Chief Building Engineer

About the Role

The Chief Building Engineer leads the day-to-day maintenance and operation of the building, ensuring all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, life safety, and structural systems operate safely and efficiently. This role is ideal for a highly organized professional with exceptional communication, project management, and time management skills who can effectively prioritize multiple initiatives in a fast-paced environment.

The Chief Building Engineer oversees vendor and contractor performance, coordinates preventative maintenance and capital improvement projects, and collaborates closely with management to ensure work is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Success requires building strong relationships with residents, vendors, and team members while proactively identifying maintenance needs, recommending repairs and replacements, and delivering outstanding service that supports the operational goals of the community.

Responsibilities

• Regular attendance and punctuality.
• Maintain a safe and secure environment throughout the building(s).
• Supervise, train, and direct maintenance staff through work orders.
• Plan, monitor, and appraise job results; coach, counsel, and discipline employees.
• Assess repair needs and estimate time required for repair, including evaluating problems to determine if professional assistance or further instruction is needed.
• Monitor the functions of service contractors and building repair and maintenance contractors.
• Inventory and acquire maintenance supplies.
• Maintain disaster preparedness by identifying potential problems, developing response plans, and managing crises.
• On-call availability for emergencies and projects as assigned by Manager.
• Schedule and assign work responsibilities to employees to meet shift requirements.
• Request materials, tools, and supplies needed for jobs.
• Develop and maintain a resource management plan outlining short-term and long-term requirements for repair & maintenance, capital replacement, and capital needs.
• Maintain all fire protection and security systems, including required maintenance, inspections, and documentation.
• Inspect all emergency equipment to ensure compliance.
• Record and evaluate preventive maintenance activities and programs.
• Oversee the construction, installation, and preventative maintenance of equipment.
• Observe and evaluate corrective maintenance or repair on equipment.
• Orient and train employees to perform maintenance activities and tasks.
• Ensure a highly efficient safety program with emphasis on awareness, discipline, and compliance, conforming to OSHA standards and applicable building safety manuals.
• Perform performance evaluations for all maintenance staff.
• Supervise all administration relative to facility maintenance, including preparation of budgets, work schedules, goals and objectives, and purchase/requisition documents.
• Provide related management information products as requested.
• Record and report all unusual and irregular conditions to the Manager.
• Maintain a cordial, professional manner in dealing with residents, contractors, and management.
• Ensure all equipment, supplies, and materials are working neatly and orderly.
• All other duties as directed by the Board of Directors/Trustees or Management.

Supervisory Responsibility

On-site staff where applicable.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency preferred. Technical background from university or vocational sources a plus.
• HVAC or other training or certification may be required.
• Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in management of a maintenance department or facility.
• Knowledge of electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and carpentry trades.
• Must be able to operate tools and equipment related to facility maintenance.
• Knowledgeable in the use of Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Skills

• Excellent organizational and project management skills.
• Exceptional customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing staff is a plus.
• Ability to work under pressure, adjust to constant changes, handle multiple tasks, and coordinate the work of others.
• Ability to work on complex and confidential tasks utilizing judgment, tact, and resourcefulness.
• Skill in developing and maintaining good working relationships.

Pay

$62,000 - $65,000 annually.