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Plumbing Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Plumbing & Fire Protection II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67.35K - $79.23K/yr

Specify plumbing and fire protection equipment such as sprinkler, sewerage and medical gas systems ... Participate or lead value engineering sessions with Architectural/Engineering team. * Conduct staff ...

Plumbing & Fire Protection II

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$67.35K - $79.23K/yr

Specify plumbing and fire protection equipment such as sprinkler, sewerage and medical gas systems ... Participate or lead value engineering sessions with Architectural/Engineering team. * Conduct staff ...

Plumbing & Fire Protection IB

Chicago, IL · On-site

$62.60K - $72.98K/yr

Bachelor or Master's degree in Engineering required. Bachelor or Master's degree in Engineering from an ABET accredited program preferred. * Minimum of 2+ years of related experience required.

Plumbing & Fire Protection IB

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$62.60K - $72.98K/yr

Bachelor or Master's degree in Engineering required. Bachelor or Master's degree in Engineering from an ABET accredited program preferred. * Minimum of 2+ years of related experience required.

Plumbing Inspector

Naperville, IL · On-site

$35.58 - $39.14/hr

The Plumbing Inspector will perform field inspections of new and existing plumbing installations and work closely with contractors, engineers, architects, and property owners. The anticipated hiring ...

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Plumbing Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$98.4K

$133.4K

How much do plumbing engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for plumbing engineer in Chicago, IL is $98,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,600.00 and $110,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Plumbing Engineer?

A plumbing engineer designs plumbing systems for private, public, or commercial buildings. They typically work on large projects with mechanical, civil, or fire protection engineers. They may be involved with designing the systems for potable water, sewer waste, stormwater drainage, and fire suppression. Plumbing engineers may also prepare design drawings with CAD software to help construction workers and building managers navigate a building’s plumbing system. Plumbing engineers may also be called plumbing design engineers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plumbing Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plumbing Engineer, you need a background in mechanical or civil engineering, strong knowledge of plumbing codes, and experience with system design. Competence with CAD software, hydraulic modeling tools, and relevant certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with clients and contractors will help you excel in this role. These skills are crucial for designing safe, efficient, and code-compliant plumbing systems in residential, commercial, or industrial projects.

What are some common challenges Plumbing Engineers face when coordinating with other construction professionals on a project?

Plumbing Engineers often work closely with architects, civil engineers, and contractors to ensure plumbing systems align with the overall building design. A common challenge is managing changes in building layouts or schedules, which can impact pipe routing and fixture placement. Effective communication and adaptability are essential to resolve conflicts and maintain project timelines. Regular coordination meetings and using building information modeling (BIM) tools can help streamline collaboration and reduce errors.

What are Plumbing Engineers?

Plumbing Engineers are specialized professionals who design, plan, and oversee the installation of plumbing systems in buildings. They ensure that water supply, drainage, and waste systems meet safety standards, code requirements, and the specific needs of each project. Their work involves collaborating with architects, mechanical engineers, and contractors to create efficient and sustainable plumbing solutions. Plumbing Engineers may also be responsible for selecting materials, estimating costs, and troubleshooting issues during construction or renovation projects.

What is the difference between Plumbing Engineer vs Plumbing Designer?

AspectPlumbing EngineerPlumbing Designer
CredentialsEngineering degree, PE license often preferredDesign certifications, CAD proficiency, sometimes engineering background
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, construction sites, consulting firmsArchitectural firms, design studios, consulting
ResponsibilitiesDesigning plumbing systems, ensuring code compliance, calculationsCreating detailed plumbing layouts, drafting, material selection

Plumbing Engineers focus on system design, calculations, and compliance, often holding engineering credentials. Plumbing Designers concentrate on creating detailed drawings and layouts, typically with CAD skills. Both roles collaborate closely but differ mainly in scope and technical depth.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plumbing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Plumbing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Plumbing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Plumbing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plumbing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Plumbing Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Plumbing Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $98,362 per year, or $47.3 per hour.
Fire Protection and Plumbing Engineer

Fire Protection and Plumbing Engineer

Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$127.20K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

