Chief Engineer

What this job involves - The Chief Engineer is a high-stakes on-site leadership role responsible for serving as the technical anchor for the engineering team and the broader IFM family. This position requires a "leader-as-expert" who can stabilize a developing team, oversee the safe and efficient operation of diverse infrastructure systems—from modern labs to legacy campus buildings—and act as a polished advisor to client leadership.Essential Functions & ResponsibilitiesResponsibilities:Lead by example and create a team culture where people own their work. Set a high bar for quality and professionalism conduct to build department-wide credibility. Analyze work order trends and CMMS data to identify systemic equipment failures and drive labor efficiency across high-volume workflows rather than relying on reactive repairsLead the diagnosis and resolution of complex mechanical and pneumatic issues across a diverse campus portfolio, including modern labs and legacy infrastructure, to ensure mission-critical uptimeDevelop and implement preventive, predictive, and reactive maintenance procedures that prioritize long-term asset healthManage the engineering budget and lead the capital improvement planning process with a focus on ROI and risk mitigationSelect, schedule, and supervise contractors, holding them to strict performance and safety standardsRespond decisively to emergencies and service calls, making high-stakes technical decisions independently under pressureLead technical, safety, and operational process training programs to rapidly upskill the engineering teamAct as the primary technical advisor in client-facing meetings, translating complex infrastructure risks and engineering data into clear business strategiesDemonstrate the ability to lead difficult conversations and maintain a polished professional presence for senior-level stakeholder engagement Qualifications:7+ years of related experience, especially as a Chief Engineer, Assistant Chief Engineer, or similarPeople management experience (leading a team)Universal CFC EPA certificationProficiency in Google Workspace (Docs, Gmail, Sheets, Meet) and modern CMMS platformPreferred Qualifications:Trade school education, union training, military service, or college degreeExperience managing "critical environments" (labs, manufacturing, or R&D facilities)Knowledge of HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical systems, and water treatmentFamiliarity with energy management, sustainability practices, and lifecycle cost analysisProject management skillsExperience in data-driven maintenance strategies, including the use of analytics to optimize labor allocation and predict equipment failurePhysical Requirements:Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and use ladders up to 30 feet tallPhysical capability for frequent climbing, bending, kneeling, lifting, and driving