Chief Engineer

JLL; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

JLL is seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the operational excellence of critical building systems while protecting asset value. This role blends strategic maintenance leadership with hands-on engineering, managing teams to keep facilities running safely and efficiently.

You will implement reliability-based maintenance programs, drive best practices, oversee contractor activities, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Associate Degree in engineering or equivalent facility management experience.
• U.S. citizenship required for this position.
• 7+ years of progressive facility-related experience in commercial real estate.
• Proven managerial experience leading technical teams and coordinating with contractors.
• Knowledge of HVAC, fluid handling/pumping, filtration, mechanical/electrical systems, and building operations.
• Universal Technician for CFCs certification or ability to obtain within 90 days.
• Operating Engineers license (SMA) or equivalent certification.
• Strong verbal and written communication with clients and staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex mechanical and electrical systems operations and monitor performance.
• Manage building infrastructure and contractor coordination for quality and continuity.
• Champion safety and regulatory compliance across the facility.
• Build and develop high-performing engineering teams through training and mentorship.
• Drive operational efficiency by evaluating maintenance and reliability methodologies.

Skills

Leadership

Client communication

Safety compliance

Facilities operations

HVAC systems

Education

Associate Degree in engineering

Universal Technician for CFCs

Operating Engineers SMA license

Tools

CMMS

Building automation systems

IoT monitoring

Job description

Chief Engineer - JLL

What this job involves:

As Chief Engineer at JLL, you'll lead the operational excellence of critical building systems while protecting and enhancing client asset value. This pivotal role combines strategic maintenance leadership with hands-on engineering expertise, managing teams that keep facilities running safely and efficiently. You'll implement reliability-based maintenance programs, drive operational best practices, and ensure maximum uptime across all building systems. By balancing technical proficiency with exceptional client service, you'll contribute directly to JLL's reputation for delivering world-class facility management solutions that exceed expectations.

What your day-to-day will look like:

• Lead complex mechanical and electrical systems operations. Monitor and maintain refrigeration, HVAC, boilers, pumps, valves, and associated equipment; review operational logs to ensure optimal performance; implement preventive maintenance schedules and oversee HVAC repair programs to maximize system reliability and longevity.
• Manage building infrastructure and contractor coordination. Ensure adequate inventory of tools and supplies through regular checks and strategic stocking; oversee contractor activities within the facility to maintain quality standards and operational continuity; coordinate with vendors and service providers to optimize building performance.
• Champion safety and regulatory compliance. Identify and remediate safety hazards throughout the facility; develop and administer comprehensive safety training programs for building staff; ensure full compliance with all regulatory laws and guidelines governing building infrastructure operations; proactively communicate building discrepancies to management.
• Build and develop high-performing engineering teams. Supervise, hire, train, and mentor engineers and maintenance personnel; provide hands-on instruction in equipment operation, maintenance procedures, and safety protocols; recommend professional development opportunities to expand team capabilities; foster professionalism in work quality, manner, and appearance across all team members.
• Drive operational efficiency and reliability. Continuously evaluate maintenance, operations, and reliability methodologies; implement process improvements to enhance mechanical equipment uptime; define maintenance best practices that increase value-maximizing performance; execute equipment inspection and monitoring programs that protect long-term asset integrity.

Required Qualifications:

• Associate Degree in engineering or equivalent demonstrated work experience in facility management and building systems operation.
• U.S. citizenship is required for this position.
• 7+ years of progressive facility-related experience encompassing customer service excellence, leadership responsibilities, and supervisory duties in commercial real estate or similar environments
• Proven managerial experience leading technical teams, including direct reports and cross-functional coordination with contractors and vendors
• Comprehensive knowledge of maintenance processes with hands-on exposure to HVAC systems, fluid handling/pumping, filtration systems, mechanical/electrical systems, and building operations
• Certification as a Universal Technician for CFCs (or ability to obtain within 90 days of employment)
• Operating Engineers license (SMA) or equivalent state/local engineering certification
• Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills with proven ability to interact professionally with clients, management, and technical staff.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Working proficiency with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) for work order tracking, preventive maintenance scheduling, and asset documentation
• Advanced certifications in HVAC specialties, boiler operations, or building automation systems that enhance technical capabilities beyond baseline requirements
• Experience with energy management initiatives, sustainability programs, or building efficiency optimization projects
• Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS) and integration of IoT monitoring technologies for predictive maintenance applications
• Track record of budget management, cost control initiatives, and vendor contract negotiation in facilities operations
• Background in emergency response protocols, disaster recovery planning, or business continuity management for critical facilities
• Microsoft Office proficiency including Excel for reporting, data analysis, and maintenance metrics tracking