Chief Engineer (L94)

Description

The Chief Engineer provides daily leadership for the engineering team, overseeing the engineering program to deliver high‑quality work and exceptional customer service while aligning with the Cushman & Wakefield platform and client expectations. This role upholds the highest ethical standards as defined in the company’s Business Code of Conduct and related policies.

The position is responsible for planning, implementing, coordinating and supervising all mechanical operations, maintenance, communications, energy management, and manpower development programs for assigned properties. Limited hands‑on operational duties and watch activity may also be required.

Leadership duties include supervising engineers and maintenance staff, handling hiring, training, performance management, coaching and disciplinary actions, and ensuring full compliance with the C&W Safety Program. The Chief Engineer also manages building operational accounts, variance reporting, and assists in the development of operating and capital budgets as well as utility tracking and cost analysis.

Technical responsibilities involve regular inspections of building systems, developing and maintaining preventive and predictive maintenance programs, creating and updating operation manuals, maintaining an operations document library, and delivering system‑specific training. Coordination with outside contractors, tenants, and vendors, oversight of fire/life safety, plumbing, HVAC and electrical systems, and rapid response to emergencies are also essential.

• Supervise engineers and maintenance staff including hiring, training, personnel development, etc.
• Ensure performance management, coaching, and development of team members through established HR processes and disciplinary actions.
• Participate and coordinate annual scheduling and execution of the C&W Safety Program as directed by Asset Services/GOS, Engineering Leadership, EH&S Administration, and so forth; responsible for 100% compliance at site.
• Manage operational accounts for building, including variance reporting, and assist in development of operating and capital budgets.
• Utility management such as tracking use, consumption, cost, reporting, comparison models, sub‑metering, budgeting, and variances as directed by management.
• Conduct regular inspections of building systems and equipment; identify and resolve issues.
• Assist in maintenance/engineering issues as required.
• Recommend and implement improvements for preventive maintenance programs on an ongoing basis.
• Develop, implement, and maintain an effective preventive and predictive maintenance program for task scheduling, routines, and performance, including annual, semi‑annual, quarterly, monthly, and other scheduled maintenance per manufacturer recommendations or industry best practices.
• Develop and maintain effective building‑specific maintenance and safety procedure manuals and train building personnel.
• Coordinate development of and/or maintain an Operations Document Library, including construction plans, structural plans, as‑built drawings, MEP schedules, line diagrams, schematics, equipment manuals, start‑up and commissioning documents, and equipment warranties.
• Formulate and conduct building‑related systems and equipment training.
• Coordinate maintenance efforts with outside contractors, tenant finish personnel, and engineers.
• Oversee all building systems including fire/life safety, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical issues; stay current with latest HVAC technology trends.
• Maintain ongoing communication with tenants, clients, property management, and vendors.
• Develop specifications and assist in solicitation, administration, execution, and performance of maintenance/repair service contracts.
• May assist in solicitation and acquisition of new management contracts.
• Respond quickly to all emergency situations (fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.) and customer concerns.
• Implement and administer inventory control programs; purchase parts and supplies.
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes, requisitions, government agency, and company directives related to building operations.
• Support the Property or Facility Manager with rehabilitation projects such as HVAC system replacement, new roof installation, plumbing repairs, and other building system alterations.
• Prepare and present feasibility studies.
• Prepare budget estimates.
• Prepare schedule and manage its progress.
• Prepare contract documents reflecting scope of work.
• Manage the bidding process.
• Prepare and expedite approval of all internal control documents.
• Monitor the construction process to assure compliance with contract documents.
• Coordinate all work with user and internal support groups.
• Maintain complete project files recording progress, approvals, financial data, and contracts.
• Perform final inspections, punch list exceptions, and expedite corrective action.
• Involves movement between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work.

Requirements

The role requires a high school diploma or GED plus at least seven years of commercial property engineering experience, vocational or technical certifications, and appropriate trade licenses. Core competencies include communication, interpersonal, organizational, technical proficiency, and leadership, complemented by financial acumen, EMS knowledge, and basic computing skills.

• Communication Proficiency (oral and written).
• Interpersonal Skills.
• Organization Skills.
• Technical Proficiency.
• Vocational/Technical training certificate.
• Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, e.g., Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses.
• Universal Technician for CFC’s depending on market licensure requirements.
• Financial knowledge necessary for reading and understanding budgets, budget variances, and basic reporting as required by management.
• Familiar with Energy Management System (EMS)/programming and fire alarm systems.
• Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word.
• Working knowledge of all aspects of building systems and operations, contractual maintenance, construction and related services, and local laws and building codes pertaining to building operations and safety.
• Must have ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs. of equipment (pumps, tools, ladders) and safely install rigging/lifting devices.
• Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine.
• Ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
• Ability to read and understand information presented orally and in writing.
• Regularly required to utilize vision abilities, allowing reading of printed material, drawings, and schematics.

Benefits

Cushman & Wakefield offers a competitive salary range of $52.70‑$62.00 per hour, comprehensive benefits, and an inclusive work environment that complies with equal employment opportunity laws. The position operates in a professional office setting with occasional travel and requires physical abilities such as lifting 50 lb, climbing, and navigating various site conditions.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance