Chief Building Engineer

Job Description

Our client is seeking a Senior Chief Engineer for a direct-hire opportunity in the Dallas, Texas area. This is a senior-level, high-visibility leadership role responsible for the strategic oversight, reliability, and performance of all building systems within a large, complex, Class A commercial office building. The ideal candidate is a seasoned engineering leader with deep technical expertise and a proven record managing mission-critical assets.

Company Profile
Our client is a premier commercial real estate owner and operator known for managing landmark office properties in major metropolitan markets. With a strong focus on operational excellence, safety, and tenant experience, the organization offers a professional, fast-paced environment supporting high-profile assets.

Senior Chief Engineer Role
As the Senior Chief Engineer, you will provide overall leadership and direction for all engineering operations, partnering closely with ownership, asset management, and property management to ensure peak system performance, regulatory compliance, and exceptional tenant service.
Direct the operation, maintenance, and performance of all base building systems, including central plant operations (chillers, boilers, cooling towers)
Oversee HVAC systems, electrical distribution, emergency generators, UPS, plumbing, vertical transportation, and building automation systems (BAS)
Ensure uninterrupted operations and 24/7 readiness for a high-profile, multi-tenant office tower
Lead fire/life safety systems, inspections, testing, and regulatory compliance efforts
Maintain detailed operating procedures, maintenance records, and technical documentation
Lead and manage the on-site engineering team, including assistant chief engineers, engineers, and technicians
Establish staffing plans, schedules, training initiatives, and performance expectations
Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and operational excellence
Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including applicable City of Dallas codes
Lead emergency response planning, drills, and incident management
Prepare and manage the engineering operating budget and capital expenditure planning
Track expenses, analyze variances, and identify cost control and energy optimization opportunities
Support capital improvement projects, system upgrades, commissioning, and lifecycle planning
Manage service contracts for mechanical, electrical, vertical transportation, and life-safety systems
Oversee vendor performance, pricing, and safety compliance
Coordinate major repairs, shutdowns, and after-hours work to minimize tenant disruption
Serve as the senior technical resource for ownership, asset management, and property management teams
Support tenant build-outs, special operational requirements, and technical requests
Communicate effectively with tenants, inspectors, consultants, and ownership representatives
Support sustainability initiatives, energy management programs, and ESG objectives
Utilize BAS and operational data to improve efficiency, reliability, and asset longevity

Senior Chief Engineer Background Profile
10'15+ years of progressive experience in commercial building engineering
Prior experience as a Chief Engineer or Senior Chief Engineer in a large Class A or trophy office asset strongly preferred
Demonstrated experience managing central plants and mission-critical building systems
Advanced knowledge of HVAC, electrical distribution, life-safety systems, BAS, and energy management
Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Proven ability to lead, develop, and retain high-performing engineering teams
High school diploma or equivalent required; technical degree preferred
Certifications such as BOMI (SMT/SME), EPA Universal, CFC, or similar strongly preferred
Applicable Texas licenses or certifications a plus
Professional presence appropriate for a flagship commercial asset

Features & Benefits
Competitive compensation package
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) with employer contribution
Paid time off and holidays
Career growth opportunities within a premier commercial real estate portfolio

Job Requirements

HVAC

Additional…