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Union Operator Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

CBRE

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer you'll be the hands-on expert ensuring commercial kitchen spaces stay comfortable and compliant. From installing and calibrating complex control systems to fixing ...

F.H. Paschen

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL

$71K - $96K/yr

Paschen is regularly looking for Union Laborers. Operating Engineers use different types of heavy equipment at construction sites. Please note that F.H. Paschen is signatory to a collective ...

CBRE

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

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.

CBRE

Union Operating Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

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.

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Union Operator information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$10

$19

$28

How much do union operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for union operator in Elgin, IL is $19.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.63 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Union Operators face on the job site, and how can they prepare for them?

Union Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing project demands, working in various weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple trades on busy job sites. To prepare, it's important to stay up-to-date with safety protocols, maintain strong communication with supervisors and team members, and continually refresh equipment operation skills through union training programs. Being adaptable and proactive in addressing potential issues can help Union Operators excel and contribute effectively to their team.

What are Union Operators?

Union Operators are skilled workers who operate heavy machinery and equipment, such as cranes, bulldozers, or forklifts, typically as members of a labor union. They are responsible for the safe and efficient operation of this equipment on construction sites, in warehouses, or in industrial settings. Being part of a union means that these operators have specific protections, benefits, and negotiated wages. Union Operators often must complete specialized training and certification to ensure they meet safety standards and operational requirements.

What is the difference between Union Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectUnion OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, union certificationHigh school diploma, technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUnionized construction and industrial companiesManufacturing and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Union Operator and Machine Operator roles share similarities in industrial settings, requiring safety training and technical skills. However, Union Operators are typically part of unionized construction or industrial teams, focusing on heavy equipment and site operations, while Machine Operators work mainly in manufacturing environments operating specific machinery. Both roles are essential in their industries and often compared by job seekers seeking similar industrial or manufacturing careers.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Union operators typically do not earn $10,000 a month without specialized skills and experience; however, some high-paying trades like commercial pilots, offshore oil rig workers, or certain sales roles can reach that level without a college degree. These jobs often require certifications, technical training, or extensive on-the-job experience. Earning such income usually involves working long hours, high responsibility, or in hazardous environments.

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

To thrive as a Union Operator, you need a strong background in operating heavy machinery, understanding safety protocols, and relevant union apprenticeship training or certification. Familiarity with equipment such as cranes, bulldozers, and excavators, as well as knowledge of OSHA regulations and computerized control systems, is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for coordinating with crew members and maintaining a safe work environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure efficient, safe operations and compliance with industry standards on construction or industrial sites.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Some high-paying union jobs, such as specialized construction or industrial union operators, can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with overtime, experience, and certifications. These roles often require extensive training, skills in operating heavy machinery, and union membership, with pay rates varying by industry and location.

How does operator union work?

A union for operators is an organized group that represents workers in negotiations with employers over wages, benefits, and working conditions. Union members typically pay dues and may participate in collective bargaining, strikes, or other activities to improve their employment terms. Certification and adherence to labor laws are essential for union operations.

What union job pays the most?

Union jobs in the construction, electrical, and transportation sectors tend to offer the highest wages, especially for skilled roles like electricians, crane operators, and heavy equipment operators. These positions often require specialized certifications and experience, and wages can vary based on location and union agreements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Elgin, IL? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Union Operator jobs in Elgin, IL? For Union Operator jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Union Operator jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Union Operator jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Union Operator jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Union Operator job openings:
Union Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Operator job openings in Elgin, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,258 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Union Operating Engineer

Union Operating Engineer

CBRE

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

CBRE rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 331 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 428 rated business services

Job description

CBRE Global Workplace Solutions (GWS) works with clients to make real estate a significant contributor to organizational productivity and performance. Our account management model is at the heart of our client-centric approach to delivering integrated real estate solutions. Each client is entrusted with a dedicated leader and is supported by regional and global resources, demonstrating the industry's most robust platform. CBRE GWS delivers consistent, measurably superior outcomes for our clients at every stage of the lifecycle, and across industries and geographies.
About the Role:
Keep the Air Flowing, Keep the Systems Running. As a CBRE Union Operating Engineer you'll be the hands-on expert ensuring commercial kitchen spaces stay comfortable and compliant. From installing and calibrating complex control systems to fixing and maintaining critical equipment, your technical skills will make a real impact. Lead with precision and safety while modeling CBRE's RISE values and keeping operations running smoothly.
What You'll Do:
  • Install, repair, adjust, service, and maintain electric or pneumatic control systems used for commercial kitchen heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems and equipment. This includes the calibration of related instruments, gauges, and control components.

