Chief Building Engineer
Zing Recruiting, in partnership with a valued public sector client in Fairfax, VA, is seeking an experienced
Chief Building Engineer to oversee operations, maintenance, and performance of complex building systems across a portfolio of occupied commercial and critical facilities. This role serves as the
senior technical authority onsite, responsible for ensuring all facility systems operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulatory and operational standards. The Chief Engineer will lead maintenance teams, coordinate contractors, and support capital projects and system upgrades across multiple buildings.
Chief Building Engineer Summary
Pay: $52.00 – $68.00/hour
Location: Onsite in Fairfax, VA
Type: Direct Hire
As a Chief Building Engineer, You Will - Lead the daily operations and maintenance of building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and life safety systems.
- Serve as the primary technical expert for all building systems and equipment.
- Oversee Building Automation Systems (BAS/EMCS/BEMS) and ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.
- Manage and direct maintenance teams, operating engineers, and contractors across multiple facilities.
- Coordinate and support capital improvement projects, system upgrades, and equipment replacements.
- Review and provide input on:
- Engineering plans
- Submittals and RFIs
- Scope of work and project execution
- Ensure compliance with:
- Building codes
- Safety regulations (OSHA)
- Develop and manage:
- Preventative maintenance programs
- Work order systems (CMMS)
- Equipment lifecycle planning
- Respond to and manage emergency situations and system failures.
Minimum Qualifications - High school diploma or equivalent required
- 8+ years of experience in commercial building engineering or facilities management
- 3+ years of experience in a lead or supervisory role
- Strong hands-on experience with:
- HVAC systems
- Electrical and mechanical equipment
- Building automation systems (BAS/controls)
- Valid driver’s license
Preferred Qualifications - Experience managing large-scale or multi-building facilities (100,000+ sq ft)
- Hands-on experience with BAS platforms such as:
- Siemens
- Trane Tracer
- Johnson Controls
- Honeywell
- Boiler license or equivalent certifications
- Experience working in:
- Government or public sector facilities
- Hospitals, universities, or mission-critical environments
- Experience supporting or coordinating capital projects and contractor work.
Technical Skills - Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic capabilities
- Understanding of:
- HVAC systems and controls
- Electrical distribution systems
- Mechanical systems and utilities
- Familiarity with:
- CMMS systems
- Energy management systems
- Preventative and predictive maintenance practices
Leadership Profile - Hands-on, working leader who leads by example.
- Strong communicator across:
- Facilities staff
- Engineers
- Contractors
- Ability to:
- Prioritize and manage multiple tasks.
- Make real-time decisions in operational environments.
- Maintain accountability across teams.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to access mechanical rooms, rooftops, and confined spaces.
- Ability to climb ladders and stairs and lift up to 25–50 lbs
- Ability to work in varying indoor/outdoor and environmental conditions.
Why This Role
- Opportunity to lead operations across critical government facilities.
- Work within a large, complex, and highly visible portfolio.
- Long-term stability with potential for permanent placement
Zing Recruiting is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.
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