excluded Summary: The Lead Operating Engineer serves as a Team ...

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 ...

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)

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 ...

The Operating Engineer supports operation,inspectionand maintenance processes to mechanical,HVAC,electrical and plumbingequipmentand systems. This position requires theOperating Engineerto be on-site.

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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 Jul 13, 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 are Operating Engineers?

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often working in high-demand industries or leadership roles.

What does an operations engineer do?

An operations engineer is responsible for managing and maintaining the systems, equipment, and infrastructure within an organization to ensure smooth and efficient operations. They often troubleshoot technical issues, optimize processes, and may work with tools like automation software or monitoring systems, sometimes requiring certifications or specialized training. Their role is essential in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or facilities management to support continuous operation.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced certifications, management responsibilities, or working in high-demand industries.

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.

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior operating engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as HVAC or power plant licenses, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-paying roles often involve managing large facilities, working in critical environments, or overseeing complex systems, sometimes with overtime or shift differentials included.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,255 per year, or $41 per hour.
Lead Operating Engineer

Lead Operating Engineer

American

Campus, IL • On-site

$43 - $48/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


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 2

Time Type:

Full time


Job Type:

Regular

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt

Work Modality:

Full On Campus Presence

Union:

Excluded

Job Description:

Summary:

The Lead Operating Engineer serves as Team Lead and oversees the work of Operating Engineers and other trade staff within the Energy Management unit performing the inspection, efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of campus utility systems and related plant equipment. Under the direction of the Assistant Chief Engineer, this position works independently with leeway to resolve facility issues and customer concerns, while ensuring adherence to quality standards and providing exceptional customer service.

Essential Functions:

  • Serves as Team Lead. Schedules work assignments, sets priorities, and directs the work of Operating Engineers and Assistant Operating Engineers. Identifies staff training needs and ensures training is obtained.

  • Participates in the operation, maintenance (preventative and predictive), troubleshooting, 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. 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 thermal systems, campus domestic water & sewer distribution systems, campus gas distribution systems, water treatment systems, and related plant equipment to build a database from which historical data can be used to maximize 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 conducted by the position to have tools available and in proper operating condition when needed.

  • Performs facilities commissioning activities (e.g., reviewing of new and upgraded mechanical equipment or systems) to ensure that operational, maintenance, repair, and energy efficiency impacts on the Central Plant Operations and Energy and Engineering units are minimized.

  • Completes 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).

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

  • Prepares accident/incident reports and documentation for recommended corrective actions related to the Staff HR Policy manual.

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:

  • $43.00 - $48.00 per hour.

Required Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • 3 - 5 years of relevant experience.

  • At least two (2) years' experience working in 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; a heating plant having low pressure steam boilers with a pump return and refrigeration equipment, with no limitation on total capacity; or a heating plant having hot water boilers and refrigeration equipment, with no limitation on total capacity.

  • At least one (1) year of experience as an assistant engineer in charge of a 3rd Class plant or as a Class 2 steam engineer.

Preferred Education and Experience:

  • Facilities Management Certificate.

  • LEED Green Associate.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

1.) Required Education and 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

  • Thorough knowledge of and the ability to perform complex technical tasks to support the operation, maintenance, and repair of site-specific utility systems. Ability to understand blueprints, general engineering drawings, and complex technical manuals. Thorough knowledge of the tools, equipment, regulations, and procedures relevant to site-specific systems. Proficiency in all site-specific systems.

3.) Math and Science

  • Knowledge of arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages, fractions, roots, exponents, and the ability to perform math operations based on word problems), decimals, length, area, and volume measurement. An understanding of the fundamental principles of thermodynamics, chemistry, and energy efficiency relevant to the work performed.

4.) Building Automation Systems (BAS)

  • Working knowledge of BAS and ability to independently resolve moderately complex problems.

5.) Decision-Making and Leadership

  • Receives limited supervision. Ability to independently resolve complex technical problems and serve as a point of escalation for moderately complex problem resolution. Ability to schedule work assignments, set priorities, train, and direct the work of others, and ensure adherence to quality standards and timelines. Ability to motivate others by personal example and by direct coaching to increase their abilities to demonstrate respectful and compassionate interaction.

6.) Communication and Interpersonal

  • Ability to express oneself orally in a clear and concise manner, seek and deliver constructive feedback, and adapt communication style to the task and audience. Ability to produce clear, technically accurate, and accessible written materials on complex topics. Demonstrated commitment to self-awareness and desire to continuously improve one's ability to interact with others in a respectful and compassionate way.

7.) Technology

  • Ability to use Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, 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.