Lead Operating Engineer

JLL•McLean, VA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Lead Operating Engineer at JLL, you'll be the technical backbone of critical facility operations, ensuring commercial building systems operate at peak performance 24/7. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with leadership responsibilities across mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. You'll serve as the go-to expert for complex equipment troubleshooting while maintaining the safety, efficiency, and reliability of building infrastructure that supports our clients' business operations. Your work directly impacts tenant satisfaction, operational costs, and building performance—making you an essential contributor to JLL's mission of delivering exceptional facility management services.

Requirements

5+ years of hands-on experience maintaining and repairing commercial building systems including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical equipment.
EPA 608 Type II Certification (required by law for handling refrigerants).
Demonstrated ability to analyze commercial or industrial mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems, diagnose malfunctions, and implement effective corrective solutions.
Working knowledge of Building Management Systems (BMS) and machine controls for monitoring and operating building equipment.
Proficiency with computer applications including Microsoft Word and Excel for documentation, reporting, and communication.
High School diploma or GED equivalent.
Valid driver's license and ability to maintain a company service vehicle for travel between building locations.

Nice To Haves

EPA 608 Universal Certification, demonstrating advanced refrigerant handling capabilities across all system types.
Two years of formal trades schooling or technical education in electrical system design, refrigeration, or HVAC technology.
Experience with preventative maintenance software systems and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
Universal or specialty certifications in HVAC, electrical, or plumbing trades demonstrating advanced technical knowledge.
Prior experience in a lead or mentoring role, guiding other technicians or coordinating maintenance activities across multiple sites.

Responsibilities

Operate, monitor, and maintain mechanical, electrical, plumbing, structural, fire/life safety, and control systems across assigned facilities, ensuring all equipment meets or exceeds applicable performance and safety standards.
Perform preventative maintenance tasks including cleaning, inspecting, calibrating, and replacing components on HVAC systems and associated equipment to maintain optimum performance levels and prevent costly breakdowns.
Record equipment readings, make necessary adjustments, and document system performance to ensure proper operation while identifying potential issues before they escalate.
Travel between multiple buildings within your assigned geography to execute work orders, respond to service calls, and maintain building systems with flexibility and efficiency.
Manage facility services including purchasing and inventory control for parts and supplies, coordinate with outside contractors to ensure quality work at competitive pricing, and maintain accurate maintenance records.
Maintain a clean, safe work environment by properly storing, using, and disposing of hazardous materials in compliance with departmental safety policies and regulations.
Perform physical tasks including bending, kneeling, squatting, standing, reaching, and accessing equipment in various positions for extended periods, while working in diverse environmental conditions including heat, cold, rain, and varying daylight hours.