Chief Engineer, Facilities Critical Environments

JLL; Round Rock (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking a Chief Engineer for Facilities Critical Environments in Round Rock, TX. This role focuses on the safe operation of critical systems, including HVAC and electrical systems. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in managing critical environments, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and optimizing system performance. Responsibilities include maintenance, energy management, and vendor coordination. Join a team committed to innovation and excellence in real estate technology.

Qualifications

• 7-10 years of experience in critical systems engineering.
• Proven experience as a chiller plant operator.
• Familiarity with codes and standards related to critical environments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of critical systems.
• Implement energy-saving measures for critical systems.
• Prepare critical systems for emergency situations.

Skills

Problem Solving

Communication

Organizational Skills

Education

High School diploma or GED equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office

Corrigo

ServiceNow

Job description

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world-class services, advisory, and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers, and find a place where they belong. Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades, or technology, or you're looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

Job Summary

The Chief Engineer, Facilities Critical Environments is responsible for supporting the Engineering Manager and Regional Operations Manager in the safe, efficient operation of critical systems, including UPS systems, electrical systems, generators, HVAC, and mechanical infrastructure outside of data centers. This role requires an experienced chiller plant operator familiar with both chilled-water and air-cooled systems, with a strong understanding of performance optimization, efficiency, and lifecycle management. The Chief Engineer will also provide specialized support for data center operations as needed. This position emphasizes the reliability and longevity of critical systems, compliance with safety and environmental standards, and minimizing operational disruptions. The Chief Engineer will assist in protecting the value of the owner's assets and enhancing system performance, particularly in mission-critical environments.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

1. Critical Systems Operations & Maintenance
2. Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of critical systems, including UPS, generators, electrical, HVAC (including chilled-water and air-cooled chiller systems), and fire life support systems, ensuring optimal functionality and performance.
3. Perform emergency testing and repairs of critical systems to minimize downtime and disruptions.
4. Monitor and manage Building Management Systems (BMS) for alarms and performance metrics, ensuring timely responses to any abnormalities.

Lab Support

1. Maintain and ensure optimal performance of environmental controls for lab spaces, such as clean rooms, fume hoods, and temperature/humidity-controlled environments.
2. Collaborate with lab managers to plan and execute maintenance or upgrades with minimal disruption to operations.
3. Ensure lab systems meet regulatory compliance and safety standards, with an emphasis on redundancy and reliability.

Energy Management & Optimization

1. Implement energy-saving measures for critical systems and lab environments, leveraging operational efficiencies.
2. Conduct energy audits and recommend improvements aligned with sustainability goals.
3. Support integration of energy conservation measures into critical systems.

Emergency Preparedness & Response

1. Prepare critical systems, including generators and redundancies, for emergency situations, ensuring operational readiness.
2. Respond to emergencies, such as equipment failures or environmental alarms, to restore functionality promptly.
3. Support the development and execution of fire drills, emergency simulations, and contingency plans for labs and overall critical infrastructure.

Compliance & Documentation

1. Maintain compliance with safety, environmental, and operational codes and regulations for critical systems including assets that support labs.
2. Document maintenance activities, testing results, and system performance metrics.
3. Assist with internal and external audits related to critical environments and lab support systems including JCAP, EHS, HSSE, and Corrigo audits.

Vendor & Contractor Coordination

1. Collaborate with vendors and contractors to ensure scope, safety protocols, and quality standards are met for critical systems and lab-related projects.
2. Provide technical oversight and guidance for contracted work.
3. Evaluate vendor performance and recommend service delivery improvements.

Asset Management

1. Maintain an accurate inventory of tools, equipment, and spare parts for critical systems.
2. Track lifecycle performance and recommend upgrades or replacements to enhance reliability.
3. Support the implementation of asset management, including tagging and inventory tracking for critical systems assets.

Project Support

1. Provide technical input for projects affecting critical environments and labs, including upgrades, capacity expansions, and new installations.
2. Review engineering drawings and specifications for alignment with operational requirements.
3. Assist with scheduling and coordination of system downtime to minimize impact on building occupants, labs, data centers, etc.

Communication & Reporting

1. Regularly report on system performance, incidents, and maintenance schedules to the Engineering Manager.
2. Communicate regularly and effectively with FM team, data center teams, building occupants, and other stakeholders regarding system activities and updates.
3. Prepare detailed incident reports and recommendations for continuous improvement.

Training & Knowledge Sharing

1. Stay updated on advancements in critical systems technology.
2. Share knowledge and best practices with peers and support technical training for team members when necessary.
3. Participate in ongoing training to align skills with emerging needs in critical systems.

Safety & Risk Management

1. Identify and mitigate risks to critical systems and equipment that support lab environments through proactive inspections and maintenance.
2. Ensure compliance with JLL and client safety protocols for all work performed.
3. Contribute to the development of safety plans for high-risk operations in critical environments and labs.

Minimum Requirements

Education & Experience

• High School diploma or GED equivalent
• 7-10 years of experience in critical systems engineering, including labs and data center environments
• Proven experience as a chiller plant operator, with demonstrated expertise in both chilled-water and air-cooled chiller systems
• Military experience (e.g., Army Prime Power, Navy ET/Nuke, Air Force HVAC/Power Pro Electrician) is a plus
• Strong knowledge of critical systems such as UPS, generators, HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, and lab-specific systems
• Familiarity with codes and standards related to critical environments, labs, and data centers

Skills & Abilities

• Proficient in reading technical documents and regulatory codes
• Capable of writing reports, correspondence, and clear communication with stakeholders
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and other relevant software
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills for technical challenges

Preferred Requirements

• Experience with Corrigo and ServiceNow platforms

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk, climb, kneel, lift, and work overhead regularly
• Ability to enter permitted and non-permitted confined spaces
• Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs. and climbing ladders up to 30 feet
• Available to work holidays and respond to site emergencies

Location:

On-site - Round Rock, TX

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet all the requirements. We're interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!