Chief Building Engineer

HOATalent•Arlington, VA

About The Position

The Chief Building Engineer is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day performance, upkeep, and repair of building systems within a residential property. Reporting to onsite management, this role ensures that all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and life-safety systems function efficiently to support a safe and comfortable environment for occupants. The ideal candidate brings a hands-on approach to maintenance, with strong technical expertise and a proactive problem-solving mindset.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training or certifications preferred.
Extensive experience in building maintenance within residential, commercial, or mixed-use properties, including leadership responsibilities.
Strong working knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
Ability to interpret technical drawings, manuals, and system documentation preferred.
Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and handling multiple priorities.
Availability for on-call responsibilities and emergency response as needed.
Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and hands-on repairs.
Willingness to work in varied environments such as rooftops, confined spaces, and mechanical rooms.
Technical proficiency and attention to detail
Commitment to safety and compliance
Strong customer service mindset
Reliability and accountability
Initiative and continuous improvement

Nice To Haves

Relevant certifications (e.g., engineering or maintenance credentials) are a plus.

Responsibilities

Inspect, monitor, and maintain building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and life-safety equipment.
Respond quickly to equipment issues, service requests, and emergency situations.
Perform and oversee general maintenance work such as painting, drywall repair, and surface restoration to maintain property standards.
Conduct routine property walkthroughs to assess work quality and identify maintenance needs.
Assist in managing maintenance-related expenses by sourcing bids, evaluating vendors, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
Implement and maintain preventive maintenance programs for building equipment and infrastructure.
Keep detailed records of maintenance activity, inspections, and system performance.
Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reliability, and safety.
Provide regular updates on building conditions, maintenance priorities, and upcoming work.
Document inspections and work progress within internal tracking systems.
Troubleshoot and repair building systems and infrastructure as needed.
Coordinate with external vendors for specialized services or large-scale projects.
Oversee contractor performance to ensure work meets quality and compliance standards.
Maintain records of service activity, repairs, and equipment history.
Ensure adherence to applicable safety regulations, building codes, and compliance standards.
Maintain proper documentation and handling procedures for hazardous materials.
Coordinate required inspections and testing for key systems such as elevators and backup power equipment.
Address maintenance-related concerns from residents and staff in a professional manner.
Communicate clearly regarding timelines, service disruptions, and ongoing work.
Provide guidance and oversight to maintenance team members, supporting performance and development.