Chief Engineer

The Donohoe Companies, Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 129,600 - 158,400; Full time

Job summary

The Donohoe Companies, Inc. is seeking a Chief Engineer for a large facility in Northwest Washington, DC. This key position will oversee daily building operations, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulations. Applicants must have a valid DC 1st Class Engineer License and at least seven years of experience in building maintenance or facility management.

The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership and problem-solving skills to manage an onsite workforce effectively and respond to emergencies effectively.

Qualifications

• Minimum seven years of experience in building maintenance or facility management.
• Experience with high-voltage electrical systems and HVAC operations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily building operations and personnel.
• Perform diagnostics and repairs on building systems.
• Ensure compliance with building codes and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership skills

Problem-solving skills

Technical expertise in HVAC

Knowledge of building codes

Experience with building management systems

Education

DC 1st Class Engineer License

High School diploma or equivalent

Additional technical training or certification

Job description

Complete Building Services (CBS) is seeking a Chief Engineer for a large facility located in Northwest Washington, DC. Reporting directly to the Project Manager, the Chief Engineer will serve as the technical lead for the site and must hold a valid DC First Class Engineer License. This position is responsible for overseeing the onsite CBS workforce, ensuring all personnel perform their duties safely, effectively, and in full compliance with contract requirements.

Hours: 6am - 2pm (Monday - Friday)

Salary: $69.52 per hour

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily building operations, assigning and inspecting work to ensure efficiency, safety, and quality
• Perform diagnostics and repairs on building systems, including HVAC, electrical, and plumbing.
• Ensure proper functionality of high and low‑voltage systems and equipment. Conduct inspections of work performed by subordinates to maximize efficiency and effectiveness
• Promote and enforce safety practices to maintain a secure work environment.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, regulations, and safety standards.
• Provide hands‑on training for new employees in the proper maintenance and repair of building systems.
• Schedule, coordinate, and oversee maintenance and repair projects.
• Price, estimate costs, and process Building Service Requests or Work Orders.
• Review projects to ensure compliance with building standards and client satisfaction.
• Maintain detailed records and prepare reports as required
• Develop operational budgets to provide necessary supplies, services, and resources to maintain building standards.
• Ensure cost‑effective use of resources while maintaining high‑quality building operations.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for after‑hours emergencies, including repairs and construction.
• Remain available 24/7 to address critical building system failures and urgent maintenance issues.
• Create an atmosphere of professionalism and mutual support among employees
• Review work performance of subordinates
• Manage and maintain the completion of the facilities scheduled PMs through the CMMS
• Assist with environmental compliance
• Assist with the compliance of local, state, and federal codes
• Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• DC 1st Class Engineer License required.
• High School diploma or equivalent; additional technical training or certification in building system maintenance.
• Minimum seven (7) years of experience in building maintenance, electrical systems, or facility management.
• Experience with high‑voltage electrical systems, emergency power systems, and HVAC operations.
• Proficiency in building management systems (BMS) and computerized maintenance systems (CMMS).
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal building codes.
• Technical expertise in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and general building maintenance.
• Strong leadership skills to assign work, inspect quality, and train personnel
• Ability to develop and manage maintenance schedules, budgets, and resource planning.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills to diagnose and resolve system issues.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for record‑keeping, reporting, and stakeholder coordination.
• Ability to work under pressure and respond quickly to emergencies and operational disruptions.
• Must be able to walk, stand, climb ladders, and perform hands‑on repairs.
• Must be able to lift heavy objects, work in confined spaces, and operate tools and equipment.
• May be required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including eye protection, gloves, and safety footwear.
• Standard work hours with 24/7 availability for emergency response.
• Occasional weekend or holiday work as required for system maintenance and repairs.

EOE, including disability/veterans

Complete Building Services is a division of The Donohoe Companies, Inc., and has been providing service to the Washington metropolitan area for 60+ years and has grown into one of Washington's largest and most successful building operations, maintenance, and facility management companies.

We are looking for candidates who want to build their careers with us and can deliver on our promise of service and integrity.