1

Operating Engineer Jobs in Niles, IL (NOW HIRING)

Job ID # Union Operating Engineer (System Generated) FLSA Status Job Type: Non-Exempt Regular Job Hours: Location: Full Time Vernon Hills, Illinois Department: Reports To: Engineering Lead, Assistant ...

Operating Engineer - JLL What this job involves: As an Operating Engineer with JLL in downtown Chicago, you will play a critical role in maintaining safe, efficient, and reliable building operations ...

Such duties include, but are not limited to, operating all heating and air conditioning equipment ... The Apprentice Engineer must be a current member and remain a member of Local 399's Engineer ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Operating Engineer information

See Niles, IL salary details

$35.8K

$84.6K

$134.4K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Niles, IL is $84,630.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,200.00 and $93,600.00 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 popular job titles related to Operating Engineer jobs in Niles, IL?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Niles, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,630 per year, or $40.7 per hour.

Union Operating Engineer: Building Systems & HVAC

Chicago, IL • On-site

CBRE Group, Inc.
Real Estate • 10K+ employees

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC requirements of the building.

  • Maintain heating equipment, chillers, DX units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, etc., and verify field conditions for repairs or adjustments.

  • Inspect and repair engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling towers, motors, pumps, electric rooms, backup generator, fire pumps, sump pumps, and ejector pumps.


Job description

About the Role:

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.

This job is part of the Engineering and Technical Services job function. They are responsible for providing support, preventive maintenance, and repairs on equipment and systems.

What You’ll Do:
  • Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC requirements of the building.
  • Maintain heating equipment, chillers, DX units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, etc.
  • Verify field conditions and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments.
  • Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, and floors and other general repairs, adjustments, and installations throughout the property.
  • Perform repairs to plumbing fixtures. This includes water closets, urinals, flush valve assemblies, lavatories, etc.
  • Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric rooms, back-up generator, fire pumps, sump pumps, and ejector pumps.
  • Replace lamps, light fixtures, reinstall or replace signage.
  • Document and report activities to supervisor.
  • Respond immediately to emergency situations. This includes fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.
  • Complete all required Safety Training as scheduled and answer customer inquiries in a timely fashion.
  • Apply in-depth knowledge of standard principles and techniques/procedures to accomplish complex assignments and provide innovative solutions.
  • Coach others and share in-depth knowledge of own job discipline and broad knowledge of several job disciplines within the function.
  • Lead by example and model behaviors that are consistent with CBRE RISE values. Work to build consensus and convince others to reach an agreement.
  • Impact a range of customer, operational, project or service activities within own team and other related teams.
  • Work within broad guidelines and policies.
  • Explain difficult or sensitive information.
What You’ll Need:
  • High School Diploma, GED, or trade school diploma with 4-5 years of job-related experience. In lieu of a diploma, a combination of experience and education will be considered. Prior shift manager or supervisory experience preferred. Journeyman or EPA Universal License required. Local 399 Union Member required.
  • Meet the physical requirements of this role including stooping, standing, walking, climbing stairs/ladders, and the ability to lift/carry heavy loads of 50 lbs. or more.
  • Ability to exercise judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information.
  • Willingness to take a new perspective on existing solutions.
  • In-depth knowledge of Microsoft Office products. Examples include Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.
  • Organizational skills with an advanced inquisitive mindset.

*Should any element of this Job Description conflict with the provisions of an applicable collective bargaining agreement, the terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement will prevail.

Why CBRE

When you join CBRE, you become part of the global leader in commercial real estate services and investment that helps businesses and people thrive. We are dynamic problem solvers and forward-thinking professionals who create significant impact. Our collaborative culture is built on our shared values — respect, integrity, service and excellence — and we value the diverse perspectives, backgrounds and skillsets of our people. At CBRE, you have the opportunity to chart your own course and realize your potential. We welcome all applicants.

Our Values in Hiring

At CBRE, we are committed to fostering a culture where everyone feels they belong. We value diverse perspectives and experiences, and we welcome all applications.

Disclaimers

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Applicant AI Use Disclosure

We value human interaction to understand each candidate's unique experience, skills and aspirations. We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to make hiring decisions, and we ask that candidates disclose any use of AI in the application and interview process.

About CBRE Group, Inc.

CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2024 revenue). The company has more than 140,000 employees (including Turner & Townsend employees) serving clients in more than 100 countries. CBRE serves clients through four business segments: Advisory (leasing, sales, debt origination, mortgage serving, valuations); Building Operations & Experience (facilities management, property management, flex space & experience); Project Management (program management, project management, cost consulting); Real Estate Investments (investment management, development). Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.

#J-18808-Ljbffr