Building Engineer

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is seeking a Building Engineer to provide routine and emergency engineering, maintenance, and repair services at a Chicagoland location, ensuring a positive member experience. You will supervise facilities technicians, report on maintenance activities, and adhere to preventative maintenance plans while upholding building codes and safety standards.

The role requires 3+ years in building maintenance or a related field, with hands-on expertise in HVAC, electrical, and

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years in building maintenance or related field.
• Experience with HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and general building repairs.
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.
• Strong organizational and communication skills for staff, vendors, and customers.
• Familiarity with safety regulations and building codes.

Responsibilities

• Provide routine and emergency engineering, maintenance, and repairs.
• Lead facilities technicians and supervise team progress.
• Maintain records and administer preventative maintenance plans.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, building codes, and processes.
• Deliver high levels of customer service to members and staff.
• Willingness to travel within Chicagoland as needed.

Skills

Building systems knowledge

Problem solving

Blueprints & manuals

Organizational skills

Communication

Teamwork & independence

Maintenance tools

Computer basics

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate degree or technical certification in engineering or facilities management

Tools

Maintenance management software

Job description

The Building Engineer is responsible for providing routine/emergency engineering, maintenance and repair services at

assigned location to ensure a positive member/participant experience. Interfaces with customers and staff at location to

meet facility needs and requirements and provide a high level of customer service within service level agreements.

Provides day-to-day assignments and team leader support for facilities technicians and reports on building maintenance

activities and work progress. Responsible for routine assessments of building systems and equipment, analyzes data to

ensure proper functioning and adheres to preventative maintenance plans. Provides hands‑on engineering support for

routine, preventative, and emergency maintenance services as needed such as carpentry, electrical, HVAC, plumbing,

landscape services and other building systems to optimize service quality and maintenance costs while adhering to

building codes, maintenance standards and processes.

Facilities engineering experience typically held by those with 5 or more years of related experience or an equivalent

combination of related education and experience; team leadership experience coaching or directing team members

is preferred

Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in all phases of physical plant operations including building systems,

equipment maintenance and repair, scheduling, and administration

Technical, hands‑on expertise in HVAC, electrical and/or plumbing systems including diagnosis, troubleshooting and

repairs

Knowledge of OSHA and related safety practices as well as state and local safety, fire, construction, and public

access regulations.

Ability to keep detailed, accurate and complete records and documentation as needed.

Budget and expense management experience, with the ability to assist in managing budgets to plan

Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), email, Facility Dude or related software; ability to learn

and adapt to new technology

Experience motivating and supporting a diverse, high‑performing team including developing and coaching team

members.

Customer service orientation, with the ability to effectively communicate on a regular basis with internal

customers, build relationships, manage customer expectations and take responsibility for a high level of service.

Proficient verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly and concisely present ideas and

concepts and tailor communication to multiple, non‑technical audiences including team, customers, and other

constituents.

Demonstrated interpersonal skills with the ability to effective build and maintain relationships with customers,

team members and other stakeholders and constituents.

Critical thinking skills and track record of continuous improvement including identifying and effectively addressing

service needs and gaps.

Ability to organize and prioritize multiple, competing priorities to maximize personal and team effectiveness.

Continuous learner who leverages opportunities for learning and applies new knowledge and skills.

Demonstrates evidence of YMCA Leader competencies in previous experience or practice.

Meet physical qualifications required as outlined in job description including visual acuity.

Ability to travel locally in the Chicagoland (city and suburbs) with a valid Driver’s License

Qualifications

Required Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• An associate degree or technical certification in engineering, facilities management, or a related field is preferred.

Required Experience

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in building maintenance or a related field.
• Experience with HVAC systems, electrical, plumbing, and general building repairs.
• Previous experience in a similar role within a community-focused organization or non-profit is advantageous.

Required Skills And Abilities

• Strong knowledge of building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve maintenance issues effectively.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Good communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact professionally with staff, vendors, and community members.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability.
• Proficiency in using maintenance and repair tools and equipment safely and effectively.
• Basic computer skills, including familiarity with maintenance management software, are desirable.