Senior Building Operator, Commercial

Aquilini Properties LP; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Aquilini Properties is seeking a Senior Building Operator, Commercial to lead day-to-day operations across a Vancouver portfolio of office, retail, and industrial properties. The role requires hands-on management of BAS, HVAC, and building systems to ensure reliability and high standards of maintenance.

You will supervise operators, coordinate vendors, and ensure safety, preventive maintenance, and tenant satisfaction, with after-hours support as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5+ years of progressive experience in building operations, with strong exposure to commercial real estate and mechanical systems.
• Comprehensive knowledge of HVAC systems, BAS/DDC controls, electrical, plumbing, and life safety systems.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with tenants, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Must pass a Criminal Record Check and have a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day operations and maintenance across a multi-property commercial portfolio.
• Oversee Building Automation Systems (BAS) and DDC controls; troubleshoot and optimize performance.
• Coordinate contractors and service vendors to meet high standards within budget and scope.
• Ensure preventive maintenance programs are implemented across properties.
• Maintain tenant relationships through professional communication and timely responses.

Skills

BAS management

HVAC systems

Vendor coordination

Team leadership

Emergency response

Tools

Prism CMMS

BAS/DDC

Job description

• On-site
• Operations
• Full-Time
• Requisition #: SENIO005226

Description

POSITION: Senior Building Operator, Commercial

DEPARTMENT: Aquilini Properties

REPORTS TO: Property Manager(s)

SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Property Manager, the Senior Building Operator, Commercial is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations and maintenance across a diverse commercial portfolio of office, retail, industrial, and stratified mixed-use properties across Vancouver. This role requires a hands‑on mobile, technically proficient professional who ensures all building systems operate efficiently and that properties are maintained to the highest standards, reflecting positively on the Company.

COMPANY PROFILE:

Aquilini Group (“AG”) is a diversified family business founded in Vancouver, BC more than 50 years ago with roots in the real estate development and construction industry. Today the company owns and manages an international real estate portfolio that includes commercial and residential properties, hotels, golf courses, vineyards, and blueberry and cranberry farms. In addition to its ongoing pursuits in real estate development and construction, AG has expanded its holdings to include assets in sports and entertainment, renewable energy, aquaculture, tourist attractions, restaurants, and food and beverage industries.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strong leadership capability with experience overseeing operations teams in addition with vendors, contractors in a multi‑property environment.
• Advanced knowledge and hands‑on operation of Building Automation Systems (BAS), including DDC systems, with the ability to troubleshoot, adjust, and optimize performance.
• Conduct comprehensive inspections and preventative maintenance of all major building systems, including HVAC, boilers, chillers, cooling towers, plumbing, and electrical infrastructure.
• Monitor, analyze, and optimize building performance through ongoing review of systems, equipment, and contractor work to ensure operational efficiency and reliability.
• Oversee and coordinate contractors and service vendors, ensuring work is completed to high standards, within budget, and in accordance with scope.
• Implement and maintain standardized inspection and preventative maintenance programs across all properties.
• Build and maintain strong tenant relationships through professional communication and timely resolution of maintenance requests.
• Lead and manage the Prism Work Order System, ensuring accurate tracking, prioritization, and timely completion of all service requests.
• Ensure strict adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), while identifying opportunities for process improvements.
• Source qualified vendors, obtain competitive quotes, and support capital planning initiatives in alignment with operational budgets.
• Oversee exterior property maintenance, including landscaping, snow removal, line painting, and general site upkeep to maintain strong curb appeal.
• Maintain all property assets to a high standard, enhancing overall value, safety, and tenant satisfaction.
• Collaborate with internal teams to review service contracts, identify cost efficiencies, and enhance service delivery quality.
• Supervise and coordinate building operator(s) activities, optimizing workflow and ensuring timely completion of all tasks.
• Perform hands‑on maintenance and repairs as required, demonstrating technical expertise and leadership.
• Plan and execute quarterly and annual maintenance programs, including lifecycle and capital improvement projects.
• Respond promptly to tenant service calls and emergency situations, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
• Maintain accurate documentation and reporting through work order systems and maintenance logs.
• Assist in developing and updating maintenance schedules and operational plans.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of 5+ years of progressive experience in building operations, with strong exposure to commercial real estate and mechanical systems.
• Comprehensive knowledge of HVAC systems, BAS/DDC controls, electrical, plumbing, and life safety systems.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex operational issues.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with tenants, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Ability to assess situations, make informed decisions, and elevate issues when necessary.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and experience with CMMS platforms such as Prism or equivalent systems.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle that allows the ability to drive to and from the properties.
• Must pass a Criminal Record Check.
• Availability to respond to after‑hours emergencies and participate in on‑call rotation as required.