Chief Engineer

Transwestern•Houston, TX

11d

About The Position

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the efficient operation of building systems, including HVAC, mechanical and electrical systems, drainage and plumbing, elevators and escalators, and security, fire, and life-safety systems. The role oversees general and preventive maintenance, tenant services, utility tracking, vendor oversight, and the selection, training, and supervision of a service-oriented engineering team. The Chief Engineer supervises engineering and maintenance staff, coordinates and monitors work orders, inspects completed work, and ensures equipment and client spaces are maintained in proper working condition. The position also supports compliance with applicable codes and directives, maintains preventive maintenance programs, responds to emergencies, manages energy-efficiency efforts, communicates with tenants and clients, and may assist with business development and management-contract acquisition. The role is based in Houston, Texas. Shift work, overtime, on-call duties, and extended periods of work during emergencies may be required. The position involves physical activity such as climbing ladders and stairs, stooping, standing, and lifting and carrying equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

Requirements

Trade-school training and at least 10 years of building operations experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
At least 7 years of building maintenance experience in a commercial property, including supervisory experience.
Appropriate trade license or permit as required, such as a Journeyman or Master Electrician license or applicable city licenses and certificates.
Experience operating, maintaining, and performing basic repairs on HVAC systems, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, and water systems.
Familiarity with Energy Management Systems (EMS) and programming, fire alarm systems, and Building Management Systems.
Knowledge of energy management systems, techniques, and operations.
Thorough knowledge of building systems operations, maintenance, and repair.
Basic skills with Microsoft Office Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Thorough understanding of HVAC, electrical, and building automation systems.
Ability to understand and give general instructions in standard situations.
Ability to present information effectively.
Strong organizational and analytical skills.
Strong customer service orientation.
Ability to perform physical tasks including stooping, standing, climbing, and frequently lifting equipment weighing at least 50 pounds; ability to safely install rigging or lifting devices.
Ability to lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds for distances of up to 30 feet.
Ability to climb ladders and stairs.
Availability for shift work, overtime, and/or on-call duties as required, and ability to work extended periods without relief during priority or emergency situations.

Responsibilities

Supervise engineers and maintenance staff, including hiring, training, performance assessments, and personnel development.
Review daily work orders, assign tasks as necessary, monitor recurring problems, and recommend corrective action.
Work with the Regional Director of Engineering to implement corporate and regional engineering goals.
Oversee and inspect engineering staff work to ensure tasks are complete, equipment is functional, and client spaces are in proper condition.
Ensure compliance with applicable codes, requisitions, government agency requirements, and company directives related to building operations.
May assist with new business development and acquisition of new management contracts.
Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs to help building machinery and systems meet or exceed their rated life.
Perform assigned repairs and emergency and preventive maintenance, and complete required maintenance and repair records.
Inspect building systems, including fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing, to verify operation within design capabilities and achievement of client-prescribed environmental conditions.
Review assigned work orders, estimate repair time and materials, maintain adequate supplies and tools, and order materials needed for tasks.
Consult with clients to schedule preventive maintenance and other downtime while minimizing business interruption and inconvenience.
Respond promptly to emergencies and summon additional assistance as needed.
Manage the energy management program to operate systems efficiently and minimize operating costs.
Communicate proactively with tenants, clients, property management, and vendors.
Perform other duties as assigned.