Senior HVAC - Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer

Location: Kansas City, KS - Robert J. Dole Federal Courthouse – 500 State Ave, Kansas City, KS 66101
Reports To: Senior Project Manager (PM)
Position Type: Full-Time,

Certification Requirement: NATE Certification required within first 6 months of employment

Position Overview

The Chief Engineer serves as the senior on-site technical lead responsible for the daily operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of mechanical, electrical, and building systems for a high-profile GSA courthouse facility in Memphis, TN. This is a hands-on, tools-in-hand working position, providing both technical execution and leadership to maintenance staff while ensuring compliance with GSA performance standards, safety requirements, and contract deliverables.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Operations & Maintenance

• Perform scheduled and unscheduled maintenance on HVAC systems, boilers, chillers, pumps, air handlers, VAVs, and related building equipment.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, and control system issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Conduct operational inspections, system monitoring, and performance adjustments to ensure optimal building functionality and energy efficiency.
• Oversee and perform preventive maintenance aligned with GSA PWS requirements and industry best practices.
• Maintain and troubleshoot Building Automation Systems (BAS) and ensure proper operation of HVAC controls.

Leadership & Coordination

• Act as the lead working engineer, setting the technical standard for the on-site maintenance team.
• Coordinate daily task assignments, technical priorities, and workflow management with the Project Manager.
• Provide field guidance, mentorship, and technical support to junior technicians.
• Assist the PM with planning major repairs, shutdowns, inspections, or contractor support tasks.

Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure full compliance with GSA standards, safety requirements (OSHA, NFPA), and environmental regulations.
• Complete and manage equipment logs, service tickets, preventive maintenance records, and asset documentation.
• Support quality assurance, reporting, and audit readiness as required under the contract.
• Maintain accurate inventory of tools, parts, and critical spares.

Customer & Stakeholder Interaction

• Serve as a professional on-site technical representative when interfacing with GSA personnel, tenants, inspectors, and third-party vendors.
• Communicate effectively with PM and government stakeholders to address issues, advisories, and operational impacts.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 5–7 years of hands-on experience in commercial or government facility mechanical systems (HVAC emphasis).
• Strong working knowledge of chillers, boilers, pumps, refrigeration cycles, VFDs, and BAS/controls.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and repair complex HVAC and building systems.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical/electrical drawings, O&M manuals, and technical documentation.
• Experience with GSA, federal buildings, or mission-critical facilities preferred.
• Strong communication, leadership, and customer-service skills.
• Must pass federal suitability/background check required for courthouse access.

Certification & Licensing Requirements

• NATE Certification required within the first 6 months of employment.
• EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification required (or obtained prior to start).
• Additional trade licenses (electrical, steam, or mechanical) are a plus.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks associated with mechanical maintenance.
• Ability to climb ladders, work in mechanical rooms, rooftops, confined spaces, and varying environments.
• Ability to respond to after-hours emergencies as needed.

Key Attributes for Success

• Strong initiative and ownership of building operations
• High technical aptitude and problem-solving capability
• Reliability, professionalism, and strong communication
• Commitment to safety, compliance, and contract standards
• Ability to balance hands-on work with leadership responsibilities