Chief Engineer - Non-Union

The Archdiocese of Chicago, the third largest in the United States, serves more than 2.2 million Catholics in 216 parishes in Cook County and Lake County, a geographic area of 1,411 square miles. The Archdiocese, pastored by Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, has more than 13,000 employees in its systems and ministries, including Catholic Charities, the region's largest nonprofit social service agency.

The Archdiocese also has one of the country's largest seminaries. The Archdiocese's 150+ elementary and secondary schools comprise one of the largest U.S. private school systems. Its schools have received 96 U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon Awards.

The Chief Engineer oversees all engineering, mechanical, HVAC, and building maintenance operations for the Archdiocese of Chicago Pastoral Center buildings. This position leads maintenance staff, manages daily operations, supervises contractors, and ensures proper functioning, safety, and long‑term reliability of all building systems. Responsibilities include strategic planning, budgeting, facilities management, and the implementation of preventative maintenance programs.

• Lead and manage engineering, HVAC, building maintenance, grounds, and general upkeep for all Pastoral Center buildings.
• Supervise engineering apprentices, day porter, and vendor partners.
• Conduct weekly meetings with the Director of Asset Management.
• Collaborate with Security and Asset Management leadership on fire safety, emergency preparedness, and capital planning.

• Perform inspections and walkthroughs of buildings to assess overall conditions.
• Ensure daily building rounds are completed; evaluate HVAC equipment and address concerns.
• Review and assign work orders; follow up to verify completion.
• Maintain cleanliness standards inside and outside the buildings.
• Monitor conference room set‑up schedules and assign tasks as needed.

• Maintain up‑to‑date PM logs and daily operational logs.
• Assign PM tasks for all buildings and oversee maintenance calendars.
• Ensure maintenance areas are organized, and tools are properly inventoried.
• Collect and review inspection checklists and equipment spreadsheets.
• Contact and oversee external contractors when work exceeds the capabilities of internal staff.
• Meet contractors onsite and sign off on completed work.
• Manage outsourced cleaning services to ensure consistent building cleanliness.

• Partner on fire safety program updates, evacuation procedures, and disaster recovery plans.
• Assist with annual budget development and capital improvement plans.

• Perform maintenance as required to maximize equipment life.
• Complete additional responsibilities as assigned.

• High School Diploma required.
• Licensed Stationary Engineer (required).
• CFC Refrigeration License and other required permits/licensing.
• Ongoing continuing education to maintain industry knowledge.

• 10+ years of experience in HVAC maintenance, repair, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or carpentry fields.
• Previous experience as a Chief Engineer or equivalent leadership role.
• Experience leading teams of 5 or more.

• Strong technical expertise in building systems and mechanical operations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and software for equipment/building maintenance.
• Must hold a valid driver’s license and have access to a personal vehicle.
• Understanding and support for Catholic Church teaching, mission, and values.

• Must meet physical demands including walking, standing, climbing, stooping, kneeling, and dexterity‑based tasks.
• Requires strong work ethic, patience, flexibility, fairness, and a proactive mindset.
• Must respond effectively to the physical and operational needs of the buildings.

The Archdiocese of Chicago offers a comprehensive total rewards package to include competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information about our benefit programs is available here.

This position has an annualized salary range of $76,238.41 - $95,298.02. An employee’s pay within the salary range will be based on many factors including but not limited to: relevant education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and organizational needs.

Equal Opportunity Employer
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