This role serves as a key strategic leader responsible for the overall performance, reliability, and modernization of building engineering systems across a portfolio of multifamily properties. The Vice President of Building Engineering will drive innovation in facility operations, lead large-scale capital projects, and ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards. This position plays a critical role in optimizing asset value through proactive maintenance strategies, lifecycle planning, and the integration of advanced building technologies. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise, a strong leadership background, and a proven ability to manage complex engineering challenges in large-scale residential environments.
Responsibilities
- Lead the development and execution of engineering strategies that support business goals and long-term asset performance.
- Manage departmental budgets, including capital expenditures, preventive maintenance planning, and resource allocation.
- Supervise and develop engineering and maintenance teams, including oversight of building automation systems and work scheduling.
- Direct capital improvement, modernization, and construction projects from concept to completion, ensuring cost efficiency and technical accuracy.
- Oversee major upgrades to building systems, including design changes, reliability assessments, and performance enhancements.
- Assess and recommend improvements for elevator and fire/life safety systems, supporting modernization efforts.
- Identify and evaluate opportunities for system upgrades that align with operational efficiency, budget, and asset longevity.
- Support due diligence during property evaluations by analyzing physical conditions and recommending equipment or process improvements.
- Perform regular inspections of building systems and ensure thorough documentation is maintained.
- Diagnose system issues proactively to streamline repair scheduling and reduce downtime.
- Ensure all facilities meet safety and operational standards through preventive maintenance and timely interventions.
- Maintain accurate equipment records within the CMMS to support lifecycle planning and maintenance tracking.
- Provide 24/7 on-call availability to respond to critical system issues across continuously operating buildings.
- Conduct routine start-up and shut-down inspections to verify system functionality and safety compliance.
- Monitor service request systems to track repair progress and ensure timely resolution.
Requirements
- At least 10 years of experience managing building systems, with leadership roles in Multifamily or Hospitality sectors, focusing on central plant and major mechanical systems.
- Minimum of 5 years managing the development, budgeting, and implementation of capital improvement projects.
- Proven ability to independently lead complex projects from initiation to completion with strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Advanced technical knowledge in at least two of the following: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, fire/life safety, or elevators.
- Comprehensive understanding of building systems including MEP, commissioning, life safety, HVAC, and centralized mechanical operations.
- Experience managing energy systems and addressing environmental concerns such as indoor air quality.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Construction Management with 8+ years of experience, or 15+ years of relevant experience in lieu of degree.
- EPA Universal Certification is required.
- Familiarity with OSHA standards and safety regulations.
Additional Information
- Position is based in Irvine, CA and requires readiness to respond to building system issues at any time due to 24/7 facility operations.
