Position Overview:
The Chief Building Engineer is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day performance, upkeep, and repair of building systems within a residential property. Reporting to onsite management, this role ensures that all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and life-safety systems function efficiently to support a safe and comfortable environment for occupants. The ideal candidate brings a hands-on approach to maintenance, with strong technical expertise and a proactive problem-solving mindset.
Core Responsibilities:
Systems Operations & Maintenance
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Inspect, monitor, and maintain building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and life-safety equipment.
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Respond quickly to equipment issues, service requests, and emergency situations.
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Perform and oversee general maintenance work such as painting, drywall repair, and surface restoration to maintain property standards.
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Conduct routine property walkthroughs to assess work quality and identify maintenance needs.
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Assist in managing maintenance-related expenses by sourcing bids, evaluating vendors, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
Preventive Maintenance & Reporting
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Implement and maintain preventive maintenance programs for building equipment and infrastructure.
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Keep detailed records of maintenance activity, inspections, and system performance.
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Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reliability, and safety.
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Provide regular updates on building conditions, maintenance priorities, and upcoming work.
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Document inspections and work progress within internal tracking systems.
Repairs & Technical Support
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Troubleshoot and repair building systems and infrastructure as needed.
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Coordinate with external vendors for specialized services or large-scale projects.
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Oversee contractor performance to ensure work meets quality and compliance standards.
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Maintain records of service activity, repairs, and equipment history.
Safety & Regulatory Compliance
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Ensure adherence to applicable safety regulations, building codes, and compliance standards.
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Maintain proper documentation and handling procedures for hazardous materials.
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Coordinate required inspections and testing for key systems such as elevators and backup power equipment.
Resident & Team Support
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Address maintenance-related concerns from residents and staff in a professional manner.
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Communicate clearly regarding timelines, service disruptions, and ongoing work.
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Provide guidance and oversight to maintenance team members, supporting performance and development.
Qualifications:
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High school diploma or equivalent required; technical training or certifications preferred.
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Extensive experience in building maintenance within residential, commercial, or mixed-use properties, including leadership responsibilities.
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Strong working knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
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Relevant certifications (e.g., engineering or maintenance credentials) are a plus.
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Ability to interpret technical drawings, manuals, and system documentation preferred.
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Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
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Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and handling multiple priorities.
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Availability for on-call responsibilities and emergency response as needed.
Physical Requirements:
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Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting and hands-on repairs.
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Willingness to work in varied environments such as rooftops, confined spaces, and mechanical rooms.
Key Competencies:
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Technical proficiency and attention to detail
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Commitment to safety and compliance
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Strong customer service mindset
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Reliability and accountability
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Initiative and continuous improvement
Requirements
Qualifications and Skills: