Senior HVAC - Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer Location: Kansas City, KS - Robert J. Dole Federal Courthouse – 500 State Ave, Kansas City, KS 66101Reports To: Senior Project Manager (PM)Position Type: Full-Time,Certification Requirement: NATE Certification required within first 6 months of employmentPosition OverviewThe 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 ResponsibilitiesTechnical Operations & MaintenancePerform 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 & CoordinationAct 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 & DocumentationEnsure 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 InteractionServe 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 QualificationsMinimum 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 RequirementsNATE 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 RequirementsAbility 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 SuccessStrong initiative and ownership of building operationsHigh technical aptitude and problem-solving capabilityReliability, professionalism, and strong communicationCommitment to safety, compliance, and contract standardsAbility to balance hands-on work with leadership responsibilities

Salary : $95,000 - $120,000