[UNION] Chief Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield • Philadelphia, PA

6d • $53 - $63

About The Position

The Chief Engineer leads the engineering staff and manages the engineering program to deliver quality work and customer service. The role administers the engineering department in alignment with the management team, the C&W engineering platform, and client expectations, and requires adherence to company ethical standards and policies. The Chief Engineer plans, implements, coordinates, and supervises mechanical operations, maintenance, communications, energy management, and workforce development for assigned properties. The position may include limited hands-on operational work, watch activity, shift work, and on-call or standby duties. Duties include approximately 50% operating engineer responsibilities, and the Chief Engineer may be the only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts.

The role oversees building systems and maintenance programs, staff performance and development, safety compliance, operating accounts, utility management, and contractor coordination. It also supports the Property or Facility Manager on building rehabilitation projects, from feasibility studies and budgeting through construction oversight, final inspections, and project documentation.

The position operates in a professional office environment, routinely uses standard office equipment, and regularly requires travel outside between properties in varying weather conditions. The compensation listed is $53.39–$62.81; the posting does not specify the pay period.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• At least 7 years of related work experience in a commercial property setting, or a similar combination of education or experience in building systems operations, installation, and maintenance.
• In-depth technical understanding of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire/life safety, and control systems.
• Vocational or technical training certificate.
• Appropriate trade license or permit as required, such as a Journeyman or Master Electrician license or city license.
• Universal Technician certification for CFCs, depending on market licensing requirements.
• Financial knowledge sufficient to read and understand budgets, budget variances, and basic reporting.
• Familiarity with Energy Management Systems (EMS), programming, and fire alarm systems.
• Basic computing skills in Outlook, Excel, and Word.
• Working knowledge of building systems and operations, contractual maintenance, construction and related services, and local laws and building codes related to building operations and safety.
• Ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift at least 50 pounds, and safely install rigging or lifting devices.
• Ability to crouch and reach to install or move equipment by bending at the waist, legs, and spine.
• Ability to move between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work.
• Ability to speak clearly and understand information presented orally and in writing.
• Vision sufficient to read printed material, drawings, and schematics.

Responsibilities

• Supervise engineering and maintenance staff, including hiring, training, and personnel development.
• Manage employee performance, coaching, development, and disciplinary actions through established HR processes.
• Coordinate and execute the C&W Safety Program and ensure full site compliance.
• Manage building operational accounts, report variances, and assist with operating and capital budgets.
• Track and report utility use, consumption, costs, and variances; support budgeting, comparison models, and sub-metering as directed.
• Inspect building systems and equipment regularly and identify and resolve issues.
• Assist with maintenance and engineering issues as required.
• Recommend and implement improvements to preventive maintenance programs.
• Develop and maintain preventive and predictive maintenance programs, including scheduled maintenance routines and procedures.
• Create and maintain building-specific maintenance and safety procedure manuals and train building personnel.
• Coordinate and maintain an Operations Document Library containing building plans, drawings, schedules, manuals, commissioning documents, and warranties.
• Develop and conduct training on building systems and equipment.
• Coordinate maintenance with outside contractors, tenant finish personnel, and engineers.
• Oversee fire/life safety, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems and stay current with HVAC technology trends.
• Maintain communication with tenants, clients, property management, and vendors.
• Develop specifications and assist with solicitation, administration, execution, and performance of maintenance and repair service contracts.
• May assist with solicitation and acquisition of new management contracts.
• Respond promptly to emergencies and customer concerns.
• Administer inventory control programs and purchase parts and supplies.
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes, government requirements, and company directives related to building operations.
• Support the Property or Facility Manager on rehabilitation projects, including preparing feasibility studies, budgets, schedules, contract documents, bids, and internal control documents; monitoring construction; coordinating work; maintaining project files; and conducting final inspections and follow-up on corrective actions.
• Perform operating engineer duties, which comprise approximately 50% of the role.

Benefits

• Eligible employees may enroll in health insurance.
• Eligible employees may enroll in vision insurance.
• Eligible employees may enroll in dental insurance.
• Eligible employees may enroll in flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.
• Eligible employees may enroll in retirement savings plans.
• Eligible employees may enroll in life and disability insurance programs.
• Eligible employees receive paid and unpaid time away from work.
• Competitive pay.

What This Job Offers

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