Director of Engineering - Building Engineering & Maintenance

Position Overview

The Director of Engineering – Building Engineering & Maintenance is a senior leadership role based in Northern California responsible for providing strategic direction and operational oversight for all building engineering and maintenance functions across a large portfolio of properties. This role leads a geographically distributed team of engineering managers, building engineers, and technicians to ensure safe, reliable, compliant, and cost-effective operation of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, life safety, and building automation systems. It combines executive-level strategy with hands-on technical leadership, establishing engineering standards, driving operational excellence, mitigating risk, and protecting asset value across both owned and third-party managed properties.

Compensation: $165,000–$200,000 (base, DOE)

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the vision, strategy, and operating standards for the engineering function across all markets.
• Lead long-range capital planning in collaboration with construction and asset management teams while serving as a senior technical advisor.
• Oversee daily engineering operations, standardize maintenance programs, and ensure system reliability, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Mentor and develop engineering managers and technical staff, establishing staffing models and succession planning.
• Develop and manage engineering budgets, control operating expenses, and communicate capital and operating needs to executive leadership.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience).
• 8+ years of progressive experience in commercial building engineering or facilities management.
• 4+ years in a senior leadership role overseeing engineering operations.
• Deep knowledge of commercial MEP systems, life safety systems, and building automation, with a strong understanding of applicable codes and regulations.
• Proven experience in capital planning, project delivery, and asset lifecycle management, plus proficiency with CMMS platforms and Microsoft Office.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE), CFM, LEED AP, EPA 608 Universal, NFPA 70e, or OSHA certifications.
• Strong financial and business acumen with proven leadership in managing large, diverse teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation package as noted above.
• Comprehensive benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, HSA, EAP, Life/AD&D, STD, Commuter FSA, and state mandated benefits.
• Transparent pay practices and adherence to state and local regulations.
• Equal Opportunity Employment with a commitment to fair hiring practices.