Assistant Chief Engineer

UBC; East Central Okanagan Electoral Area; On-site; CAD 66,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

UBC in the Okanagan campus seeks an Assistant Chief Engineer to lead daily operation of the central heating plant and related HVAC systems. You will supervise Plant Engineers and HVAC Technicians, schedule work, and coordinate with external contractors to ensure continuous campus operations 24/7.

The role requires a 4th Class Power Engineer certificate, a Class 5 Driver’s License, and 8+ years of related experience, including supervisory duties.

Qualifications

• 4th Class Power Engineer Certificate is required.
• Class 5 Driver's License is required.
• 8+ years of progressive related experience, including supervisory experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversees safe and efficient operation of central heating plant and auxiliary systems.
• Schedules work for Plant Engineers to ensure efficient operations.
• Maintains computerized building management system and preventative maintenance program.
• Monitors and documents work orders from initiation to completion.
• Provides day-to-day supervision of engineers and HVAC technicians.
• Coordinates with external contractors for complex projects and safety compliance.

Skills

Safety-conscious

Strong communication

Analytical thinking

Flexibility

On-call readiness

Education

4th Class Power Engineer Certificate

Class 5 Driver's License

Tools

BMS

Pumps & Boilers

HVAC controls

Job description

Job TitleAssistant Chief EngineerJob CategoryBCGEU Okanagan Support StaffJob ProfileBCGEU OK Salaried - Charge EngineerJob Family GroupStaff - UnionDepartmentUBCO | Operations and Utilities | Facilities ManagementCompensation Range$5,909.00 - $6,771.00 CAD MonthlyJob End DateOngoingPosting End DateNovember 23, 2026Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the Posting End Date.This position is subject to the satisfactory completion of required background checksAt UBC, we believe that attracting and sustaining a diverse workforce is key to the successful pursuit of excellence in research, innovation, and learning for all faculty, staff and students. Our commitment to employment equity helps achieve inclusion and fairness, brings rich diversity to UBC as a workplace, and creates the necessary conditions for a rewarding career.Job Description SummaryThis position provides first-line supervision and is responsible for planning, organizing and coordinating operational and maintenance services. This position oversees the safe and efficient operation of the central heating plant and auxiliary systems, performs operational and maintenance duties and ensures the reliable, continuous operation of campus facilities 24 hours a day, seven days a week.Organizational StatusUnder the direction of the Assistant Manager, Engineering and Utilities, this position provides day-to-day functional supervision to the Power Engineers and HVAC Efficiency Technicians. This position coordinates and prioritizes work assignments for engineering staff and maintains Prioritizes work for other engineers. Maintains effective working relationships with a variety of internal and external groups including: UBC faculties, staff and administrative departments, other institutions, external agencies, advisory committees, professional associations and community organizations.Work PerformedProvides safe and efficient operation of the central heating plant and auxiliary systems, essential to UBC operations:Schedules work performed by Plant Engineers to ensure efficient and productive work in the physical Plant area and other auxiliary systems throughout the campus.Performs all operating duties for the central heating plant, as well as for all HVAC, control systems, and other mechanical and control equipment requiring significant periods of concentration throughout the workday.Carries out specialized and highly technical maintenance work and repairing boilers, pumps, air compressors, HVAC systems controls and other related equipment.Arranges and communicates with external contractors regarding complex projects on a regular basis.Performs work in confined spaces and at heights, as required, using appropriate respiratory protection and fall protection equipment in accordance with established safety procedures and requirements.Provides input into the planning and organizing of complex operational and maintenance services, essential to UBC:Administers and maintains a computerized building management system and a preventative maintenance program.Keeps and maintains necessary administrative and systems records, such as log books, water treatment records, and tool inventories.Holds a p-card and is responsible for monthly reconciliations.Assists in maintaining an adequate inventory of operating and maintenance supplies and tools.Provides day-to-day supervision of Engineers including monitoring and scheduling of work activities.Monitors and tracks work orders from initiation through to completion, ensuring work is assigned, scheduled, and completed within established timelines. Maintains accurate and complete documentation, including work records, maintenance reports, and associated paperwork to support operational tracking.Performs other related duties as required.Consequence of Error/JudgementAbility to recognize and report hazards and apply safe work methods, such as: lock-out procedures, fall protection and confined space entry. Resulting in significant safety hazards to the campus community and co-workers. There could be a backlog in the work load and delays in critical and essential business functions. This position is given a high level of autonomy and authority and poor judgement could result in injury to staff, students and faculty, reduced service to the University and its staff as well as significant financial repercussions.Supervision ReceivedThe position is under the direction of the Assistant Manager, Engineering and Utilities.Supervision GivenThis position schedules work performed by Plant Engineers and HVAC efficiency technicians to ensure efficient operation of the Okanagan campus. This position is responsible for leading by example, as well as assisting in developing strengths in the department. Provides input into establishing work standards, and input into appraising the work of others and input into hiring decisions.Preferred QualificationsValid 4th Class Power Engineer Certificate required.Valid Class 5 Drivers License required.Over 8 years progressive related experience, including two years of previous supervisory experience.Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own.Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion.Completion of required safety training in confined space entry, respirator fit testing, and fall protection, with certifications maintained in accordance with UBC requirements.Demonstrated computer skills are required.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required.Ability to perform strenuous physical work. Assume uncomfortable awkward positions. Required to lift up to 50lbs on a frequent basis.Must be able to work in areas which have higher levels of noise using proper hearing protection. Proven ability to operate hand and power tools and equipment, work in confined areas, withstand heights and/or long periods of bending, and working in extreme climate conditions on a continuous basis.Able to work flexible hours and or shifts and possibly weekends.Analytical thinking that incorporates creativity and innovation.Flexibility and comfort with change.This position is also required to share the responsibility of being on call.