Chief Engineer

U.S. Chamber of Commerce•Washington, DC

18h•Hybrid

About The Position

If you are passionate about the ability of American business to improve lives, solve problems, and strengthen society, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the place for you. As the world’s largest business organization, we believe in building a future that gives everyone the opportunity to pursue a better tomorrow. We make it our job today–and every day–to build the strongest relationships possible among the American people, business leaders, and elected officials in Washington, D.C., state capitals, and countries around the globe. For them and the businesses we represent, the U.S. Chamber is a trusted advocate and partner. We are driven by the pursuit of innovation and partnership and hold ourselves to the highest standards. Our commitment to our members is matched only by our commitment to our employees. As part of our team, we will support your long-term career development while delivering relevant learning opportunities. We will empower you to lead, develop deep expertise, and find new approaches to solving the toughest challenges. The Chief Engineer leads all engineering operations for Chamber headquarters and additional facilities, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient performance of all building systems. This role oversees engineering staff, manages vendors and contractors, and leads maintenance and capital improvement projects, with a strong focus on compliance, sustainability, and the stewardship of a historic building.

Requirements

Valid Third-Class Stationary Engineer’s License (District of Columbia or recognized equivalent).
Trade school education, technical degree, or additional mechanical certifications.
Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in building engineering within large commercial, institutional, or historic facilities.
Demonstrated leadership experience managing engineering teams and complex operations.
Strong working knowledge of HVAC systems, including chillers, boilers, air handlers, pumps, and controls.
Experience working directly with contractors, engineers, architects, inspectors, and consultants.
Proficiency with building automation systems (BAS/BMS).
Solid understanding of OSHA regulations, code compliance, and safe work practices.
Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to respond to after-hours emergencies.

Nice To Haves

Experience operating or managing historic or landmark buildings.
Capital project and renovation experience in occupied buildings.
Prior experience as a chief engineer or in a senior engineering leadership role.

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee the daily operations and maintenance of HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), building automation, and life safety systems.
Supervise, train, and mentor engineering staff, maintaining high standards of performance, safety, and professionalism.
Develop, implement, and manage preventive and predictive maintenance programs to protect building assets and extend system life.
Serve as the primary technical liaison for repairs, renovations, capital improvements, and historic preservation projects.
Collaborate with general contractors, architects, engineers, inspectors, and project managers throughout project lifecycle activities.
Ensure the proper operation, testing, and compliance of fire alarm, sprinkler, emergency power, and other life safety systems.
Manage vendor relationships, service contracts, inspections, testing, and quality assurance.
Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal codes, historic building requirements, and OSHA standards.
Respond to emergencies and lead troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective action.
Maintain accurate operational logs, reports, and technical documentation.
Partner closely with building operations leadership, security, staff, and external consultants to support seamless operations.
Support budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and capital planning initiatives.
Monitor energy use and implement sustainability initiatives to reduce environmental impact and operating costs.
Balance modern building performance needs with the requirements of maintaining a historic landmark.