  • Inspect and conduct ongoing maintenance on building HVAC equipment to ensure proper operation of equipment.

  • Ensure compliance with all applicable codes, regulations, and work safety.

  • Solve equipment failures and identify the best course of action for equipment modifications.

  • Apply general knowledge of standard principles and techniques/procedures to accomplish tasks and solve routine problems.

  • Have a broad knowledge of own job subject area and some knowledge of several job fields within the function.

  • Lead by example and model behaviors that are consistent with CBRE RISE values. May convince to reach an agreement.

  • Impact the quality of own work and the work of others on the team.

  • Work primarily within standardized procedures and practices to achieve objectives and meet deadlines.

  • Explain complex information to others in straightforward situations.
  • *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.

What You'll Need:
  • High School Diploma, GED, or trade school diploma or equivalent experience with 3-4 years of job-related experience.
  • City of Chicago Engineering License.
  • This work will work in a commercial kitchen. The successful candidate, should have relevant experience, repairing and maintaining commercial kitchen equipment including walk in coolers, freezers, over head exhaust, ovens, warmers, etc.

  • 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.

  • Understanding of existing procedures and standards to solve slightly complex problems.

  • Ability to analyze possible solutions using technical experience to apply appropriate judgment and precedents.

  • In-depth knowledge of Microsoft Office products. Examples include Word, Excel, and Outlook.

  • Strong organizational skills with an inquisitive approach.

Why CBRE
We are guided by the needs of the cities we inhabit, the communities we build and the world we thrive in!
  • Benefits start 1st of the month: Medical, dental, vision, 401k, paid time off, holiday pay, and much more!

  • Internal advancement available after 6-month mark

  • Work/Life Balance: 40-45 hours a week

  • Competitive Pay

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.
Other Common Titles: HVAC Service Technician, Commercial Service Technician, Heating and Air Conditioning Technician, Heating and Cooling Technician, Service Technician, Refrigeration Technician, HVAC Mechanic, HVAC Apprentice, Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, HVAC Specialist
CBRE is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. We have a long-standing commitment to providing equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, veteran status, political belief, or any other basis protected by applicable law. We also provide reasonable accommodations, as needed, throughout the job application process. If you have a disability that inhibits your ability to apply for a position through our online application process, you may contact us via email at recruitingaccommodations@cbre.com or via telephone at +1 866 225 3099 (U.S.) and +1 866 388 4346 (Canada).
The pay range for this position is subject to an applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement. The negotiated rate for the Union Operating Engineer position is $103,376 annually. Please refer to the Collective Bargaining Agreement regarding pay scale. This role will provide the following benefits: 401(K), Dental insurance, Health insurance, Life insurance, and Vision insurance.
Equal Employment Opportunity: CBRE has a long-standing commitment to providing equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, veteran status, political belief, or any other basis protected by applicable law.
Candidate Accommodations: CBRE values the differences of all current and prospective employees and recognizes how every employee contributes to our company's success. CBRE provides reasonable accommodations in job application procedures for individuals with disabilities. If you require assistance due to a disability in the application or recruitment process, please submit a request via email at recruitingaccommodations@cbre.com or via telephone at +1 866 225 3099 (U.S.) and +1 866 388 4346 (Canada).

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About CBRE

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The real estate industry is undergoing significant and exciting change, increasingly driven by data and technology. At CBRE, the world's premier commercial real estate services company, we empower teams to take ownership over that technology and shape it, offering both nimble, research-driven product design and the resources of a Fortune 500 business. We approach culture with intention, valuing camaraderie, collaboration, inclusivity and a healthy work/life balance. The user experience team is passionate about the quality, usability, and simplicity of the experiences we create. Individuals in these roles gather these key user insights, and then use them to inspire and inform product strategy and design solutions. We partner closely with each other, engineering, and product management to create innovative, usable, great-looking products.

Industry

Real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Dallas, TX, US

Year founded

1906

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