Chief Maintenance Engineer

Company: Northwestern University
Location: Evanston
Posted on: February 22, 2021

Job Description:

Job Summary: Manages the safe and efficient operation of all building mechanical, plumbing, and control systems including the associated utility distribution networks. This position ensures all campus mechanical (including high pressure steam and chilled water) and plumbing distribution systems, building utilities, environment, and equipment are maintained and operated properly and in compliance with University Sustainability policies and applicable codes. Reviews and evaluates mechanical and plumbing specifications and drawings, as well as installations, ensuring system functionality, maintainability, and accessibility. Provides technical advice to senior management, administration, faculty, staff, and outside consultants relative to design, installation, operation, and repair of campus systems. The role will support the department's mission and values by exhibiting the following: inclusiveness, respect, initiative, collaboration, innovation, and accountability. The incumbent will strive to provide excellent service when performing job responsibilities and will practice safe work procedures, and follow safety rules at all times. Working Conditions: Must be a member of Operating Engineers Local 399, or join after a 90-day probationary period. Physical ability to lift and maneuver heavy weights, climb and descend ladders, and work in hot, cold, cramped and confined quarters. Ability to work safely and at heights on ladders, lifts and scaffolding. Dexterity necessary for the use of tools and manipulation of materials. Must be available and capable of responding to irregularities during evenings and weekends ensuring 24 hour, 7 day per week coverage. Specific Responsibilities :

• Plans, directs, and coordinates maintenance operations of building plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems and ancillary infrastructure to meet the established annual budget;
• Organizes work for planned and unscheduled maintenance tasks directed to building engineer staff for efficient and effective performance while ensuring that adequate staff is available to respond to irregularities and/or emergencies;
• Maintains good order and discipline among personnel consistent with University and departmental policies, initiating commendatory or corrective action as appropriate;
• Prepares written and oral reports on the condition, renewal needs, and routine maintenance of facilities, components, and related activities including post-incident summaries and root cause analyses;
• Identifies and recommends employee safety, technical, soft-skill training, and professional development opportunities as required to ensure optimum unit performance and development;
• Ensures compliance with applicable OSHA requirements and jurisdictional codes;
• Interviews and recommends hiring or promotion of qualified staff, and performs annual employee performance reviews of subordinate personnel;
• Estimates mechanical and plumbing related project work scope, budgets, and timelines;
• Participates in design and construction reviews for capital projects;
• Other duties as assigned;
• Must be available and capable of responding to irregularities during evenings and weekends ensuring 24 hour, 7 day per week coverage. Minimum Qualifications:
  • Minimum of two years of college in stationary, marine, mechanical engineering, or the equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable skills can be acquired;
  • Minimum five years supervisory experience in planning, directing, and coordinating the maintenance of building systems and equipment;
  • City of Chicago Stationary Engineer's License (or obtain within 6 months of start date) and have a minimum of five years high-pressure steam experience;
  • Possess and maintain a valid driver's license recognized by the State of Illinois, provide own reliable transportation, and purchase a University parking permit (as required);
  • Be a member of Operating Engineers Local 399, or join after a satisfactory completion of a 90-day probationary period. Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)
    • Thorough understanding of the steam and refrigeration cycles, and how they relate to building environmental systems and equipment. Knowledgeable of electrical distribution and safe working practices;
    • Excellent written and oral communication skills;
    • Exceptional customer relationship skills and the ability to establish effective working relationships in a diverse environment;
    • Demonstrated leadership skills and ability to effectively motivate work groups toward defined and agreed upon common goals;
    • Comprehensive knowledge of the tools, instruments, methods and standard trade/safety practices pertaining to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing;
    • Ability to perform calculations applicable to field of experience;
    • Working knowledge of BOCA, NFPA, State, Local, and other associated building codes;
    • Ability to review construction drawings and make recommendations that will conform to University standards as well as complying with all pertinent codes;
    • Receptive to feedback, willing to learn, embracing continuous improvement;
    • Helpful, respectful, approachable and team oriented;
    • Ability to build strong working relationships and a positive work environment;
    • Seeks to build collaboration by encouraging trust, mutual respect and shared purpose;
    • Balances listening and talking, speaks and writes clearly and accurately, keeps others informed;
    • Integrates health and safety precautions into daily activities;
    • Works effectively in an environment in which the parameters may change daily; adjusts behavior to meet the needs of different people and situations.
    • Knowledge of Phoenix Controls, Aircuity, Automated Logic, Siemens Insight, Siemens Desigo, JCI Metasys, and Tridium frontends;
    • Successfully uses multiple software program independently. Software may include Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and Outlook, CMMS Systems, and Peoplesoft;
    • Proficiency with mobile devices including iOS. Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)
      • Facilitates open and effective communication, cooperation and teamwork within and outside of one's own team;
      • Plans ahead, manages time well and arrives on time;
      • Familiarity with zone maintenance models;
      • Recommends improvements and opportunities to increase efficiency and reduce costs;
      • Analytical skills including critical thinking, decision making, trouble shooting and problem solving, reading and interpreting technical drawings;
      • Achieves a standard of excellence with work processes and outcomes, honoring University and Department policies and all regulatory requirements.
        Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.

Keywords: Northwestern University, Evanston , Chief Maintenance Engineer, Professions , Evanston, Illinois