Chief Engineer, Building Systems & Operations

Cushman & Wakefield; Bethesda (MD); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Cushman & Wakefield is seeking a Union Chief Engineer to lead daily operations of the engineering team across assigned properties. You will plan, coordinate, and supervise mechanical operations, maintenance, energy management, and staff development in alignment with client expectations and company policies.

The role may include hands-on duties and watches activities; you will ensure 100% compliance with safety programs, budgets, and building system performance, while maintaining strong tenant

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.
• 7+ years of related work experience in a commercial property setting with in-depth knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire/life safety and control systems.
• Vocational/Technical training certificate
• Appropriate license/permit for trade (Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses)
• Universal Technician for CFC’s depending on market licensure requirements
• Financial knowledge for reading budgets, budget variances and basic reporting
• Familiar with Energy Management System (EMS)/programming and fire alarm systems
• Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word
• Working knowledge of building systems, operations, contractual maintenance, construction and related services, and local laws and building codes pertaining to building operations and safety

Responsibilities

• Supervise engineers and maintenance staff including hiring, training, personnel development.
• Ensure performance management, coaching, and development of team members through HR processes and disciplinary actions.
• Coordinate annual scheduling and execution of the Safety Program; ensure 100% site compliance.
• Manage operational accounts, variance reporting, and assist in budgets.
• Track utility use, cost, reporting, sub-metering, and budgeting.
• Conduct regular inspections of building systems and equipment; identify and resolve issues.
• Assist in maintenance/engineering issues; support repairs.
• Develop and maintain preventive maintenance and predictive maintenance programs.
• Develop and maintain building-specific maintenance and safety procedures manuals.
• Coordinate development of an Operations Document Library (plans, drawings, manuals).
• Provide building systems and equipment training; coordinate with outside contractors.
• Oversee fire/life safety, HVAC, electrical, and other systems; stay current with trends.
• Maintain communication with tenants, clients, PM, and vendors.
• Develop specifications and assist in service contracts; manage bids.
• Support rehab projects (HVAC, roofs, plumbing) and coordinate with Property Manager.
• Prepare feasibility studies, budgets, schedules, and contract documents.
• Monitor construction for compliance; coordinate with users and support groups.
• Maintain project files and progress; conduct final inspections and punch lists.

Education

High School Diploma or GED Equivalent

Job description

Cushman & Wakefield is seeking a Union Chief Engineer to lead daily operations of the engineering team across assigned properties. You will plan, coordinate, and supervise mechanical operations, maintenance, energy management, and staff development in alignment with client expectations and company policies.

The role may include hands-on duties and watches activities; you will ensure 100% compliance with safety programs, budgets, and building system performance, while maintaining strong tenant