Stationary Engineer

Stationary EngineerThe Stationary Engineer is responsible for the efficient operation, inspection, maintenance, and repair of mechanical and electrical systems and equipment throughout the facility. Working under the direction of the Chief Engineer and following established standards and procedures, this role ensures that building systems operate safely and reliably to support visitors, staff, and the preservation of collections.ResponsibilitiesComplete daily maintenance tasks, including responding to work requests, identifying and reporting maintenance problems or physical hazards, monitoring building mechanical systems, and inspecting and repairing plumbing systems.Maintain central plant operations, including the safe and efficient operation of boilers, chillers, compressors, generators, and cooling towers.Monitor, analyze, and adjust building automation systems to maintain proper environmental conditions for objects, visitors, and staff.Perform scheduled and assigned preventive maintenance tasks on mechanical, electrical, HVAC, refrigeration, and facilities equipment.Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, valves, plant equipment, and related building systems.Record maintenance and repair information accurately in accordance with guidelines established by management.Respond promptly to building emergencies, including leaks, fire-related system issues, and elevator problems, ensuring safety and minimal disruption.Ensure all equipment and work areas remain safe, clean, neat, and orderly at all times, with strong emphasis on safety and accident prevention.Maintain positive working relationships with staff, responding to requests and issues in a timely, professional, and courteous manner.Access computer programs and use or learn basic computer operations required for work orders, building automation systems, and reporting.Supervise and train the Assistant Engineer, providing guidance on procedures, safety, and best practices.Follow directions from management with consistent follow-through and demonstrate teamwork in interactions with co-workers.Perform other related duties as assigned to support the overall operation and maintenance of the facility.Essential SkillsValid City of Chicago Stationary Engineer license.Minimum of 2 years of experience as a stationary engineer or in a closely related facilities maintenance role.Hands-on experience with boiler operation and maintenance in a central plant environment.Proficiency in HVAC systems, including troubleshooting, repair, and preventive maintenance.Experience working with chillers, cooling towers, compressors, generators, and other plant equipment.Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to diagnose and repair mechanical systems and components.Working knowledge of electrical systems and equipment related to building and plant operations.Plumbing maintenance and repair skills, including inspection and correction of system issues.Ability to monitor, analyze, and adjust building automation systems to maintain precise environmental conditions.Experience with facilities maintenance, including installation, repair, and upkeep of building systems.Ability to accurately document maintenance and repair activities in compliance with management guidelines.Excellent customer-service orientation when responding to requests from staff and stakeholders.Demonstrated ability to follow directions from management and complete tasks with thorough follow-through.Proven teamwork skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with co-workers.Ability to frequently stand, walk, lift, kneel, and crouch to perform maintenance tasks safely.Basic computer literacy and the ability to learn and use computer programs related to work orders and building systems.Additional Skills & QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent.Experience with refrigeration systems and their maintenance and repair.Knowledge of valves, low-pressure systems, and plant equipment operation.Experience in facilities operations within complex or specialized environments.EPA Universal certification or familiarity with refrigerant handling and regulations.Experience with installation of mechanical, electrical, or plumbing components in a facilities setting.Ability to train and mentor junior engineering staff, such as Assistant Engineers.Strong communication skills to interact clearly and professionally with staff across the organization.Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining safe, orderly, and compliant work areas.Why Work Here?Employees benefit from comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, vision, and optional pet insurance, along with life and disability benefits and a 403(b) savings plan to support long-term financial security. The organization promotes work-life balance through generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays, ensuring time to rest and connect with loved ones. Team members also enjoy exclusive perks such as employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions, creating a rewarding and enriching workplace experience.Work EnvironmentThe work environment combines heavy industrial plant operations with the specialized demands of maintaining precise climate controls. The Stationary Engineer works with boilers, chillers, cooling towers, compressors, generators, valves, and other plant equipment, as well as building automation systems that regulate temperature, humidity, and air quality throughout the facility. The role involves frequent standing, walking, lifting, kneeling, and crouching, and requires adherence to strict safety practices in mechanical and electrical spaces. Work is primarily performed in mechanical rooms, central plant areas, and throughout the buildings public and non-public spaces, balancing hands-on equipment operation with monitoring and adjustments via computer-based control systems.Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Chicago, IL.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $68640.00 - $76960.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance. Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future. Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones. Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Chicago, IL.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 25, 2026.