Chief Building Engineer – Washington, DC

Professional Alternatives; Washington; On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee development

Benefits package

Safety-focused environment

Job summary

Professional Alternatives is seeking a highly skilled Chief Building Engineer for our client’s Washington, DC-based real estate operations. This in-office role oversees the comprehensive maintenance and operation of building systems, ensuring reliability and tenant service.

The Chief Building Engineer will supervise engineers and maintenance staff, coordinate contractors, and maintain safety compliance while delivering proactive maintenance and detailed documentation in alignment with OSHA, NEC

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in a Building Engineer role or similar.
• HVAC or Operating Engineering certification; DC 3rd Class Steam Engineer License and Universal CFC certification required.
• Strong knowledge of building codes and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and operate building systems (HVAC, water treatment, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, structural components).
• Supervise engineers, maintenance technicians, and porters, ensuring safety and quality.
• Review work orders, coordinate contractors, monitor projects for safety and timely completion.
• Conduct inspections and identify deficiencies for continuous improvement.
• Respond to after-hours emergencies (fires, floods, power outages, severe weather).
• Manage inventory for spare parts and materials to ensure readiness.
• Ensure OSHA, NEC, NFPA and Life Safety code compliance.
• Provide excellent tenant service and address concerns professionally.
• Maintain detailed maintenance records and documentation.
• Support safety policies and procedures from property management.

Skills

Staff supervision

Troubleshooting

Safety compliance

Building codes familiarity

Independent work

Leadership

Education

HVAC/Operating Engineering Certification

DC 3rd Class Steam Engineer License

Universal CFC Certification

Tools

Building Automation Systems

PC/office software

Job description

Job ID#: 42679

Chief Building Engineer

Direct Hire; DOE plus bonus

Washington, DC

In-Office

Our client is a well-established real estate organization committed to maintaining top-tier building operations and providing exceptional service to tenants and stakeholders. They are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Chief Building Engineer to join their team in Washington, DC to oversee the comprehensive maintenance and operation of their building systems.

As a pivotal part of their facilities management team, the Chief Building Engineer will be responsible for ensuring the reliable and efficient functioning of all building infrastructure, supervising technical staff, and maintaining safety and operational standards across the property.

Job Description

• Maintain, repair, and ensure the efficient operation of all building systems including HVAC, water treatment, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and structural components.
• Supervise engineering staff, including Engineers, Maintenance Technicians, and Porters, ensuring quality work and safety compliance.
• Review work orders, coordinate contractor activities, and monitor building projects to ensure timely completion and compliance with safety standards.
• Conduct inspections of all building areas to identify deficiencies and recommend improvements.
• Respond to after-hours emergencies such as fires, flooding, power outages, and severe weather conditions.
• Administer inventory controls for spare parts and materials to optimize operational readiness.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, NEC, NFPA, and Life Safety codes.
• Provide exemplary customer service by responding promptly to tenant requests and addressing concerns professionally.
• Maintain detailed documentation of maintenance activities, inspections, and work performed.
• Support the implementation of policies and safety procedures established by property management.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience as a Building Engineer or in a similar role.
• HVAC or Operating Engineering Technologies certification, with DC 3rd Class Steam Engineer License and Universal CFC certification.
• Proven technical problem-solving skills and ability to operate Building Automation Systems.
• Formal training in HVAC or related fields preferred.
• Strong computer skills and familiarity with safety and building codes.
• Ability to work independently and supervise technical staff effectively.
• Physically capable of performing duties that include lifting up to 50 pounds, climbs, and extended standing or walking.

Perks/Benefits

• Opportunity to work with a reputable organization committed to employee development.
• A comprehensive benefits package geared towards supporting physical and financial well-being.
• A collaborative and safety-focused work environment that values technical excellence and customer service.