Lead Building Engineer

The Lead Building Engineer is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining complex building systems with a focus on HVAC, electrical, and plumbing, involving a higher level of troubleshooting and independent problem-solving than the Building Engineer I.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Independently troubleshoot, repair, and maintain HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and building automation systems (BAS).

• Perform preventive maintenance (PM) and inspections on critical building systems and equipment.

• Conduct daily building rounds, including water treatment testing and review of BAS system operations to ensure proper performance.

• Record equipment readings, log building activities, and maintain accurate maintenance and operational records.

• Review and respond to tenant service requests in a timely and professional manner.

• Proactively inspect building systems, identify deficiencies, and ensure preventive maintenance schedules are completed and tracked.

• Lead and coordinate daily scheduled work activities for engineering staff.

• Conduct morning rounds and ensure evening rounds are completed by late shift personnel.

• Review completed service tickets and verify PM work is performed correctly and in compliance with standards.

• Manage and coordinate service contractors during routine maintenance, repairs, and emergency situations while ensuring compliance with building safety rules and regulations.

• Track, order, and maintain building supplies and inventory as needed.

• Collaborate with contractors, tenants, engineers, and leadership to ensure smooth building operations and timely issue resolution.

• Consult with the Chief Engineer regarding operational issues, scheduling, and maintenance planning.

• Mentor junior engineers and technicians and assist in the training and development of less experienced staff.

• Follow company safety protocols and wear appropriate PPE; ensure compliance with OSHA, NEC, NFC, and NFPA regulations.

• Report safety hazards and participate in safety inspections and compliance initiatives.

• Communicate professionally, both verbally and in writing, with tenants, vendors, contractors, leadership, and team members.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Building Systems and Equipment Knowledge

• Candidates should possess working knowledge and experience with:

• Centrifugal chillers

• Induced draft and forced draft cooling towers

• Water treatment systems and procedures

• VAV (Variable Air Volume) systems

• Plate heat exchangers

• Building Automation Systems (BAS)

• Electrical troubleshooting

• Commercial plumbing systems

• Fire alarm and life safety systems and protocols

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.

• Three to five years of related commercial building engineering experience or equivalent trade/certification experience required.

• Commercial building experience required; residential-only experience is not acceptable.

• Prior experience leading or supervising a small engineering staff preferred.

• Experience scheduling and managing contractors and vendors.

• CFC Certification preferred or willingness to obtain.

• Possess applicable engineering or trade licenses required by local, state, or national regulations.

• Familiarity with blueprints, building codes, and safety regulations.

• Strong customer service and communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with tenants, vendors, contractors, and leadership.

• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and mobile/laptop applications used for work orders and facility management systems.

• Competent knowledge of tools, equipment operation, and maintenance procedures.

• Ability to read and write English to understand technical manuals, procedures, and prepare reports.

• Willingness to develop advanced proficiency in HVAC systems, BAS controls, and life safety systems.

• Ability to work after hours, weekends, holidays, and during emergency situations as needed.

• Must reside within one hour driving distance of the property.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, and lift up to 50 pounds; perform physically demanding tasks such as stooping, crouching, and kneeling.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.