BUILDING MAINTENANCE ENGINEER JOB DESCRIPTION

A building runs on systems most people never notice until something stops working. The Building Maintenance Engineer keeps mechanical, electrical, and plumbing infrastructure functioning within commercial office environments, where OSHA and NFPA compliance standards set the baseline for every repair and inspection. Tenant uptime is the real measure of the work. Responding to both planned preventative maintenance schedules and unplanned reactive callouts, this role demands broad trade competency and the discipline to document every action in a CAFM or tenant work order system.

As the Building Maintenance Engineer, you ensure the continuous, code-compliant operation of facility systems across one or more commercial properties, from routine PPM cycles to after-hours emergency response. You operate within a facilities or engineering team, coordinating with external contractors and reporting to a Chief Engineer or Technical Manager on task completion, deficiency escalation, and asset upkeep.

Career Impact: Hands-on experience across MEP systems in commercial office environments builds the multi-trade depth that distinguishes candidates for senior engineer and facilities supervisor roles in a competitive FM market.

Business Impact: Tenants in commercial buildings depend on uninterrupted electrical, HVAC, and plumbing operation, the engineer who keeps those systems within spec directly determines lease satisfaction and renewal rates for the property.

Growth Opportunity: Exposure to BMS programming, fire and life safety compliance, and trades licensing pathways, including Power Engineering and refrigerant CFC certification, expands both the technical scope and the market value of engineers in this seat over time.

• Perform preventative and reactive maintenance on mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to meet facility uptime targets.
• Conduct scheduled PPM inspections and document all task completion in the CAFM or tenant work order platform.
• Diagnose and resolve breakdowns across HVAC, electrical distribution, fire alarm, and water systems within established response timeframes.
• Oversee and inspect work performed by external contractors and subcontractors during on-site visits.
• Monitor building systems through regular walkthroughs and report deficiencies with recommended remediation to the supervising engineer.
• Maintain compliance with OSHA, NFPA, and applicable fire and life safety codes across all assigned properties.
• Coordinate with security, HR, and emergency response teams during incident preparation and containment activities.
• Support fabric maintenance tasks including carpentry, tiling, painting, and general repairs as required by scope.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related trade discipline, or equivalent work experience.
• 3 or more years of facility operations and maintenance experience in commercial building environments, with demonstrated MEP competency.
• Working knowledge of OSHA standards and NFPA fire and life safety codes applicable to commercial properties.
• Ability to read and interpret basic blueprints, schematics, and equipment manuals to support diagnosis and repair.
• Demonstrated capability to perform manual tasks including working at heights, in confined spaces, and handling heavy materials.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills sufficient for task documentation, contractor coordination, and client-facing interaction.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record, required for multi-site travel.

• Completion of a recognized trade apprenticeship or technical school program in an MEP discipline.
• HVAC refrigerant CFC certification or Power Engineering 4th Class license, or active progress toward either credential.
• Prior experience operating a BMS platform for building system monitoring and programming adjustments.
• Familiarity with CAFM or tenant work order management systems used in commercial real estate operations.

• Planned preventative maintenance completion rate, measured as percentage of PPM tasks closed on schedule each period.
• Mean time to resolution for reactive callouts, tracking how quickly reported faults are returned to normal operation.
• OSHA and NFPA compliance pass rate across facility inspections and safety audits conducted on assigned properties.
• Contractor work inspection sign-off rate, reflecting how consistently external work is reviewed before final acceptance.
• CAFM documentation accuracy rate, measuring completeness and timeliness of task records entered per shift.
• Typical tools: CAFM platforms (commonly Angus, Maximo); BMS systems (commonly Siemens, Honeywell); OSHA/NFPA code reference resources.

• Base Salary Range: $52,000-$72,000 per year, depending on experience and property portfolio size
• Bonus: Annual performance bonus of 3-7%, tied to PM completion rates and tenant satisfaction scores
• Equity: Not typically offered at this level in commercial FM roles
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contribution varies by company size
• PTO: 10-15 days per year, plus standard federal holidays; may include on-call premium days
• Common Perks: Uniform and PPE provided; tool allowance; trade licensing reimbursement; overtime eligible

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Background check completion, including criminal history and driving record verification, is a condition of employment for this role. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process upon request. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.

