Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer

What this job involves:

As Chief Engineer at JLL, you'll serve as the technical leader and strategic advisor for a complex commercial property or portfolio, ensuring all building systems operate at peak performance while maintaining the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and tenant satisfaction. You'll oversee the planning, execution, and management of preventive and corrective maintenance programs, capital improvement projects, and energy management initiatives that directly impact operational excellence. This role requires a deep understanding of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and life safety systems, combined with strong leadership capabilities to guide engineering teams and coordinate with vendors, contractors, and property management stakeholders. We embrace more innovative ways of working and prioritize opportunities to strengthen and advance your career, giving you the platform to implement cutting-edge building technologies and sustainable practices. You'll be responsible for developing and managing operating budgets, ensuring regulatory compliance, and leading emergency response protocols while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. At JLL, we are collectively shaping a brighter way — for our clients, ourselves and our fellow employees — and as Chief Engineer, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering exceptional property performance that creates lasting value.

What your day-to-day will look like:

• Lead and mentor a team of engineers and technicians, fostering professional development and ensuring high performance standards across all technical operations

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of all building systems including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire/life safety, building automation, and vertical transportation equipment

• Develop and implement comprehensive preventive maintenance programs that maximize equipment lifespan, minimize downtime, and optimize energy efficiency

• Manage capital improvement projects from conception through completion, including scope development, contractor selection, budget management, and quality assurance

• Conduct regular building inspections and system assessments to identify potential issues, ensure code compliance, and maintain optimal operating conditions

• Collaborate with property management teams to address tenant service requests promptly and maintain high levels of tenant satisfaction

• Prepare and manage engineering department budgets, tracking expenses, forecasting needs, and identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality

• Maintain accurate documentation of all maintenance activities, equipment records, warranties, and regulatory compliance certifications

• Serve as primary point of contact during emergency situations, coordinating response efforts and implementing business continuity protocols

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or related technical field, or equivalent combination of education and experience

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in building engineering and facilities management, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role

• Expert-level knowledge of commercial building systems including HVAC, electrical distribution, plumbing, fire protection, and building automation systems

• Valid Chief Engineer license, stationary engineer license, or equivalent certification as required by local jurisdiction

• Demonstrated experience managing operating budgets and capital improvement projects in commercial real estate environments

• Strong understanding of relevant building codes, safety regulations, OSHA standards, and environmental compliance requirements

• Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams while fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment

• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose complex technical issues and implement effective solutions under pressure

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively interact with tenants, vendors, contractors, and executive stakeholders

Preferred qualifications:

• Advanced certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), or Building Operator Certification (BOC)

• LEED certification or demonstrated experience implementing sustainability initiatives and energy conservation programs

• Experience with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and building automation platforms

• Background managing engineering operations in LEED-certified or Energy Star-rated properties

• Project management certification (PMP) or demonstrated experience leading large-scale capital projects

• Knowledge of emerging building technologies, IoT applications, and smart building systems