Utility Engineer

Utility Building Engineer – Commercial Property

Location: Houston, Texas

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

● Support the daily operation and maintenance of a commercial property’s building systems, including the closed-loop chilled-water system, pneumatic HVAC controls, lighting, plumbing, and basic electrical equipment.

● Perform routine building rounds, log operating conditions, and identify abnormal equipment readings, leaks, unusual noises, comfort issues, and other deficiencies.

● Assist with the operation, inspection, preventative maintenance, and minor repair of building systems.

● Inspect and maintain pneumatic HVAC components, including thermostats, dampers, actuators, control air tubing, air compressors, dryers, and pressure-control devices. Identify and report air leaks or control problems.

● Complete scheduled preventative maintenance tasks such as changing filters, replacing belts, lubricating equipment, cleaning mechanical components, checking drains, and inspecting plumbing and lighting systems.

● Respond promptly and professionally to tenant comfort requests, service calls, and other building-related concerns. Escalate complex problems to management when appropriate.

● Perform basic repairs, including replacing lamps and ballasts or drivers, repairing minor plumbing issues, and completing general building maintenance tasks within the employee’s training and authorization.

● Monitor equipment through the building automation or control system, where applicable, and report alarms or unusual operating conditions.

● Create, update, and close work orders accurately. Maintain operating logs, inspection records, equipment readings, and preventative maintenance documentation.

● Escort and monitor contractors and vendors working at the property. Report work quality, safety concerns, and incomplete items to management.

● Follow all company and property safety procedures, including lockout/tagout, hazard communication, ladder safety, and the proper use of personal protective equipment.

● Maintain mechanical rooms, engineering shops, roofs, and equipment areas in a clean, safe, and orderly condition.

● Communicate professionally with tenants, property management, vendors, contractors, teammates, and client representatives.

● Participate in after-hours, and emergency coverage as scheduled.

● Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

● High school diploma or GED required.

● Minimum three years of building maintenance, commercial facilities, HVAC, mechanical, or related trade experience preferred. Relevant technical-school or trade-program experience may be considered.

● NFPA 70E Certification required within 90 days of hire. The employer may provide study materials and reimburse the examination fee upon successful completion.

● EPA Section 608 certification preferred.

● Basic understanding of commercial HVAC systems and mechanical equipment required.

● Experience with closed-loop chilled-water systems and pneumatic HVAC controls is preferred. A willingness and ability to learn these systems is required.

● Basic knowledge of plumbing, lighting, electrical safety, and general building maintenance.

● Familiarity with fire and life-safety equipment and emergency procedures.

● Ability to read equipment manuals, gauges, operating logs, work orders, and basic mechanical or electrical drawings.

● Ability to use hand tools, power tools, meters, and other maintenance equipment safely and properly.

● Basic computer and smartphone skills, including the ability to use email, work-order applications, and facility-management systems.

● Strong customer-service and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with tenants, vendors, contractors, property management, and engineering team members.

● Ability to work independently on routine assignments and follow direction when assisting with more complex work.

● Ability to respond to after-hours emergencies and work occasional weekends or holidays as required.

● Must obtain and maintain any licenses or certifications required for assigned work under applicable federal, Texas, or City of Houston requirements.

● Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English sufficiently to follow safety procedures, understand equipment manuals, complete work orders, and prepare operating reports.

Physical and Working Conditions

● Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and to frequently bend, stoop, crouch, kneel, reach, and climb stairs or ladders.

● Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

● Ability to work safely in mechanical rooms, on rooftops, in confined equipment areas, and in indoor and outdoor conditions typical of Houston, including heat, humidity, noise, and exposure to weather.

● Ability to wear required personal protective equipment and safely access equipment located above ceilings or in other restricted areas.