Benefits:

401(k)

401(k) matching

Health insurance

Paid time off

Position: Chief Engineer

Location: Downtown New Orleans Schedule: Monday–Friday; on-call and after-hours support as needed

Job Summary

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the overall management, performance, and reliability of all building systems within a commercial office property. Unlike a Stationary Engineer role, this position provides leadership, direction, and oversight of engineering operations, staff, vendors, and long-term maintenance planning. The Chief Engineer ensures systems are not only operational, but optimized, compliant, and aligned with property goals and budgets.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage all engineering and maintenance personnel, including scheduling, training, and performance management

Oversee the operation and efficiency of HVAC, chiller systems, electrical, and plumbing infrastructure

Develop, implement, and enforce preventive and predictive maintenance programs

Serve as the primary decision-maker for complex repairs, system failures, and emergency response

Manage and approve work performed by third-party vendors and contractors

Prepare and manage operating budgets, including forecasting and capital expenditures

Identify and recommend equipment upgrades, replacements, and energy efficiency improvements

Ensure full compliance with OSHA, local codes, and safety standards

Maintain high-level oversight of logs, reporting, and regulatory documentation

Act as the main point of contact for property management regarding all engineering matters

Establish and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the engineering team

Qualifications

Must have Valid Stationary Engineer license

5+ years of commercial building engineering experience, including leadership/supervisory responsibility

Advanced knowledge of central plant operations, including large-scale chiller systems

Demonstrated ability to manage teams, vendors, and budgets

Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to oversee—not just perform—repairs

Experience with building automation systems (BAS) and energy management preferred

Key Differences from Stationary Engineer Role

Leadership vs. Execution: Chief Engineer directs the team; Stationary Engineer performs assigned maintenance and repairs

Accountability: Chief Engineer is responsible for overall building performance and compliance, not just individual tasks

Decision-Making Authority: Chief Engineer makes final calls on repairs, vendors, and capital improvements

Strategic Focus: Chief Engineer handles budgeting, planning, and system optimization; Stationary Engineer focuses on day-to-day operations

Supervision: Chief Engineer manages staff; Stationary Engineer typically works independently or under supervision

Vendor & Client Interaction: Chief Engineer interfaces regularly with ownership/management and contractors

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience

Health insurance

Paid time off (PTO)

Company-provided phone