Chief Engineer; Luxury Residences Reston, VA

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the seamless operation, maintenance, and presentation of all building systems within a luxury high‑residence. This role is critical to delivering a five‑star living experience by ensuring reliability, discretion, and excellence in all engineering services. #weshowup

The Chief Engineer leads the engineering team, oversees complex building systems, manages high‑value capital projects, and works closely with property management and the Board of Directors to protect and enhance the asset’s value. This individual is expected to operate at a high level of professionalism, technical expertise, and resident service.

• Ensure all building systems operate at peak efficiency with zero disruption to residents whenever possible.
• Deliver a “white‑glove” level of service—responding promptly, professionally, and discreetly to resident concerns.
• Maintain immaculate condition and presentation of all mechanical rooms, back‑of‑house areas, and service corridors.
• Coordinate work to minimise noise, inconvenience, and visual impact in occupied residences.

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing engineering team with a service‑first mindset.
• Establish clear performance standards aligned with luxury hospitality‑level expectations.
• Maintain staffing schedules that ensure 24/7 coverage and rapid response capability.
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

• Oversee operation, maintenance, and optimisation of:
• HVAC systems, including chillers, boilers, cooling towers, and VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) systems
• Building Automation Systems (BAS) and energy‑management platforms
• Electrical distribution, switch gear, and emergency generators
• Domestic water, booster pumps, and water‑treatment systems
• Fire/life‑safety systems and smoke control systems
• Elevators and vertical transportation systems
• Utilise data and analytics to proactively identify system inefficiencies and implement improvements.

• Develop and execute long‑term capital plans to maintain Class A/luxury standards.
• Lead major projects such as system upgrades, façade restoration, and amenity enhancements.
• Partner with consultants, engineers, and ownership on design, budgeting, and execution.
• Ensure all upgrades align with luxury market expectations and property positioning.
• Manage high‑quality, vetted vendors who meet luxury service standards.
• Oversee all contracted work to ensure exceptional craftsmanship and minimal disruption.
• Enforce strict compliance with insurance, safety, and operational protocols.
• Prepare and manage the engineering operating and capital budgets.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality or resident experience.
• Support reserve studies and long‑term financial planning.
• Maintain full compliance with all applicable codes, inspections, and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure flawless execution of life‑safety system testing and documentation.

• High School Diploma
• Current Driver’s License
• EPA Section 608 Universal Certification
• Master of Electrician and Plumbing preferred
• At least 10 years of residential maintenance experience
• At least 8 years building facilities operation experience in a luxury apartment
• Minimum of 5 years supervisory experience as senior engineer/technician or equivalent position in facilities management
• Building automation systems experience required
• Extensive knowledge of HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems in multi‑family housing and mid to large‑size facility operations
• Exposure to budgeting and basic accounting
• Understands elevator maintenance, fire sprinkler/alarm systems and high‑rise buildings
• Proficient with computers and relevant computer programs
• General understanding and use of Microsoft Office, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Experience with Yardi preferred
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Strong problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work after hours, as needed including on‑call rotation
• Must be highly credible and trustworthy, and operate with a high degree of integrity
• Must hold…