Chief Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Location: Downtown New Orleans
Schedule: Monday-Friday; on-call and after-hours support as needed

Job Summary

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the overall management, performance, and reliability of all building systems within a commercial office property. Unlike a Stationary Engineer role, this position provides leadership, direction, and oversight of engineering operations, staff, vendors, and long-term maintenance planning. The Chief Engineer ensures systems are not only operational, but optimized, compliant, and aligned with property goals and budgets.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all engineering and maintenance personnel, including scheduling, training, and performance management
• Oversee the operation and efficiency of HVAC, chiller systems, electrical, and plumbing infrastructure
• Develop, implement, and enforce preventive and predictive maintenance programs
• Serve as the primary decision-maker for complex repairs, system failures, and emergency response
• Manage and approve work performed by third-party vendors and contractors
• Prepare and manage operating budgets , including forecasting and capital expenditures
• Identify and recommend equipment upgrades, replacements, and energy efficiency improvements
• Ensure full compliance with OSHA, local codes, and safety standards
• Maintain high-level oversight of logs, reporting, and regulatory documentation
• Act as the main point of contact for property management regarding all engineering matters
• Establish and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the engineering team

Qualifications

• Must have Valid Stationary Engineer license
• 5+ years of commercial building engineering experience, including leadership/supervisory responsibility
• Advanced knowledge of central plant operations, including large-scale chiller systems
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams, vendors, and budgets
• Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to oversee - not just perform - repairs
• Experience with building automation systems (BAS) and energy management preferred

Key Differences from Stationary Engineer Role

• Leadership vs. Execution: Chief Engineer directs the team; Stationary Engineer performs assigned maintenance and repairs
• Accountability: Chief Engineer is responsible for overall building performance and compliance , not just individual tasks
• Decision-Making Authority: Chief Engineer makes final calls on repairs, vendors, and capital improvements
• Strategic Focus: Chief Engineer handles budgeting, planning, and system optimization ; Stationary Engineer focuses on day-to-day operations
• Supervision: Chief Engineer manages staff; Stationary Engineer typically works independently or under supervision
• Vendor & Client Interaction: Chief Engineer interfaces regularly with ownership/management and contractors

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Health insurance
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Company-provided phone