Utility Engineer

Vibe Office Properties; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Vibe Office Properties in Houston seeks a Utility Building Engineer to operate and maintain a commercial property's building systems, including the chilled-water loop, pneumatic HVAC controls, lighting, plumbing, and basic electrical equipment.

You will perform rounds, logs, preventive maintenance, respond to tenant requests, and support after-hours emergencies while communicating professionally with tenants, vendors, and the engineering team.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum three years of building maintenance or related trade experience preferred.
• Basic understanding of commercial HVAC systems and mechanical equipment required.
• Experience with closed-loop chilled-water systems and pneumatic HVAC controls preferred; willingness to learn required.
• Ability to read equipment manuals, gauges, operating logs, work orders, and basic mechanical or electrical drawings.
• Ability to work independently on routine assignments and respond to after-hours emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Support daily operation and maintenance of building systems including HVAC, lighting, plumbing, and basic electrical equipment.
• Perform routine rounds, log conditions, identify deficiencies.
• Assist with inspection, maintenance, and minor repairs of building systems.
• Inspect pneumatic HVAC components and report leaks or control problems.
• Complete scheduled maintenance such as changing filters and lubricating equipment.
• Respond promptly to tenant comfort requests and service calls.
• Create and close work orders; maintain logs and inspections.
• Escort contractors and monitor safety and work quality.
• Follow safety procedures and wear PPE.

Skills

HVAC knowledge

Reading manuals/drawings

Independent worker

Customer service

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Company Description Vibe® creates warm, inviting, and comfortable environments for tenants and their guests by offering thoughtfully designed office spaces. The company blends amenities, value, and service that are tailored to each location, creating workspaces that feel personalized and welcoming. Vibe® focuses on enhancing day-to-day experiences so people can feel more at ease and productive at work. The core belief is that when people are comfortable and happy, they bring better energy, focus, and performance to their roles.

Role Description: Utility Building Engineer - Commercial Property

Location: Houston, Texas

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the daily operation and maintenance of a commercial property's building systems, including the closed-loop chilled-water system, pneumatic HVAC controls, lighting, plumbing, and basic electrical equipment.
• Perform routine building rounds, log operating conditions, and identify abnormal equipment readings, leaks, unusual noises, comfort issues, and other deficiencies.
• Assist with the operation, inspection, preventative maintenance, and minor repair of building systems.
• Self-Starter. One that works independently.
• Inspect and maintain pneumatic HVAC components, including thermostats, dampers, actuators, control air tubing, air compressors, dryers, and pressure-control devices. Identify and report air leaks or control problems.
• Complete scheduled preventative maintenance tasks such as changing filters, replacing belts, lubricating equipment, cleaning mechanical components, checking drains, and inspecting plumbing and lighting systems.
• Respond promptly and professionally to tenant comfort requests, service calls, and other building-related concerns. Escalate complex problems to management when appropriate.
• Perform basic repairs, including replacing lamps and ballasts or drivers, repairing minor plumbing issues, and completing general building maintenance tasks within the employee's training and authorization.
• Monitor equipment through the building automation or control system, where applicable, and report alarms or unusual operating conditions.
• Create, update, and close work orders accurately. Maintain operating logs, inspection records, equipment readings, and preventative maintenance documentation.
• Escort and monitor contractors and vendors working at the property. Report work quality, safety concerns, and incomplete items to management.
• Follow all company and property safety procedures, including lockout/tagout, hazard communication, ladder safety, and the proper use of personal protective equipment.
• Maintain mechanical rooms, engineering shops, roofs, and equipment areas in a clean, safe, and orderly condition.
• Communicate professionally with tenants, property management, vendors, contractors, teammates, and client representatives.
• Participate in after-hours, and emergency coverage as scheduled.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum three years of building maintenance, commercial facilities, HVAC, mechanical, or related trade experience preferred. Relevant technical school r trade-program experience may be considered.
• Basic understanding of commercial HVAC systems and mechanical equipment required.
• Experience with closed-loop chilled-water systems and pneumatic HVAC controls is preferred. A willingness and ability to learn these systems is required.
• Basic knowledge of plumbing, lighting, electrical safety, and general building maintenance.
• Familiarity with fire and life-safety equipment and emergency procedures.
• Ability to read equipment manuals, gauges, operating logs, work orders, and basic mechanical or electrical drawings.
• Ability to use hand tools, power tools, meters, and other maintenance equipment safely and properly.
• Basic computer and smartphone skills, including the ability to use email, work-order applications, and facility-management systems.
• Strong customer service and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with tenants, vendors, contractors, property management, and engineering team members.
• Ability to work independently on routine assignments and follow direction when assisting with more complex work.
• Ability to respond to after-hours emergencies and work occasional weekends or holidays as required.
• Must obtain and maintain any licenses or certificates required for assigned work under applicable federal, Texas, or City of Houston requirements.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English sufficiently to follow safety procedures, understand equipment manuals, complete work orders, and prepare operating reports.

Physical and Working Conditions

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and to frequently bend, stoop, crouch, kneel, reach, and climb stairs or ladders.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to work safely in mechanical rooms, on rooftops, in confined equipment areas, and in indoor and outdoor conditions typical of Houston, including heat, humidity, noise, and exposure to weather.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment and safely access equipment located above ceilings or in other restricted areas.