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Operations Maintenance Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Leads the maintenance and operations team. * Coordinate and execute all outages to ensure minimum down time and cost control. * Using established employee selection techniques, hires, trains and ...

Leads the maintenance and operations team. * Coordinate and execute all outages to ensure minimum down time and cost control. * Using established employee selection techniques, hires, trains and ...

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Operations Maintenance Technician

Dixon, IL ยท On-site

$30.77 - $44.47/hr

Ameresco has a new opportunity for an Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Technician to join our team at the Lee County Plant in Illinois. The Plant Specialist will report to the Assistant Region Manager ...

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Operations Maintenance information

See Illinois salary details

$8

$23

$45

How much do operations maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations maintenance in Illinois is $23.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $26.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operations Maintenance professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operations Maintenance professional, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, preventive maintenance techniques, and often a technical diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), diagnostic tools, and safety regulations is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help professionals excel in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, and maintaining safe and efficient operations.

What is Operations Maintenance?

Operations Maintenance refers to the ongoing activities required to keep equipment, machinery, and facilities functioning efficiently within an organization. This typically includes routine inspections, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairing any issues that arise. The goal is to minimize downtime, ensure safety, and extend the lifespan of assets. Operations Maintenance professionals work in various industries such as manufacturing, utilities, and facilities management, playing a crucial role in daily business operations.

What is the difference between Operations Maintenance vs Equipment Technician?

AspectOperations MaintenanceEquipment Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredHigh school diploma; technical certifications or associate degree often required
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, or facilities managementManufacturing floors, industrial sites, or equipment repair shops
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, facilities management, energy, and utilitiesManufacturing, industrial maintenance, and equipment repair
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in maintenance and operationsTechnical repair and equipment troubleshooting

Operations Maintenance professionals focus on maintaining and operating industrial systems, ensuring smooth facility functions. Equipment Technicians specialize in repairing and troubleshooting specific machinery. While both roles require technical skills and certifications, Operations Maintenance covers broader operational tasks, whereas Equipment Technicians focus on equipment-specific repairs.

What are some typical challenges faced in an Operations Maintenance role and how can they be addressed?

Operations Maintenance professionals often encounter challenges such as unexpected equipment breakdowns, tight maintenance schedules, and balancing preventive versus reactive tasks. To address these, it's important to prioritize preventive maintenance, communicate effectively with production teams to schedule downtime, and stay current with training on new technologies. Building strong relationships with other departments and maintaining accurate maintenance records can also help minimize disruptions and improve overall equipment reliability.
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Operations Maintenance jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Operations Maintenance job openings:
Infographic showing various Operations Maintenance job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,914 per year, or $23.5 per hour.
Operations & Maintenance Manager

Operations & Maintenance Manager

NRG

Aurora, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Welcome to the intersection of energy and home services. At NRG, we're all about propelling the next generation of leaders forward. We are driven by our passion to create a smarter, cleaner and more connected future. We deliver innovative solutions that make our customers' lives easier-helping them power, protect, and intelligently manage their homes and businesses. To do this, we need creative and talented people to join our company.
We offer a dynamic work environment and a unified and inclusive culture. NRG fosters a strong sense of belonging that leads to better collaboration and business performance. Our company programs are designed to help employees develop the skills they need for success now and in the future. In everything we do, we aim to champion our employees and bring value to our customers, investors and society.
More information is available at www.nrg.com. Connect with NRG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and X.
Job Summary
A key member of plant management staff. Responsibilities include leading the Combustion Turbine Technicians assigned to plant maintenance and operations. The manager is responsible for maintaining all plant production equipment employing sound safety, environmental and operating principles within the NRG guidelines. Participates in the employee selection process. Ensures that all maintenance training and qualification standards for Combustion Turbine Technicians assigned to maintenance are in order. Develops and updates plant maintenance and operating procedures. Responsible for all aspects of the plant's computerized maintenance management system. Provides training as required. Assists Management Team to develop annual plant maintenance budget.
Job Functions
  • Leads the maintenance and operations team.
  • Coordinate and execute all outages to ensure minimum down time and cost control.
  • Using established employee selection techniques, hires, trains and supervises all Combustion Turbine Technicians. Provides training and development opportunities for assigned personnel.
  • Develops applicable outage plans and schedules for all outage activities.
  • Aids in development of capital budgets.
  • Coordinates outage activities and interfaces with operations contractor and vendor representatives and personnel.
  • Fosters an environment that encourages superior Safety awareness and Environmental stewardship.
  • Develops, refines, and administers plant maintenance procedures.
  • Identify plant problems and improvement projects and may act as Project Manager for the execution of approved projects.
  • Establishes and maintains housekeeping standards.
  • Perform economic analysis and submit budget requests as directed.
  • Evaluate vendor proposals as required.
  • May be assigned to Safety, environmental or other plant committee.
  • Must have hands-on experience in managing contractors and plant staff during scheduled and forced outages.
  • Actively promotes teamwork between members of the O&M staff.

