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Operations Maintenance Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Engtal

Furnace Operations Manager

Hammond, IN · On-site

$48.08 - $57.69/hr

Maintain a strong, visible presence on the production floor * Build, coach, and develop a strong operations team * Ensure production needs are met safely and efficiently * Work closely with ...

Engtal

Furnace Operations Manager

Hammond, IN

$48.08 - $57.69/hr

Maintain a strong, visible presence on the production floor * Build, coach, and develop a strong operations team * Ensure production needs are met safely and efficiently * Work closely with ...

Frozen Food Express

Facility Maintenance

Lemont, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Operations / Maintenance Reports To: Warehouse Manager or Terminal Manager Position Summary The Facility Maintenance Technician is responsible for maintaining the integrity, safety, and efficiency of ...

JBAndrews

Site Operations Manager

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

Build and maintain a strong relationship with the customer, managing expectations and acting as the senior point of contact for operational and service-related matters. * Lead, coach and develop the ...

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All JobsOperations Maintenance JobsOperations Maintenance Jobs in Chicago, IL

Operations Maintenance information

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How much do operations maintenance jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for operations maintenance in Chicago, IL is $25.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $28.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Operations Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Operations Maintenance jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Operations Maintenance jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Operations Maintenance job openings:

Operations Maintenance jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operations Maintenance job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,999 per year, or $25 per hour.

Furnace Operations Manager

Engtal

Hammond, IN • On-site

$48.08 - $57.69/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Furnace Operations Manager to lead a critical production department within a heavy industrial manufacturing environment. This is a hands-on leadership position for someone who enjoys being on the production floor, developing teams, and taking full ownership of day-to-day operations.

Direct aluminum experience is not required. We are open to leaders from metals, steel, foundry, casting, smelting, extrusion, plastics extrusion, and other relevant industrial manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities
  • Lead and develop a department of approximately 30–40 employees
  • Oversee day-to-day furnace melting and dross operations
  • Manage production scheduling, organization, staffing, and workflow
  • Take ownership of the department and operate it like an individual business unit
  • Maintain a strong, visible presence on the production floor
  • Build, coach, and develop a strong operations team
  • Ensure production needs are met safely and efficiently
  • Work closely with operations, maintenance, safety, and other departments
  • Oversee operations involving industrial equipment such as furnaces, forklifts, payloaders, and conveyor systems
  • Follow established safety, operational, and ISO procedures
  • Help troubleshoot operational issues and keep production moving
  • Maintain responsibility for the department beyond normal business hours when operational needs arise
Qualifications
  • 5+ years of industrial/manufacturing leadership experience preferred
  • Strong supervisors ready to take the next step into management may also be considered
  • Previous experience leading employees in a manufacturing, metals, processing, or other industrial environment
  • Proven ability to build, lead, and hold teams accountable
  • Strong organization and production scheduling skills
  • Comfortable managing approximately 30–40 employees
  • Comfortable working in a hands-on, heavy industrial environment
  • Strong shop-floor leadership presence
  • Ability to work with production-related math and chemistry
  • Ability to take ownership of a department rather than operate within a strict Monday–Friday management schedule
  • Strong understanding of day-to-day production operations and manufacturing safety
Relevant Experience

Experience in any of the following environments can translate well:

  • Furnace or melting operations
  • Smelting
  • Foundry operations
  • Casting
  • Extrusion
  • Steel or metal processing
  • Aluminum manufacturing
  • Plastics extrusion
  • Heavy industrial manufacturing

Rotary furnace experience is a major plus, but strong manufacturing leadership ability is more important than having direct aluminum furnace experience.