Chief Engineer

MalaceHR is seeking an experienced Chief Engineer to oversee building operations and lead the engineering and maintenance team at a Class A commercial office building in downtown New Orleans, LA.

This is a hands-on leadership opportunity for someone with a strong background in commercial building systems, facilities maintenance, and team management. The Chief Engineer will be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the property's mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other critical building systems.

The ideal candidate will have experience managing maintenance personnel, coordinating vendors, and working closely with property management to maintain a high standard of building operations and tenant satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Building Operations & Maintenance

• Oversee the daily operation, maintenance, and repair of all commercial building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and life safety systems.

• Develop, implement, and maintain preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance programs.

• Troubleshoot building system issues and provide technical guidance to the engineering team.

• Ensure building equipment operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable codes and regulations.

• Respond to building emergencies, equipment failures, and service requests as needed.

• Identify opportunities to improve equipment reliability, operational efficiency, and overall building performance.

Team Leadership & Supervision

• Lead, supervise, and support a team of building engineers and maintenance technicians.

• Assist with hiring, onboarding, training, performance evaluations, and employee development.

• Assign daily work orders, establish priorities, and monitor team performance.

• Promote a positive, collaborative work environment focused on safety, accountability, and customer service.

• Conduct ongoing technical and safety training to ensure proper maintenance practices.

Vendor, Budget & Property Management

• Coordinate and oversee outside contractors and service vendors performing maintenance and repairs.

• Monitor vendor performance, project completion, and quality of work.

• Develop and manage the engineering department's operating budget.

• Assist property management with capital improvement planning, equipment replacements, and facility upgrades.

• Maintain accurate maintenance records, inspection reports, and equipment documentation.

• Communicate regularly with property management, tenants, and other stakeholders regarding building operations and maintenance activities.

Required Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in commercial building engineering, facilities maintenance, or a related field.

• Previous experience as a Chief Engineer, Assistant Chief Engineer, Lead Building Engineer, or similar position preferred.

• Demonstrated leadership experience managing or supervising maintenance or engineering personnel.

• Strong working knowledge of commercial building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical equipment, and building automation systems.

• Experience developing and managing preventive maintenance programs.

• Ability to troubleshoot equipment issues and coordinate repairs.

• Experience working with outside contractors and service vendors.

• Strong communication, organizational, and customer service skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams.

• Valid driver's license.

• EPA Section 608 Universal Certification required within the first 90 days of employment.

• New Orleans Stationary Engineer License required within the first 90 days of employment.

• Candidates who do not currently hold these credentials must be willing and able to obtain both within 90 days of their start date.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current EPA Section 608 Universal Certification and New Orleans Stationary Engineer License.

• Previous experience overseeing engineering operations within a Class A commercial office building.

• Experience with building automation systems (BAS) and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

• Experience managing maintenance budgets and supporting capital improvement projects.

• Trade school education, apprenticeship, union training, military technical training, or a related college degree.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

• Comfortable working on ladders up to 30 feet tall.

• Ability to perform physical activities associated with commercial building maintenance, including climbing, bending, kneeling, and lifting.

• Ability to respond to equipment issues and building emergencies as needed.