Chief Engineer

MalaceHR is seeking an experienced and hands-on Chief Engineer to oversee the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of all building systems within a heavy industrial manufacturing environment. This role combines leadership, technical expertise, maintenance coordination, and client-facing responsibilities.

The ideal candidate will have strong mechanical and electrical knowledge, prior leadership experience, and the ability to manage both administrative and field-based maintenance operations. This is not a desk-only position, the Chief Engineer will actively support plant maintenance activities while leading engineering operations and maintenance staff.

This facility is a lead-acid battery manufacturing plant requiring strict adherence to safety protocols and PPE requirements.

Schedule & Work Environment

• Monday – Friday | 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
• Overtime opportunities available
• Potential on-call emergency response responsibilities
• Free onsite parking
• Secure facility access required
• Heavy industrial manufacturing environment
• PPE required daily, including PAPRs (Powered Air Purifying Respirators)
  • No fit test required
  • No beard restrictions
  • Typically worn 6–7 hours per shift
• Steel toe or composite toe boots required
• Additional PPE provided onsite
• Employees are required to shower and change uniforms before leaving the facility

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the maintenance and continuous operation of all building systems and equipment
• Lead and supervise engineers and maintenance staff, including hiring, coaching, training, and development
• Develop, implement, and maintain preventive, predictive, and reactive maintenance programs
• Manage engineering operations budgets and support capital improvement planning
• Coordinate and oversee contractors, vendors, and service providers
• Respond effectively to facility emergencies and service calls
• Participate in client-facing meetings and communications
• Lead safety initiatives and operational training programs
• Perform and support hands-on maintenance and facility repair tasks as needed
• Utilize Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to manage work orders and maintenance tracking
• Ensure compliance with all facility safety standards and operational procedures
• Support additional duties as assigned by property management and client leadership

Qualifications

• 7+ years of related engineering or facilities maintenance experience
• Prior experience as a Chief Engineer, Assistant Chief Engineer, or similar leadership role preferred
• Previous people management or team leadership experience required
• Strong technical background in:
  • HVAC systems
  • Electrical systems
  • Air compressors
  • Chillers
  • Rooftop units
  • Cooling towers
  • Exhaust fans
  • General mechanical systems
• Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)
• Strong technology aptitude and proficiency with:
  • Microsoft Word
  • Excel
  • Outlook
  • Microsoft Teams
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Comfortable working in a client-facing environment
• Ability to perform hands-on maintenance and general facility repair work
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Comfortable using ladders up to 30 feet
• Ability to frequently bend, climb, kneel, lift, and move throughout the facility
• Trade school, union training, military experience, or college education preferred