Chief Engineer

1440 Multiversity; Scotts Valley (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A nonprofit learning destination in California seeks a Chief Engineer to manage and enhance the maintenance of its redwood campus. This hands-on leader will oversee the repair and upkeep of facilities, ensuring guest comfort and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical skills in HVAC and other systems, along with leadership experience. Join a purpose-driven team and contribute to a mission of wellness and community impact.

Qualifications

• Experience in multi-building facility management.
• Proficiency in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and general systems maintenance.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee maintenance and repair of buildings and infrastructure.
• Lead and mentor maintenance and grounds teams.
• Manage projects and vendors, ensuring timely work order resolution.
• Support sustainability efforts through resource conservation.
• Monitor facility performance and identify areas for improvement.

Skills

HVAC

Electrical systems

Plumbing

Carpentry

Leadership

Project management

Job description

Nestled in the redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains, 1440 Multiversity is a nonprofit philanthropic learning destination where every booking serves our community and advances our mission of Creating Hope for Living Well. Through learning experiences and programs we help people Live, Lead, Love, Work, and Wonder more fully.

At 1440, hospitality is more than service - it's Deep Hospitality, an authentic expression of care and connection. Every team member contributes to an environment where guests, colleagues, and partners feel genuinely supported, valued, and inspired.

The Chief Engineer is a hands-on, mission-aligned leader responsible for maintaining, improving, and enhancing the physical heart of our 75-acre redwood campus. This role ensures that every building, system, and outdoor space functions seamlessly - creating an environment where learning and wellbeing can thrive.

Working closely with the Director of Facilities, the Chief Engineer provides leadership for maintenance and grounds operations, supervises technical projects, and supports sustainability and capital improvement initiatives. This position requires both mechanical expertise and people-centered leadership - someone who can troubleshoot a complex HVAC system one moment and mentor a new team member the next.

What You\'ll Do

• Oversee maintenance and repair of buildings, systems, and infrastructure to ensure reliability and guest comfort.
• Lead and mentor the maintenance and grounds teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and pride in workmanship.
• Manage projects and vendors, coordinate preventive maintenance, and ensure timely resolution of work orders.
• Support campus sustainability efforts through energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste-reduction initiatives.
• Monitor facility performance, equipment inventory, and utilities use, identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Partner with other departments to ensure all work aligns with program schedules and guest experiences.
• Contribute to the strategic care and longevity of the 1440 campus, preserving its beauty and purpose for generations to come.

Who You Are

• A technically skilled and service-minded leader with experience in multi-building facility management.
• Proficient in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and general systems maintenance.
• Adept at leading teams, managing projects, and balancing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative and communicative, with a genuine appreciation for mission-driven work and continuous improvement.
• Someone who thrives in nature, enjoys hands-on problem-solving, and believes in care as a daily practice.

Join a team united by purpose and inspired by possibility - where your work helps sustain a campus dedicated to learning, wellness, and community impact.