Education and Experience - An equivalent combination of education, training and experience will be considered.
  • Undergraduate degree in engineering or related discipline. Work experience may be considered in lieu of education.
  • Must pass Pre-Employment drug testing and background screens.
  • Minimum of five years' supervisory experience in power generation (7FA, PC or comparable technologies) or similar continuous process environment.
  • Must demonstrate proficiency in the use of computer hardware and applicable software.
  • Must be able to perform physical requirements of the position including climbing ladders, stairs, and must be able to perform comprehensive site inspections.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities which may be representative, but not all-inclusive of those commonly associated with this position.
  • Basic data entry/computer skills.
  • Ability to create & maintain a safe working environment for all employees.
  • Ability to extend your skills and capabilities beyond predefined boundaries to contribute to the company's goals. The individual can perform a wider variety of tasks and expand their own opportunities to contribute to the company's success.
  • Work as a member of existing plant team and actively develop members as required to ensure team meets/exceeds plant goals.

Work Environment - Environmental or atmospheric conditions commonly associated with the performance of the functions of this job.
  • Protective equipment such as hard hats, safety glasses, ear protection and other equipment must be worn in the performance of some duties. Work with hazardous materials may be required.
  • Requires working extended shifts including weekend and holiday work as required by schedules, workload and plant conditions. On call status as a manager required with potential calls at any time.
  • Includes working indoors and outdoors.

Physical Abilities - The physical demands described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
  • Must be able to work on feet for extensive periods, requiring stair and ladder climbing, and routinely lifting 50 pounds.
  • Must be able to work in elevated areas, confined spaces and in extreme heat and cold conditions.

The base salary range for this position is $142,560 - $213,840. The base salary range above represents the low and high end of the salary range for this position. Actual salaries will vary based on several factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance. The range listed is just one component of the total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include annual bonus, short- and long-term incentives, and program-specific awards. In addition the position may be eligible to participate in the benefits program which include, but are not limited to, medical, vision, dental, 401K, and flexible spending accounts.
We support the use of AI tools to help you prepare for your interview (e.g., practicing responses, researching the role, or refining your resume). However, during interviews and assessments, we expect responses to reflect your own thinking, experience, and communication. Use of AI to generate or read answers in real time, complete assessments, or misrepresent your qualifications is not permitted and may impact your candidacy.
NRG Energy is committed to a drug and alcohol-free workplace. To the extent permitted by law and any applicable collective bargaining agreement, employees are subject to periodic random drug testing, and post-accident and reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing. EOE AA M/F/Protected Veteran Status/Disability. Level, Title and/or Salary may be adjusted based on the applicant's experience or skills.
EEO is the Law Poster (The poster can be found at http://www.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/poster_screen_reader_optimized.pdf)
Official description on file with Talent.

NRG logo

About NRG

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At NRG, we're bringing the power of energy to people and organizations by putting customers at the center of everything we do. We generate electricity and provide energy solutions and natural gas to millions of customers through our diverse portfolio of retail brands. A Fortune 500 company, operating in the United States and Canada, NRG delivers innovative solutions while advocating for competitive energy markets and customer choice, working towards a sustainable energy future. More information is available at www.nrg.com. Connect with NRG on Facebook, LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter @nrgenergy.

Industry

Oil and coal products manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US