The Building Maintenance Engineer delivers reactive repairs, multi-site maintenance, and preventative upkeep across commercial environments, ensuring full compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental regulations. Working alongside a broader facilities team, the role enables continuous site performance by combining trade skills in carpentry, plumbing, and flooring with effective client and teammate relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Work efficiently to ensure all works are completed in a safe manner and to current Health, Safety, Environmental regulations.
• Carry out reactive repairs, replacements, improvements, and preventative maintenance.
• Respond quickly and effectively to breakdowns or other engineering problems.
• Accurately use equipment and quality processes required by the business.
• Support the wider team as and when requested.
• Deliver planned and reactive multi-site maintenance and repairs across the region.

Required Qualifications

• Experience within commercial environments, with the ability to carry out a multitude of tasks within core skill sets.
• Experienced carpenter with working knowledge of related tasks, including repairs to doors, tiling, plastering, flooring, and basic plumbing.
• Understanding of safe working practices and Health, Safety, and Environmental regulations.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to maintain productive working relationships with customers, clients, and teammates.
• Accustomed to driving to different sites each day.

Embedded within the building operations team, the Building Maintenance Engineer owns daily upkeep of plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and grounds systems across the full facility. Working closely with the Chief Engineer and contracted vendors, the role sustains a safe, clean, and functional environment for occupants year-round.

Core Functions

• Report to the Chief Engineer and assist in supervising onsite contracted work.
• Conduct daily maintenance operations of building systems including plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and painting.
• Provide seasonal care of grounds including lawn mowing, trimming, snow shoveling, and salting of building entrances.
• Remove trash from common areas and dispose of waste as needed.
• Clean common areas, workspaces, restrooms, and technical equipment rooms.
• Run cables and maintain interior and exterior building lighting and fire safety equipment.
• Follow safety regulations and procedures, including safe operation of vehicles and machinery.

Qualifications & Experience

• High school diploma or GED.
• Broad experience in general maintenance techniques, repair work, and handyman skills.
• Proficient in operating hand tools, power tools, and commercial machinery.
• Basic communication and writing skills.
• Good problem-solving ability.
• Ability to work outdoors year-round and extended hours, including overnight and weekends.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record required.

Reporting to their direct supervisor, the Building Maintenance Engineer shapes day-to-day operation and maintenance of the building's plumbing, electrical, and related systems to keep all equipment in proper working order at all times. Partnering with department staff and guests as needed, the role supports overall property performance by following preventative maintenance schedules and maintaining full compliance with company and safety guidelines.

Primary Duties

• Follow work schedule and complete tasks on time, adhering to clock-in and clock-out procedures.
• Follow all company and safety guidelines and maintain personal sanitary standards.
• Follow PM schedule, document progress, and update supervisor regularly.
• Ensure all building lighting, power, and general building equipment are in good working order.
• Assist other departments with various tasks as needed.
• Interact with and assist guests as needed.

Skills & Qualifications

• 3 or more years of prior experience in a physically demanding field of building maintenance preferred.
• Ability to read and understand basic blueprints, schematics, equipment instructions, and chemical product labels.
• Experience with general maintenance, tools, power equipment, ladders, and hydraulic lifts.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions, document work, and communicate with team members.
• Highly organized, attentive to detail, and able to adhere to all safety rules.
• Positive attitude and professional demeanor.

Sitting at the intersection of facilities management and engineering compliance, the Building Maintenance Engineer leads maintenance, inspection, and repair of electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems across the building. Operating across internal departments including Security, HR, and Incident Response, the role enables high building standards and regulatory adherence by coordinating both internal teams and external technicians.

Duties

• Collaborate with the company's civil engineer on building construction, maintenance, renovation, and repair projects.
• Ensure the building is maintained and serviced to a high standard both externally and internally.
• Take responsibility for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing equipment.
• Carry out inspections to ensure general upkeep and maintenance of the premises.
• Perform routine maintenance and respond to equipment faults, diagnosing breakdown problems.
• Coordinate external technicians and engineers.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety standards and collaborate with Security, HR, and Incident Response Teams.
• Monitor and report all related KPIs.

Education & Experience

• Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering.
• Experience in Facilities Management or Building Maintenance.
• Familiarity with Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems.
• Proactive thinking and a troubleshooting mindset.
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English.

