Union Operating Engineer

CBRE; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A global commercial real estate leader is seeking a Union Operating Engineer in Chicago, Illinois. The successful candidate will ensure the effective operation and maintenance of building mechanical systems, with responsibilities spanning plumbing, electrical, and HVAC tasks. The position demands 4-5 years of relevant experience and a strong foundation in safety and technical standards. At the heart of our organization lies a commitment to inclusivity and diversity, encouraging all qualified applicants to apply.

Qualifications

• 4-5 years of job-related experience required.
• Physical ability to lift/carry loads of 50 lbs or more.
• Active member or eligible to join Local 399.

Responsibilities

• Perform plumbing, electrical, or HVAC tasks as needed.
• Inspect and maintain various mechanical systems.
• Document and report daily activities to the supervisor.
• Respond to emergency situations efficiently.

Skills

Judgment analysis

Organizational skills

In-depth knowledge of Microsoft Office

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Journeyman or EPA Universal License

Job description

Union Operating Engineer

Job ID: 251116

Posted: 23-Dec-2025

Service line: Advisory Segment

Role type: Full-time

Areas of Interest: Engineering/Maintenance

Location(s): Chicago, Illinois, United States of America

About The Role

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.

This job is part of the Engineering and Technical Services job function. They provide support, preventive maintenance, and repairs on equipment and systems.

This position is a midnight shift.

What You’ll Do

• Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC requirements of the building.
• Maintain heating equipment, chillers, DX units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, etc.
• Verify field conditions and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments.
• Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, and floors and other general repairs, adjustments, and installations throughout the property.
• Perform repairs to plumbing fixtures.
• Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric rooms, back-up generator, fire pumps, sump pumps, and ejector pumps.
• Replace lamps, light fixtures, reinstall or replace signage.
• Document and report activities to supervisor.
• Respond immediately to emergency situations.
• Complete all required Safety Training as scheduled and answer customer inquiries in a timely fashion.
• Apply in-depth knowledge of standard principles and techniques/procedures to accomplish complex assignments and provide innovative solutions.
• Coach others and share in-depth knowledge of own job discipline and broad knowledge of several job disciplines within the function.
• Lead by example and model behaviors that are consistent with CBRE RISE values.
• Impact a range of customer, operational, project or service activities within own team and other related teams.
• Work within broad guidelines and policies.
• Explain difficult or sensitive information.

What You’ll Need

• High School Diploma, GED, or trade school diploma with 4-5 years of job-related experience. In lieu of a diploma, a combination of experience and education will be considered. Prior shift manager or supervisory experience preferred. Journeyman or EPA Universal License required.
• 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.
• Ability to exercise judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information.
• Willingness to take a new perspective on existing solutions.
• In-depth knowledge of Microsoft Office products.
• Organizational skills with an advanced inquisitive mindset.
• Certifications/licenses as may be required by local or state jurisdictions: Must be an active member or eligible to join Local 399 and acquire a City of Chicago Stationary Engineers License.

Why CBRE

When you join CBRE, you become part of the global leader in commercial real estate services and investment that helps businesses and people thrive. We are dynamic problem solvers and forward-thinking professionals who create significant impact. Our collaborative culture is built on our shared values — respect, integrity, service and excellence — and we value the diverse perspectives, backgrounds and skillsets of our people. At CBRE, you have the opportunity to chart your own course and realize your potential. We welcome all applicants.

Our Values in Hiring

At CBRE, we are committed to fostering a culture where everyone feels they belong. We value diverse perspectives and experiences, and we welcome all applications.

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 [e-mail] or via telephone at [phone] (U.S.) and [phone] (Canadap>