Chief Engineer (Luxury Residences)

Comstock • Reston, VA

9h • Onsite

About The Position

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the seamless operation, maintenance, and presentation of all building systems within a luxury high-residences. This role is critical to delivering a five-star living experience by ensuring reliability, discretion, and excellence in all engineering services. The Chief Engineer leads the engineering team, oversees complex building systems, manages high-value capital projects, and works closely with property management and the Board of Directors to protect and enhance the asset’s value. This individual is expected to operate at a high level of professionalism, technical expertise, and resident service.

Requirements

• High School Diploma
• Current Driver's License
• Central Plant System experience required
• EPA Section 608 Universal Certification
• At least 10 years of Residential maintenance experience
• At least 8 years building facilities operation experience in a luxury apartment
• Minimum of 5 years supervisory experience as senior engineer/technician or equivalent position in facilities management
• Building automation systems experience required
• Proven experience providing excellent customer service
• Extensive knowledge of HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems in multi-family housing and mid to large size facility operations
• Exposure to budgeting and basic accounting
• Understands elevator maintenance, fire sprinkler/alarm systems and high-rise buildings
• Proficient with computers and relevant computer programs
• General understanding and use of Microsoft Office, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to work after hours, as needed including on-call rotation
• Must be highly credible and trustworthy, and operate with high degree of integrity
• Must hold oneself and others accountable and strive for a high level of excellence
• Must have a positive, can-do attitude and be able to fuel growth and innovation
• Must be customer-focused and results-oriented
• Must want to continuously learn and develop
• Exceptional oral and written communication, active listening, and organizational skills
• Ability to establish strong working relationships with others in team setting
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks with a strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment
• Self-directed and able to work independently, with minimal supervision

Nice To Haves

• Master of Electrician and Plumbing preferred
• Experience with Yardi preferred

Responsibilities

• Ensure all building systems operate at peak efficiency with zero disruption to residents whenever possible.
• Deliver a “white-glove” level of service—responding promptly, professionally, and discreetly to resident concerns.
• Maintain immaculate condition and presentation of all mechanical rooms, back-of-house areas, and service corridors.
• Coordinate work to minimize noise, inconvenience, and visual impact in occupied residences.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing engineering team with a service-first mindset.
• Establish clear performance standards aligned with luxury hospitality-level expectations.
• Maintain staffing schedules that ensure 24/7 coverage and rapid response capability.
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee operation, maintenance, and optimization of HVAC systems, including chillers, boilers, cooling towers, and VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) systems.
• Oversee operation, maintenance, and optimization of Building Automation Systems (BAS) and energy management platforms.
• Oversee operation, maintenance, and optimization of Electrical distribution, switchgear, and emergency generators.
• Oversee operation, maintenance, and optimization of Domestic water, booster pumps, and water treatment systems.
• Oversee operation, maintenance, and optimization of Fire/life safety systems and smoke control systems.
• Oversee operation, maintenance, and optimization of Elevators and vertical transportation systems.
• Utilize data and analytics to proactively identify system inefficiencies and implement improvements.
• Develop and execute long-term capital plans to maintain Class A/luxury standards.
• Lead major projects such as system upgrades, façade restoration, and amenity enhancements.
• Partner with consultants, engineers, and ownership on design, budgeting, and execution.
• Ensure all upgrades align with luxury market expectations and property positioning.
• Manage high-quality, vetted vendors who meet luxury service standards.
• Oversee all contracted work to ensure exceptional craftsmanship and minimal disruption.
• Enforce strict compliance with insurance, safety, and operational protocols.
• Prepare and manage the engineering operating and capital budgets.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality or resident experience.
• Support reserve studies and long-term financial planning.
• Maintain full compliance with all applicable codes, inspections, and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure flawless execution of life safety system testing and documentation.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary with Bonus Potential
• Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K Match, Life Insurance
• Opportunities for Advancement within our expanding portfolio
• Annual Professional Development Funds to fuel your growth
• Employee Discount for added benefits
• Friendly Work Environment that values collaboration
• Explore more perks and possibilities for growing your career with Comstock Companies! Discover what sets us apart!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees