[UNION] Operating Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield•Chicago, IL

1d•$44 - $52

About The Position

The Operating Engineer is responsible for the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing equipment and systems at assigned properties. The role includes maintaining a clean and safe working environment, performing building rounds and routine assessments, carrying out preventive and corrective maintenance, and completing painting and housekeeping tasks. The engineer monitors and maintains building systems, responds to emergencies and customer concerns, documents work, and follows applicable codes, company directives, and safety practices. The position may involve working alone during certain shifts, extended work without relief during emergencies, shift work, on-call duties, and overtime assignments. The role operates in a professional office environment and uses standard office equipment. It also requires regular travel between properties in varying weather conditions and physical work that includes climbing, stooping, crouching, reaching, and frequently lifting equipment weighing at least 50 pounds. Eligible employees may enroll in benefit programs that generally include health, vision, and dental insurance; flexible spending and health savings accounts; retirement savings plans; life and disability insurance; and paid and unpaid time away from work. The stated compensation range is $43.81–$51.54; the posting does not specify the pay period.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
At least 5 years of related work experience operating mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting.
Appropriate trade license or permit where required, such as a Journeyman or Master Electrician license or applicable city licenses.
May need Universal Technician certification for CFCs, depending on market licensing requirements.
Valid driver’s license and good driving record, with periodic checks where applicable.
Basic computing skills in Outlook, Excel, and Word.
Experience operating, maintaining, and performing basic repairs on HVAC systems, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, and water systems.
Knowledge of energy management systems, techniques, and operations.
Thorough knowledge of building systems operations, maintenance, and repair.
Ability to work extended periods without relief during priority or emergency situations, and to perform shift work, on-call duties, or overtime assignments as required.
Ability to stoop, stand, climb, and frequently lift at least 50 pounds of equipment; safely install rigging and lifting devices; and crouch and reach to install or move equipment.
Ability to move between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work.
Ability to speak clearly and understand information presented orally and in writing.
Ability to read printed materials, drawings, and schematics.

Nice To Haves

Graduation from an apprentice program or trade school.
Trade licenses or certifications such as a Journeyman or Master Electrician license, Refrigeration Certificate of Fitness, High Pressure Boiler License, or High Pressure Steam Operator license, where applicable.

Responsibilities

Perform plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work for assigned buildings.
Maintain heating equipment, chillers, direct-expansion units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, VAV systems, and air distribution systems.
Monitor and adjust mechanical and pneumatic equipment, steam stations, control gauges, distributor panels, valves, thermostats, diffusers, and related equipment.
Verify field conditions and perform necessary repairs or adjustments.
Monitor energy management.
Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, floors, and other building components; complete general repairs, adjustments, and installations.
Repair plumbing fixtures, including water closets, urinals, flush valve assemblies, and lavatories.
Perform preventive maintenance according to company standards, building protocols, manufacturer recommendations, and industry practices, including filter changes, coil and condenser cleaning, tube punching, bearing greasing, belt inspection and adjustment, bearing replacement, pulley and shaft alignment, water-treatment monitoring, cooling-tower maintenance, and scheduled inspections.
Inspect engine rooms, fan rooms, cooling towers, motors, house pumps, electrical rooms, backup generators, fire pumps, sump pumps, and ejector pumps.
Replace lamps and light fixtures; reinstall or replace signage; and ensure rooms are clean and free of obstructions and debris.
Check emergency exit signs and lights and keep access to emergency stairs and exits clear.
Perform fire and life safety inspections in accordance with applicable NFPA and local requirements, company standards, building protocols, and direction from superiors and property management.
Document and report activities to a supervisor.
Respond promptly to emergencies, including fires, evacuations, equipment failures, and customer concerns.
Comply with applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency requirements, and company directives, and follow safe work practices.
Complete required annual company safety training.
Comply with the company uniform dress code and maintain a neat, clean appearance.