Chief Building Engineer

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

313d • $39 - $51

About The Position

The Chief Building Engineer is responsible for the safe, economical operation of the building and for all employees under the direction of the Chief Engineer, in addition to performing bargaining unit work. The Chief Engineer will also be responsible for the orientation and training of Engineers and Trainees under their direction. Employees will receive their direction from the Chief Engineer who is responsible to the University for carrying out the orders of the management in the operation of the building. The Chief Engineer will be informed of any contemplated major repairs or major improvement to be made in the equipment or the building and will relay that information on to the Building Engineers. These responsibilities will be carried out in a manner consistent with high quality maintenance, economical, and efficient operation.

Requirements

• High school diploma or general education degree (GED) from an accredited institution required.
• Completion of job-related associates degree (AA) preferred.
• Four years job-related experience required.
• Completion of job-related apprenticeship program preferred.
• Advanced job-related training programs preferred.
• Prior supervisory experience required.
• Current valid driver's license, other licenses or certificates needed for this position as required by law.
• Coursework completion or certification in one or more of the following core competencies – HVAC, basic electrical, plumbing, piping and fluid-handling systems, refrigeration, building automation systems or an encompassing certification such as in physical plant maintenance preferred.
• Access computer programs and use or learn basic computer operations related to position requirements preferred.
• Read and interpret documents required.
• Communicate effectively in English both orally and in writing required.
• Perform mathematical functions relevant to the position required.
• Demonstrated ability to problem-solve required.

Responsibilities

• Daily inspections of all mechanical areas, penthouses, common spaces, including washrooms and stairwells, and building exterior.
• Inspect the operation and maintenance of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and other building systems, as well as other duties as assigned by the Supervisor.
• Weekly inspection of all vacant areas.
• Regular inspection of all roofs, drains, flashings.
• Documented monthly inspection of all emergency lights, fire extinguishers, fire alarm system(s), and local door alarms.
• Set-up and maintain an effective program for care and maintenance of all mechanical systems.
• Set-up and maintain a preventive maintenance program that will include but limited to the following: Lubricate all motors according to manufacturers or industry guidelines and keep log for review with Building Engineer’s and Supervisor.
• Inspect all fan belts for wear and keep log of changes for review with Building Engineers.
• Schedule and log all filter changes for review.
• Regularly test and treat HVAC water system as directed by water treatment specialist.
• Respond to all building or equipment problems or failures and notify Supervisor of same.
• Maintain and inventory of all major building equipment, tools and spare parts.
• Place orders for all necessary equipment and repair or maintenance items.
• Continually evaluate systems to insure maximum efficiency and energy conservation.
• Monitor and advise Supervisor about mechanical system contracts, especially for elevator and chiller.
• Respond to tenant complaints about mechanical systems and report complaints to supervisor.
• Read and log all energy consumption meters on a monthly basis.
• Assist supervisor in establishing and implementing emergency procedures.
• Perform minor carpentry work, such as hanging bulletin boards and picture, and repair building furniture.
• Maintain, install, re-combinate cores, and cut keys according to the Best Locking System guidelines.
• Perform minor electrical repairs, lamp and ballast replacement.
• Perform minor plumbing repairs, including but not limited to replacement of toilet seats, repair/replacement of Sloan valves, repair/replace sink faucets, sink traps, etc.
• Remain on-site during all contractual or other repair work during regular hours and off hours, as necessary.
• Respond promptly to all building emergencies.
• Remove snow and salt sidewalks and parking lot, as required.
• Monitor parking lot; place stickers on cars violating regulations; call University Police or Chicago Police, as necessary.
• Pick up debris at building entries and emergency exits.
• Set time clock and maintain lawn sprinkler system.
• Remove trash from receptacles/ash trays at main building entry.
• Move building furniture and other equipment after prior approval of Supervisor.
• Assist Supervisor in planning of special events, including moves-in or out.
• Monitor all moves within the building.
• Monitor pest control and accompany pest control technician on his rounds.
• Regularly inspect building areas and notify Supervisor about cleaning problems; remove graffiti as soon as it appears.
• Note special requests or complaints in cleaners’ logbook located in second floor janitorial closet.
• Maintain an adequate supply of paper products and poly liners in each janitorial closet.
• Maintain adequate inventory of cleaning products.
• Refill sanitary napkin dispensers and empty coin drawer.
• Perform emergency clean-up during the day if the situation is dangerous or too critical to wait for the cleaners; ensure that trades people clean up after work.
• Monitor all outside lights to insure they are working properly and areas are safely illuminated.
• Report any suspicious person or activity to University Police and Building Manager.
• Check all alarms monthly to ensure proper working order.
• Performs related job duties as may be assigned.

Benefits

• The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: High school or GED