Building Engineer

About the role

The Bronx Zoo consists of 265 acres with over one hundred Buildings, many of which have HVAC, Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing Systems that require inspection, maintenance and repair. The Building Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and safety of building heating and cooling systems across the Bronx Zoo campus.

Principal Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain Building heating and cooling systems, including chillers, pumps, HVAC, and compressors to ensure safe and reliable facility operations.
• Conduct daily rounds of equipment and maintain equipment logs. Evaluate data to confirm proper operations. Maintain documentation as required by WCS, City, State and Federal policies.
• Conduct scheduled preventive maintenance and repair tasks for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems across all Buildings.
• Monitor and Utilize Building Management Systems (BMS) to monitor, analyze, troubleshoot and control facility infrastructure.
• Respond promptly and effectively to HVAC and utility issues to maintain a safe, comfortable, and climate-controlled environment for the animal collection, staff, and visitors.
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve mechanical and electrical issues independently or with limited supervision. Includes overhauling and rebuilding pumps of various sizes.
• Support construction, renovation, and repairs by overseeing work performed by vendors and coordinating contractor access to all spaces to ensure repairs and maintenance are properly addressed.
• Aid in emergency responses, including fire alarms and critical system failures, in coordination with the Cogeneration, Operations, Security and Animal departments.
• Promote and maintain clean, organized, and safe work environments in all Operations mechanical spaces.
• Maintain the Society’s standards for quality and professionalism and enhanced guest experience throughout the Park, its facilities, buildings and exhibits.

Qualifications

• Seeking an experienced, motivated Building Engineer to contribute to the WCS mission and department goals in maintaining reliable operations.
• Must be flexible and have the ability to prioritize jobs and work assignments in a dynamic environment.
• Work effectively with other departments in carrying out the principal functions of the Operations Department.
• Must have demonstrated knowledge and proven experience with HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, with ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience in plant operations and facilities maintenance.
• Must possess a Valid NYC Refrigeration System Operating Engineer Certificate of Qualification (Q-01).
• Must possess or obtain required FDNY certifications including: A-35 and G-60.
• Commitment to safety, integrity, and customer service.
• Must be computer literate, especially Microsoft Office.
• Physical Demands: Must be available to respond to emergency situations and weekends.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Must be able to work in varied environments, including all weather conditions as the position is considered essential.
• This is an in-the-field position and the Building Engineer will spend 80% of their day out of the office, on zoo grounds, inspecting equipment conditions, conducting repairs and maintenance.
• The physical demands include but are not limited to the use of a Keyboard, 10-key, Mouse, and Telephone Use, Handwriting, Sitting, Standing, Crouching, Kneeling, Bending, Walking, Stair Climbing, minimal Driving, and Lifting up to 50lbs.

Workplace Conditions and Environment

• The workplace conditions and environment of the role include working indoors, closely with others, and/or alone, exposure to excess noise, operating power tools and equipment, and use sharp tools and equipment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate for employment based on gender, race/ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, caste, genetic information or any other covered status or characteristic protected by laws and regulations/and similar categories.