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Operating Engineer Jobs in Naperville, IL (NOW HIRING)

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.

Operating Engineer - JLL What this job involves: Join JLL as an Operating Engineer and become a vital member of our facilities team at the iconic Merchandise Mart in Chicago. This role is perfect for ...

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 ...

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Operating Engineer information

See Naperville, IL salary details

$35.9K

$84.9K

$134.8K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Naperville, IL is $84,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $93,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Naperville, IL? For Operating Engineer jobs in Naperville, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineer jobs in Naperville, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineer jobs in Naperville, IL are:
What cities near Naperville, IL are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs? Cities near Naperville, IL with the most Operating Engineer job openings:
[UNION] Operating Engineer

[UNION] Operating Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 152 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title

[UNION] Operating Engineer

Job Description Summary

Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for the assigned property(s). Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) maintaining a clean and safe working environment, performing rounds, conducting routine assessments, performance of day-to-day preventive and corrective maintenance, painting, and housekeeping for assigned properties

Job Description

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC requirements of the building(s)

Maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, VAV, and air distribution systems, etc.

Monitor and adjust all mechanical/pneumatic equipment, steam stations, control gauges, distributor panels, valves, thermostats, diffusers, and other equipment necessary to provide a comfortable environment for the buildings

Verify field conditions and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments

Monitor Energy Management

Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, and floors and other general repairs, adjustments and installations about the property

Perform repairs to plumbing fixtures (water closets, urinals, flush valve assemblies, lavatories, etc.)

Perform preventive maintenance duties in accordance with C&W standards, building protocol, manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices. including changing filters, cleaning coils, flushing condensers, punching tubes, greasing fan, pump and motor bearings as required, inspecting and adjusting belts, replacing motor bearings, aligning pulleys and shafts, monitor condenser, chilled, heating and secondary water chemical treatment and its associated feed equipment, clean and maintain cooling towers, and perform annual inspections and other scheduled routines as directed.

Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric rooms, back-up generator, fire pump(s), sump pump(s), and ejector pumps. Replace lamps, light fixtures, reinstall or replace signage, verify rooms are clean and clear of obstructions and debris Check for properly operating emergency exit signs and lights and ensure free and clear access to emergency stairs and exits. Perform additional fire and life safety inspections as per NFPA and local jurisdiction, C&W standards, building protocol and as directed by superiors and property management

Document and report activities to supervisor

Respond immediately to emergency situations (fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.) and customer concerns

Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as relates to building operations and practice safe work habits Complete all required C&W Safety Training as scheduled annually

Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code while working and maintain a neat and clean appearance while on the property at times other than working hours

KEY COMPETENCIES

Technical Proficiency

Initiative

Flexibility

Multi-Tasking

Sense of Urgency

IMPORTANT EDUCATION

High School Diploma of GED Equivalent

Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred

IMPORTANT EXPERIENCE

5+ years of related work experience in operating mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS

Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, i.e. Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses, such as Refrigeration Certificate of Fitness, High Pressure Boiler License, High Pressure Steam Operator, etc.)

May be required to have certification as a Universal Technician for CFC's depending on market licensure requirements

Possess and maintain a valid driver's license and good driving record with periodic checks (where applicable)

Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word

Experience in operation, maintenance and basic repair of HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, water systems, etc.

Knowledgeable in energy management systems, techniques and operations.

Thorough knowledge in all building systems operations, maintenance and repair. May be only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts; may be required to work extended periods of time without relief when responding to priority/emergency situations (including overtime type assignments); may require shift work and/or on call duties

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Regularly required to travel outside between properties in varying weather conditions.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Must have ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs. of equipment (pumps, tools, ladders) and safely install rigging/lifting devices

Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine

Involves movement between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work

Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you

Ability to read and understand information presented orally and in writing

Regularly required to utilize vision abilities, allowing reading of printed material, drawings, and schematics

OTHER DUTIES

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.


Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate's experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $42.25 - $49.70Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or emailAccommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.

INCO: "Cushman & Wakefield"

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