A key member of the facilities maintenance team, the Building Maintenance Engineer builds site reliability by performing routine PPM tasks, reactive fabric and plumbing repairs, and multi-discipline service delivery in accordance with recognised standards. Collaborating across internal trades, subcontractors, and client stakeholders, the role sustains contract performance and a safe working environment across all assigned sites.

Functions

• Undertake routine PPM tasks in accordance with recognised standards and record all reactive tasks on the CAFM system.
• Perform reactive repairs including fabric, plumbing, AHU filter changes, plant cleans, and painting and decorating tasks.
• Escort sub-contractors on site and co-operate with other disciplines for multi-discipline service delivery.
• Support simple FM tasks including basic water testing regimes and upkeep of the water log book.
• Attend site meetings and training sessions as required and respond promptly to verbal and written requests.
• Be part of the callout rota, carry out shift working as required, and support cleaning and litter picking tasks.

Requirements

• Experience within a similar position in a maintenance or building services environment.
• Trade training scheme completion preferred, with the ability to undertake all facets of maintenance and installation within the contract scope.
• Capability to perform manual tasks including manual handling, working at heights, and working in confined spaces.
• Basic IT skills and good verbal and written communication skills.
• Proactive, adaptable, physically fit, and able to build positive relationships with internal and external clients.
• Available to carry out works outside normal hours when required.

Sustained occupant safety and operational continuity depend on the Office Building Maintenance Engineer, who delivers advanced diagnostics and preventive maintenance across HVAC, electrical, plumbing, boiler, and fire alarm systems in a commercial office environment. Serving as a member of the facility emergency and safety inspection team, the role directly enables regulatory compliance, tenant satisfaction, and long-term asset performance.

Accountabilities

• Diagnose complex issues with building mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems using advanced skills.
• Perform maintenance and repairs on HVAC, electrical, plumbing, boilers, chillers, roofing, flooring, doors, windows, and security systems.
• Execute the preventive maintenance program to ensure building machinery meets or exceeds rated life.
• Inspect building systems including fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing to confirm operation within design capabilities.
• Oversee and inspect work performed by outside contractors and respond to after-hours emergency calls on a rotating shift.
• Estimate costs for budgetary purposes and obtain materials necessary to complete maintenance work.
• Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, and MSDS requirements, and serve as a member of the facility emergency and safety inspection team.
• Interact with tenants, customers, co-workers, and contractors, and assist with special events on property.

Experience & Qualifications

• High school diploma required, with trade school or apprenticeship program preferred.
• HVAC-Refrigerant CFC certificate preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of facility maintenance or trade-related experience in commercial buildings.
• Knowledge of OSHA and NFPA standards and fire and life safety requirements.
• Proficient in operating hand tools, power tools, and building systems equipment.
• Angus Tenant Work Order System and BMS platform experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Sound judgment, proactive problem-solving ability, and professional appearance.
• Valid driver's license required

As the Building Maintenance Engineer, this role shapes preventative and corrective maintenance across facility mechanical and electrical systems to meet uptime objectives and full compliance with environmental, health and safety, and fire protection requirements. The facility operations team relies on this work to sustain tenant satisfaction, resolve service requests accurately, and ensure all maintenance activity is documented and escalated through established corporate processes.

Technical Responsibilities

• Perform regular monitoring, inspection, preventative and corrective maintenance on facility mechanical and electrical equipment and systems to meet uptime objectives.
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical and electrical building systems and equipment.
• Respond to routine and on-demand service requests and record resolution data in the service maintenance management database.
• Track, monitor, and report status of maintenance and repair work, initiating approval documentation as required.
• Assist in implementing the PM program, ensuring deficiencies are identified, recorded, escalated, and documented.
• Comply with all corporate and legislated policies related to environmental, health and safety, and fire protection.
• Maintain all assigned tools, submit expenditures on time, and support facility-related projects and tenant satisfaction initiatives.

Background & Experience

• High school diploma plus specialized technical training, trades certification, or licensing required.
• Power Engineering 4th Class, Gasfitter B, Building Operator Certification, and apprentice-level Refrigeration, Electrical, and Plumbing licenses are assets.
• 2 to 4 years of facility operations and maintenance work experience.
• Current knowledge of fire, life, safety, and building codes and standards.
• Strong ability to troubleshoot and repair mechanical and electrical building systems and equipment.
• Service maintenance management database and corporate vehicle operation experience.
• Strong client-service orientation, effective communication skills, self-motivated, professional, and able to work independently and as part of a team.