Chief Building Engineer

Avanath • Washington DC, WA

3d

About The Position

The Chief Building Engineer manages, oversees, and facilitates all maintenance activities for the community, from capital improvement projects to preventive maintenance and repairs of building systems, while protecting and maximizing property value. The role requires professionalism, strong customer service, and positive engagement with residents, staff, vendors, and community partners.

The Chief Building Engineer oversees the safe and proper operation and maintenance of mechanical, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, heating, fire-alarm, and security systems. The position coordinates maintenance staff and contractors, manages work orders and projects, maintains equipment and inspection records, and communicates regularly with management. The engineer also responds to urgent conditions and is reachable after hours for emergencies affecting life or property.

The position works within the community, including resident units when needed for life and safety matters, as well as in a normal office environment. Personal protective equipment is required due to potential exposure risks. The incumbent is classified as essential staff and is expected to follow applicable safety and business protocols.

Requirements

• At least 5–7 years of experience in residential property maintenance.
• A plumbing license is required.
• CFC Universal certification is required.
• A low- and high-pressure boiler license is required.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of engineering and building systems.
• Experience with Building Maintenance Systems (BMS).
• Valid driver’s license.
• Proven history of managing expenses effectively.
• Excellent attendance.

Nice To Haves

• Three years of supervisory experience within the last five years.
• Third Class Boiler Operator License.
• Third Engineer License.
• Formal vocational or technical training in maintenance, mechanical, or electrical work.

Responsibilities

• Provide respectful, responsive customer service to residents and team members; address questions and maintenance complaints, assign work orders efficiently, and follow through on resident matters.
• Help maintain a favorable image of the community and enforce community policies delegated by the Community Manager.
• Complete resident-requested work orders and routine upkeep by diagnosing problems and making repairs in accordance with policies, procedures, safety standards, and code requirements.
• Operate and maintain mechanical, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems, as well as low-pressure steam-heating, fire-alarm, and security systems.
• Maintain engineering logbooks and inspection reports for low-pressure steam-heating and water-treatment systems; perform daily boiler blow-downs and inspections as required by DCRA.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs for building systems.
• Oversee maintenance staff work orders, repairs, and unit turns through Yardi Voyager, including basic IT repairs.
• Schedule maintenance personnel for regular shifts, on-call coverage, snow and ice control, special events, and emergencies.
• Act as the main contact for outside contractors completing maintenance repairs, small projects, and capital projects.
• Ensure safety precautions and procedures are followed and maintain current records of the condition of building and grounds assets and systems.
• Consult with management on repairs and projects, report ongoing projects monthly, and maintain communication about issues affecting the building.
• Order and maintain necessary maintenance supplies, tools, equipment, and staff PPE.
• Conduct annual maintenance staff reviews in conjunction with the General Manager.
• Ensure bulk trash is disposed of safely and mechanical and electrical equipment spaces are kept clean.
• Remain reachable by cell phone after hours for emergencies threatening life or property and common-area issues, including during evenings, weekends, holidays, and other non-scheduled workdays.
• Respond to emergencies such as sewer backups and water flooding.
• Review available technical information to understand the design and operation of community equipment.
• Immediately report equipment malfunctions, injuries, accidents, and other safety issues; participate in safety meetings, complete required safety training, and report incidents promptly and accurately.
• Monitor compliance with regulatory requirements, organizational standards, and operational processes, and report violations or infractions.
• Conduct business in accordance with company policies, Fair Housing, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other applicable laws.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision benefits.
• 401(k).
• Personal time off.
• Paid holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development through online training platforms, classes, and one-on-one coaching.
• Growth and advancement opportunities, with an emphasis on promoting from within.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED