Chief Operating Engineer, Facilities (FT), MFRE30115FOM

College of DuPage; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,953 - 123,387; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Tuition discounts

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement benefits

Job summary

The College of DuPage in Illinois is seeking a Chief Operating Engineer to oversee the operation, maintenance, and optimization of all building systems. You will supervise engineering staff, ensure safety and regulatory compliance, and manage preventive maintenance activities to support reliable campus operations.

Collaborate with Facilities leadership on renovations and master planning, while controlling budgets and maintaining compliance with all relevant codes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (MEP) or equivalent.
• City of Chicago Stationary Engineers License required; EPA Universal Refrigerant Technician certification.
• 5–7 years operating and maintaining power plant and building mechanical equipment; at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• COD Training: Bloodborne Pathogens; Hazardous Communications; Forklift/Scissor/Aerial Lift; Arc Flash certifications.

Responsibilities

• Oversees operation, maintenance, repair, and optimization of all building systems.
• Supervises engineering staff and ensures safety and regulatory compliance.
• Develops preventive maintenance programs and manages department budget.
• Coordinates renovations, upgrades, and project work with Facilities leadership.

Skills

Facilities management

Supervisory experience

Regulatory compliance

Preventive maintenance planning

Energy conservation

Building management systems

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (MEP-related)

City of Chicago Stationary Engineers License

EPA Universal Refrigerant Technician certification

Tools

Building Management Systems (BMS)

Job description

Overview

The College of DuPage is a comprehensive community college located near Chicago. We prepare students for a lifelong passion for learning on a 273‑acre campus with a variety of degrees and certificates. We are committed to student success and value an inclusive and welcoming environment. The College is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workforce.

Responsibilities

Under the direction of the Executive Director of Facilities, the Chief Operating Engineer oversees the operation, maintenance, repair, and optimization of all building systems and facilities. This position supervises engineering staff, ensures safety and regulatory compliance, manages preventive maintenance programs, and maintains reliable operation of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and life-safety systems.

• Directs the overall operation of physical plant equipment (boilers, chillers, ventilation, electrical generation, air conditioning, fire alarms, and related equipment) by coordinating maintenance and repair services; follows manufacturer’s instructions and established procedures; requests special services.
• Provides a safe, comfortable operating environment for students and staff while managing day-to-day physical plant operations cost‑effectively.
• Directs physical plant operations personnel by implementing and enforcing program, operational, and personnel policies and procedures.
• Ensures compliance with legal requirements by studying existing and future regulations and developing standard and emergency operating procedures for the department.
• Develops physical plant staff through selection, orientation, and training programs.
• Develops and evaluates staff performance through coaching, counseling, and documentation; plans, monitors, and appraises results.
• Collaborates with the Director of Facilities to develop operating procedures for plant operations by reviewing production, repairs, preventive maintenance, quality control, daily operations, maintenance reports, statistics, emergencies, and standards.
• Supervises and manages Assistant Chief Engineer, Operating Engineers, Maintenance Mechanics, and all engineering staff.
• Fosters positive employee attitudes and teamwork; oversees safety procedures.
• Provides technical support for the department on complex systems.
• Manages major system repairs and coordinates renovations, upgrades, and remodeling with Facilities Project Manager.
• Consults with design engineers and architects for new construction, remodeling, and master planning.
• Develops rapport with administration, faculty, and staff to resolve problems, organize projects, and support the Engineering Department.
• Manages department budget by forecasting requirements, preparing budget information, monitoring costs, analyzing variances, and initiating corrective actions.
• Manages service contracts for building equipment, automation systems, life-safety systems, and elevators.
• Writes specifications for equipment and supplies, including water treatment and filters.
• In collaboration with the Energy Manager/Senior Project Manager, develops energy conservation projects and strategies.
• Maintains continuity among college staff and external partners by documenting actions, irregularities, and ongoing needs.
• Contributes to Campus Services by sharing information, aligning objectives with other functions, and delivering related results as needed.
• Improves program and service quality by recommending new applications, updating procedures, and evaluating results with the Director of Facilities.
• Collaborates with the Director of Facilities Operations and/or Project Managers, engineers, and architects in the development, installation, and startup of new equipment and systems for new and existing buildings.
• Provides essential technical information regarding the college’s physical plant and equipment; ensures equipment is installed correctly and operates as designed.
• Works with the Risk Manager and Hazardous Materials Coordinator to resolve safety and environmental issues.
• Ensures operation of machinery and equipment by using the computerized maintenance system to complete preventive maintenance, manage inventory, and update procedures.
• Maintains certificates for equipment, including pressure vessels, elevators, fire extinguishers, fire systems, and other required certifications.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering in an MEP-related discipline, or equivalent education/experience required.
• Licenses/Certifications: City of Chicago Stationary Engineers License required; EPA Universal Refrigerant Technician certification required.
• Experience: 5–7 years’ experience operating and maintaining power plant and building mechanical equipment; at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• COD Training: Bloodborne Pathogens; Hazardous Communications; Forklift/Scissor/Aerial Lift; Arc Flash certifications.

Working Conditions

• Power plant, HVAC, automation, and life-safety equipment; electrical meters and related instrumentation; hand and power tools; ladders and man lifts; computers and software.
• Generally good conditions but may involve exposure to fire, steam leaks, gas leaks, electrical hazards, harsh weather, and extended emergency situations.
• Extensive walking, climbing on large equipment, ladders, and rooftops; lifting and moving heavy tools and equipment.
• Must pass a physical exam and background check; drug screen may be required at College expense.

Hiring Range

Salary starting at $112,170, based on education and experience; competitive starting pay dependent on qualifications. Benefits include paid time off, tuition discounts, medical, dental, vision, and retirement benefits.

College of DuPage is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, or other protected characteristics as required by law.