Lead Building Engineer - Corporate

Sunroad Automotive•San Diego, CA

47d

About The Position

The Lead Building Engineer is a senior-level, hands-on technical expert responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of all critical building systems at The Vive Collection, a 1,245-unit mid-rise multifamily property. This role requires advanced, expert-level knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, life-safety operations, and building automation. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver who can diagnose and repair complex issues, manage preventive maintenance programs, and ensure the asset remains safe, efficient, and fully operational.

Requirements

Minimum of seven (7) years of progressive experience in building engineering or maintenance, with at least three (3) years in a lead/senior role on a large commercial, hospital, hospitality, or multifamily asset 500+ units preferred.
Demonstrable, hands-on experience managing and repairing complex mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
Expert-level knowledge of commercial HVAC systems (chillers, boilers, cooling towers, VFDs, and RTUs).
Advanced knowledge of electrical systems, with the ability to safely work on live circuits and troubleshoot high-voltage equipment.
Proficiency with Building Automation Systems (BAS) (e.g., Siemens, Johnson Controls, Trane, ALC).
Strong understanding of large-scale domestic plumbing and hot water generation.
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.
Proficiency with mobile maintenance software (CMMS) and basic computer skills.
EPA Universal Certification: (Required)
Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Certification: (Required, or must be obtained within 90 days of hire)
Valid Driver's License: (Required)

Nice To Haves

OSHA 10-Hour or 30-Hour Certification.
Relevant trade license or advanced certification (e.g., Journeyman HVAC, Electrical License, NATE, or similar).
Certification in fire alarm systems or building operations (e.g., FACP, SMT/SMA).

Responsibilities

Mechanical & HVAC Systems: Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair all HVAC systems, which may include a central plant, chillers, cooling towers, boilers, variable frequency drives (VFDs), heat pumps, and RTUs. Manage and service all associated pumps, motors, and controls. Implement and manage a robust water treatment program for closed-loop, boiler, and tower systems. Oversee all refrigerant management, recovery, and logging in compliance with EPA standards.
Electrical & Life-Safety Systems: Troubleshoot and repair complex electrical systems, including main switchgear, panels, and building/site lighting (up to 480v). Operate, test, and maintain emergency generators and automatic transfer switches (ATS). Serve as the primary technician for the building's fire alarm and life-safety systems, overseeing inspections, testing, and repairs in coordination with third-party vendors. Maintain all fire pumps, sprinklers, and standpipe systems.
Plumbing Systems: Maintain and repair large-scale domestic hot water systems, including high-efficiency boilers, storage tanks, and mixing valves. Manage and service domestic water booster pumps and pressure-reducing valves (PRVs). Oversee building-wide drainage, sump pump, and sewer systems.
Building Operations: Monitor, program, and optimize the Building Automation System (BAS) / Energy Management System (EMS) to ensure resident comfort and maximum energy efficiency. Execute a comprehensive preventive maintenance (PM) program for all major equipment, meticulously logging all work in the property's CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System). Manage and maintain all pool and spa equipment (pumps, heaters, filters, and chemical controllers). Oversee building access control systems, including electronic locks, entry gates, and key fob systems. Supervise vendors and contractors on-site to ensure work is completed to specification, on time, and safely. Participate in an on-call rotation for after-hours building emergencies.