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Operating Engineer Jobs in Peoria, IL (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Working knowledge of Linux operating systems, command-line tools, system configuration, and ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

Control Systems Engineer

Chillicothe, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Translate customer and operator feedback into measurable product improvements. * Support product ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Eureka, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Tremont, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Carlock, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Mackinaw, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Delavan, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Goodfield, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Minier, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Hopedale, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Danvers, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Stanford, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Deer Creek, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

San Jose, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Morton, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Senior Reactor Operator

Secor, IL · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Degree from a 4-year program or equivalent in engineering, engineering technology, or physical sciences, or professional engineer license, and more than 1.5 years as a qualified non-licensed operator ...

Autonomy Engineer

Mossville, IL · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

... operating procedures, and safety procedures. * Utilizing appropriate tools to debug, test and ... Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or ...

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Operating Engineer information

See Peoria, IL salary details

$35.3K

$83.4K

$132.5K

How much do operating engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineer in Peoria, IL is $83,429.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,200.00 and $92,200.00 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 Peoria, IL are hiring for Operating Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Operating Engineer job openings in Peoria, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,429 per year, or $40.1 per hour.

Systems Engineer

RFA Engineering

Chillicothe, IL • On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking a growth-oriented candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate hybrid with a minimum of 3 days a week at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility in Mossville, IL.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Systems Engineer
This position will apply the principles of computer science and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing, and evaluation of the software and systems that make computers work. A typical systems engineer analyzes user needs, and then designs, tests, and develops software to meet those needs.
Responsibilities
  • Design, deploy, and support machine-based data collection systems and connectivity solutions across a variety of equipment and operating environments.
  • Perform data collection, validation, and quality assurance activities to ensure accurate and reliable system performance.
  • Install, calibrate, and troubleshoot cameras, radar, LiDAR, GPS, and data acquisition hardware.
  • Execute system integration, validation, and field-testing activities for advanced safety and automation technologies.
  • Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, networking, and machine integration issues in both laboratory and field environments.
  • Develop and maintain engineering documentation, test procedures, validation plans, and technical reports.
  • Support proving ground, customer site, and machine testing activities, including occasional travel to domestic and international locations.
  • Collaborate with global software, systems, controls, validation, and product support teams to deliver robust and reliable solutions.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance test processes, data quality, and system performance.

Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Master's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline may be considered in lieu of some experience requirements.
  • +2 years of professional experience in systems engineering, machine integration, test engineering, automation, data acquisition, or related technical fields.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of systems engineering principles, including system architecture, integration, validation, verification, and troubleshooting.
  • Experience working with networking technologies, communication protocols, and system connectivity solutions in laboratory or field environments.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with CAN-based communication networks and industry-standard diagnostic and data analysis tools such as Vector CANalyzer, CANoe, or similar applications.
  • Working knowledge of Linux operating systems, command-line tools, system configuration, and troubleshooting.
  • Experience installing, calibrating, validating, and troubleshooting camera, radar, LiDAR, GPS, and other sensor technologies.
  • Proficiency with Python scripting for test automation, data analysis, workflow optimization, and system validation activities.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $90,000-$110,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.