Lead Engineer

Distinctive Schools of IL; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25+ paid holidays & 15 days PTO

12 weeks family paid leave

Comprehensive Healthcare

403b match

Professional development

Gym and wellness discounts

Job summary

Distinctive Schools of IL is seeking a Lead Engineer to maintain and repair building systems at the Chicago site. You will oversee preventive maintenance, vendor liaison, and cleaning activities while ensuring safety and aesthetics of the campus.

The ideal candidate holds 3–5 years in maintenance, an HVAC license, and strong knowledge of building codes. The role reports to the Director of Operations and offers a starting salary with benefits including healthcare and retirement match.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required.
• 3–5 years of maintenance or custodial experience.
• HVAC license required.
• Strong knowledge of building codes and regulations.
• Ability to work independently and in teams.
• Proficient with basic computer/web-based programs.

Responsibilities

• Perform preventive maintenance on all building systems.
• Respond to and resolve maintenance requests promptly.
• Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems.
• Inspect and maintain building infrastructure and safety standards.
• Oversee supply orders and liaise with vendors.
• Lead cleaning and custodial activities as needed.
• Support campus operations and coordinate with staff.

Skills

Maintenance experience

HVAC License

Building codes knowledge

Physical ability

Teamwork & independence

Computer skills

Education

High School Diploma

Job description

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Position Title: Lead Engineer
F.T.E: 1.0
Location: CICS Longwood- 1309 W 95th St, Chicago, IL 60643
Reports To: Director of Operations
Salary: Starting at $50,000, commensurate with experience
Start Date: August 2026

The Mission of Distinctive Schools, an educational practice leader committed to social justice and the elevation of access and achievement in historically marginalized communities, is to support each child in becoming an engaged and curious learner, a confident self-advocate, and a creative problem-solver by setting high expectations and nurturing a positive culture that honors diversity, collaboration, and optimism.

Position Description:

The Lead Engineer is responsible for the maintenance and repair of all building systems, including mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection. This position leads activities which assure the exterior and interior environment is safe, secure, and aesthetically attractive. The Lead Engineer will oversee supply orders and act as a liaison between vendors. In addition to performing cleaning duties, as needed and directed.

Maintenance

• Perform preventive maintenance on all building systems
• Respond to and resolve maintenance requests in a timely manner
• Troubleshoot and repair complex mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems
• Inspect and maintain building infrastructure
• Comply with all building codes and regulations
• Prepare reports and documentation
• Act as liaison between vendor, campus and network staff
• Manage supply organization and procurement
• Ensures utility efficiency
• Partner with Campus Operations Manager regarding any larger facility project needs or concerns
• Organize and coordinator working crews if applicable
• Apply established safety standards
• Lead maintenance projects

Campus Preservation/Cleaning

• Keep building and premises clean, safe and neat at all times
• Clean, dust mop, scrub and wax resilient floors with use of appropriate equipment as needed to protect floor finish
• Clean cafeteria of any spills and/or debris, and properly disposes of refuse
• Routinely break-down cafeteria tables/benches for cleaning in between table/bench tops, sides, legs and underside of each
• Clean and vacuum carpeted surfaces
• Spot clean and scrub walls
• Empty wastebaskets and properly disposes of refuse
• Clean, scrub and disinfect bath and shower room areas, including walls, sinks, bowls and glass mirrors. Stock toilet paper and towel dispensers
• Change light bulbs
• Clean whiteboards, blackboards, and erasers
• Clean and disinfect water fountains
• Clean and disinfect chairs and desktops in classrooms and office
• Repair small projects around the building utilizing hand tools

Requirements

Education

• High School Diploma

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience as maintenance or custodial staff
• HVAC License
• Must possess physical ability to perform all required work
• Strong understanding of building codes and regulations, as well as experience in troubleshooting and repairing complex systems
• Maintain a professional relationship with supervisors, staff, families, students and the public
• Work independently and in teams to complete job duties and assignments in a timely manner with limited supervision
• Technology demands:Comfortable with a computer and web-based programs

Physical demands

Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; some stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and fine finger dexterity. Generally, the job requires 30% walking and 70% standing.

Why Join the Distinctive Schools Team:

• ???25+ Paid holidays & 15 days PTO
• 12 weeks family paid leave
• Comprehensive Healthcare (Medical, Dental, Vision)
• 403b match
  • Fully match up to 3%
  • 50% match up to 5%
• Professional development including tuition reimbursement
• Gym and wellness discounts
• And more

Since no job description can detail all the duties and responsibilities that may be required from time to time in the performance of a job, duties and responsibilities that may be inherent in a job, reasonably required for its performance, or required due to the changing nature of the job shall also be considered part of the jobholder's responsibility.

Distinctive Schools is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other personal characteristic protected by applicable law. Distinctive Schools is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, Distinctive Schools will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact [e-mail] or call 773.828.4191