Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Chief Engineer to oversee all building operations, maintenance programs, and engineering functions for a commercial property or portfolio. This role serves as a key member of the property management leadership team, ensuring operational excellence, regulatory compliance, tenant satisfaction, and the efficient performance of all building systems.

The Chief Engineer will lead engineering and maintenance staff, manage vendor relationships, oversee capital improvement projects, and partner closely with property management to maintain the property's value, appearance, and overall performance.

Key Responsibilities

Building Operations & Maintenance

• Direct and oversee the operation, maintenance, repair, and preventative maintenance of all building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and life safety systems.
• Ensure building equipment and systems operate efficiently, safely, and reliably.
• Conduct routine property inspections to evaluate building conditions, equipment performance, and overall property appearance.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all engineering and maintenance-related matters.

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, train, and develop engineering and maintenance personnel.
• Establish departmental goals and drive operational excellence.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Partner with property management to ensure a high level of tenant satisfaction and customer service.

Vendor & Contractor Management

• Manage third-party vendors and contractors, including HVAC, electrical, janitorial, landscaping, parking, and specialty service providers.
• Oversee vendor performance, contract compliance, and service quality.
• Coordinate contractor activities and ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, and within budget.
• Solicit and evaluate bids to ensure competitive pricing and quality service.

Financial & Capital Planning

• Assist in preparing annual operating budgets and capital expenditure plans.
• Monitor expenses and identify opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies.
• Recommend and manage capital improvement projects from planning through completion.
• Review budget variances and provide operational recommendations.

Compliance, Safety & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA requirements and building safety standards.
• Develop and maintain emergency response, life safety, and environmental programs.
• Coordinate required safety training and certifications for staff and contractors.
• Maintain documentation and records related to inspections, maintenance activities, and compliance requirements.

Tenant & Client Relations

• Build and maintain positive relationships with tenants, clients, and building occupants.
• Respond promptly and professionally to service requests and operational concerns.
• Support leasing activities, including property tours, tenant improvement projects, and space planning reviews.
• Communicate operational updates, major projects, and building-related issues to management.

Energy & Sustainability Management

• Monitor energy usage and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.
• Evaluate building systems and technologies to improve operational performance.
• Support sustainability initiatives and best practices related to energy management and resource conservation.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of commercial building engineering experience, including supervisory or leadership responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, life safety, and building automation systems.
• Experience managing vendors, contractors, preventative maintenance programs, and capital projects.
• Working knowledge of building codes, OSHA regulations, and safety standards.
• Strong budgeting, project management, and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and customer service abilities.
• Ability to respond to after-hours emergencies and support planned maintenance activities as needed.

Core Competencies

• Leadership and team development
• Project and vendor management
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Budgeting and cost control
• Customer service excellence
• Organization and time management
• Effective communication and relationship building
• Operational and maintenance expertise

Work Environment

This position may oversee one or multiple commercial properties and requires regular property inspections, interaction with tenants and vendors, and availability for emergency response outside of normal business hours when necessary.