Critical Environment Chief Engineer

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way
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Our people at JLL 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 to 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.

What this job involves

The Chief Data Center Engineer provides critical leadership and technical oversight for data center operations, managing the engineering team to ensure safe, efficient operation of all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. This role combines hands-on technical expertise with supervisory responsibilities, focusing on maintaining optimal system performance, protecting asset value, extending equipment lifecycle, and delivering exceptional service to tenants while maintaining strict adherence to data center codes and standards.

Your day-to-day tasks will include:

• Supervising and scheduling the engineering team, managing accurate time records, tracking overtime within budget parameters, and ensuring proper training in energy management and emergency procedures
• Conducting monthly inspections of data center facilities and equipment, preparing work orders for repairs, requisitioning replacement equipment, and reporting deficiencies with action plans to senior leadership
• Maintaining efficient energy management practices through documented daily sequences of operations, collaborating with contractors and design engineers on automated systems integration and energy conservation programs
• Overseeing and performing system tests, recording equipment readings, settings, status changes, and operating occurrences in logbooks, and making recommendations for operational improvements
• Managing procurement processes including competitive bidding for MEP service contracts, obtaining three competitive bids per client guidelines, coordinating vendor quality meetings, and maintaining adequate operating inventory of tools and supplies
• Coordinating tenant construction and capital improvement projects by reviewing blueprints, specifications, and project instructions, while enforcing contractor rules regarding noise, conduct, and property use
• Developing and implementing fire protection programs, safety procedures, and emergency response protocols in cooperation with police, fire, and civil defense authorities

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Frequent walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, lifting, stooping, and working/extending overhead
• Lifting a minimum of 50 lbs regularly
• Climbing stairs and navigating rooftops to access equipment
• Using ladders up to 30 ft and working from heights
• Ability to climb a ladder with a 300-lb weight limit
• Must be able to work different schedules
• Must be able to work holidays
• Must be able to respond to site emergencies
• Must be able to be on the on-call rotation

Required Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Five to seven years of JLL engineering experience or equivalent industry experience in data center environments
• Three to five years of supervisory experience or experience as a Lead Engineer
• Thorough knowledge of data center HVAC, electrical, plumbing, automation, and life safety/fire protection systems
• Thorough understanding of all data center related codes and standards
• Ability to read and interpret technical procedures, governmental regulations, codes, drawings, specifications, and use shop math and measuring/testing instruments
• Demonstrated leadership ability, presentation capabilities, and organizational skills with the capability to professionally interact with tenants and contractors

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous military experience including Army Prime Power, Navy ET/Nuke, or Air Force HVAC/Power Pro Electrician
• Corrigo experience for work order and maintenance management
• Service Now experience for ticketing and workflow management
• Moderate knowledge of manual trades such as carpentry and…