The Fire Protection & Plumbing Engineer leads the design, coordination, and delivery of plumbing and fire protection systems across diverse building and infrastructure projects. They provide technical leadership, quality oversight, and project management support, ensuring systems are safe, efficient, and code-compliant. The Engineer collaborates with clients and multidisciplinary teams, mentors junior staff, and contributes to business development efforts through technical expertise and client engagement.
What you will do:
  • Lead the design and development of plumbing systems including domestic water, sanitary, storm, and specialty piping.
  • Oversee fire protection system design including wet, dry, pre-action, clean agent, and specialized suppression systems.
  • Develop medical gas designs for healthcare and laboratory facilities
  • Perform and review advanced calculations such as hydraulic modeling, water supply analysis, and system sizing.
  • Prepare, and review, drawings, specifications, and reports in compliance with NFPA, IPC, UPC, and client requirements.
  • Coordinate designs across mechanical, electrical, and architectural disciplines for integrated solutions.
  • Conduct field inspections, surveys, and construction administration to verify design intent.
  • Mentor and train junior engineers and designers, fostering technical development.
  • Support project managers in maintaining schedules, budgets, and client satisfaction.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies, sustainable design practices, and evolving codes.
  • Participate in proposals, presentations, and client meetings to support business development.

Who you are:
  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Fire Protection Engineering, or related field (or in final semester).
  • 10+ years of progressive plumbing and fire protection design experience.
  • Expertise in NFPA standards, IPC, UPC, medical gas and local building codes.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and hydraulic/fire protection modeling software.
  • Demonstrated leadership in design delivery, quality control, and project coordination.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and guide teams to successful outcomes.

At Milhouse, we're more than just a place to work - we're a place to grow, thrive, and be celebrated. Here's how we invest in you:
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage - Reach out to learn how your deductible could be covered 100% through Garner Health!
  • Company Sponsored Life Insurance and Short-Term Disability - We've got your back when life takes unexpected turns.
  • Voluntary Coverages - Take control of your well-being with added coverage options.
  • Discounted Gym Membership - Stay active with wellness options that support your fitness goals.
  • Competitive Base Salary - Earn what you're worth in a performance-driven culture.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Build your future with confidence.
  • Professional Development Incentives - Get rewarded for growing your skills - including bonuses for earning your P.E. License.
  • Milhouse University (Cross-Functional Training) - Expand your expertise with internal training built to elevate your career and receive PDH credits for applicable training towards professional engineering licenses, etc..
  • Employee Education & Development Program - Tuition assistance and learning opportunities to keep you moving forward.
  • Generous PTO + Paid Holidays - Rest, recharge, and enjoy the moments that matter most.
  • Paid Parental Leave - Bond with your new arrival - and yes, we'll even cover a year of diapers!
  • Extracurricular Sports Teams - Join our summer Volleyball and Softball squads for fun off the clock.
  • Employee Recognition Program - Be celebrated for the impact you make.
  • Employee Referral Bonus - Bring great people on board and get paid for it.
  • Transit Benefits Program - Save on your daily commute.
  • Charitable Events and Activities offered through non-profit affiliate - Milhouse Charities.

$127,200 - $150,000 a year
The actual base pay depends upon many factors, such as education, experience, and skills. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.
While we provide a range, we'd love to hear from you if you are in or outside of this range as we are always looking to cater roles to the Talent we find!!
Milhouse is a pay transparency non-discrimination organization committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We ensure that all employees are compensated fairly and without bias, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. In compliance with the Illinois Equal Pay Act, effective January 1, 2025, we include pay scales and benefits in all job postings and ensure that all promotion opportunities are communicated to current employees within 14 days of external postings. Additionally, we participate in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility and uphold compliance with federal requirements.
Here's a little information on Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc.:
Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc. was founded in 2001 with the goal of building the best engineering company in the country. It was based on the belief that if we hired great people, fueled their passion while challenging them to excel, and maintained a laser focus on the needs of your clients, success would come- and so it has. Our portfolio of successful projects continues to grow, our family of highly satisfied clients continues to expand, and our staff just gets better and better.
We are a unique, Chicago-based firm whose collective passion, vision and expertise has led to phenomenal growth! With more than 500+ talented professionals and offices across the globe, Milhouse offers a dynamic work environment where there is no limit to what you can achieve if you are willing to go after it.
Our people are the cornerstone of our organization, and key to our success. Join a remarkably talented team that shares a passion for what they do and a vision for improving communities around the world through innovative engineering and construction. Click here to see who we are, and how our people drive our culture each & every day.
Click here to see all of our awards and how many times we've won Chicago's 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For!
Important Notice to US Applicants
Milhouse Engineering and Construction, Inc. is an at-will employer.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.