Chief Building Engineer

Lincoln Property Company•Chicago, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Chief Engineer leads the Engineering team and oversees building maintenance, repair, and operations to promote tenant satisfaction, safety, and building efficiency. This is an International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 399 position. The role manages building systems and staff, budgets, inventory, contractors, and tenant improvement projects, while coordinating with tenants, vendors, contractors, and property managers to maintain reliable building operations. The Chief Engineer is also responsible for equipment inspections and documentation, regulatory and code compliance, safety protocols and training, and serving as a primary contact and first responder during building emergencies as needed. This position is 100% in-office during standard business hours; remote work or telecommuting is not available. The role may require after-hours, weekend, holiday, and emergency work, as well as daily travel to assigned properties. Physical requirements include standing, walking, climbing ladders, lifting up to 50 pounds, and performing tasks involving stooping, crouching, and kneeling.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 10 years of industry-related experience or commensurate certification or trade experience.
At least 5 years of supervisory, training, and mentoring experience, including developing and delivering performance appraisals and disciplinary action.
Engineering and trade licenses required by applicable local, state, or national requirements.
In-depth knowledge of Microsoft Office, energy management software, CMMS, and other building operational platforms.
Ability to travel daily to assigned properties as necessary.
Advanced knowledge of HVAC, BAS, fire protection, and life safety systems.
Strong troubleshooting, capital budgeting, and energy management skills and practices.
Strong contract administration and project management skills.
Familiarity with fire and life safety equipment and procedures.
Demonstrated ability to deliver excellent customer service and communicate and interact successfully with tenants, vendors, contractors, teammates, and leadership.
Familiarity with blueprints and code requirements.
Ability to serve as the primary point of contact and first responder for building emergencies and work after hours, weekends, holidays, and during emergencies as needed.
Competent knowledge of the use and care of tools.
Ability to read and write English to understand manuals and procedures and write reports.
Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, lift up to 50 pounds, and perform physically demanding tasks such as stooping, crouching, and kneeling.
Ability to perform the essential duties satisfactorily, with reasonable accommodations where applicable.

Nice To Haves

CFC Certification, or willingness to obtain it as requested.

Responsibilities

Manage building maintenance, including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems.
Monitor building energy use and promote efficient operations.
Oversee contractor work and manage tenant improvement projects.
Prepare budgets and control inventory and purchasing.
Supervise, train, and evaluate Engineering staff; develop performance goals and staff development plans.
Collaborate with tenants, contractors, and property managers to support building operations and address tenant issues.
Work with vendors to define scopes of work and oversee contract compliance and quality control.
Inspect building systems, maintain equipment documentation and service logs, and maintain compliance logs.
Follow and enforce safety protocols, including proper PPE use and compliance with OSHA, NEC, NFC, NFPA, building codes, and other applicable regulations.
Manage safety protocols, including the lockout/tagout program; report hazards, participate in safety inspections, and oversee safety training.
Communicate professionally with teammates, leadership, vendors, tenants, and client employees, keeping appropriate customers informed.
Act as the primary point of contact and first responder for building emergencies as needed, ensuring appropriate coverage.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Company-paid life insurance
Company-paid long-term disability
Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage
401(k) retirement savings plan, Traditional and Roth, subject to eligibility requirements
Flexible Time Off (FTO) or vacation benefits, depending on position classification
Paid sick leave and other legally required leave programs
Employee assistance and wellness programs where available
Company-paid holidays
Additional voluntary benefit offerings that may vary by location and position
Training programs and mentorship