Building Engineer

Job Title: Building Engineer Location: WHA – 5050 W. Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60651 Department: Facilities & Property Management Reports To: Director of Property and Maintenance – Rosie Dawson

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Organizational Overview

Westside Health Authority (WHA) is a nonprofit community development organization dedicated to strengthening the health and well-being of individuals and families on Chicago’s West Side. The Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation is WHA’s flagship site — a multi-use community asset designed to provide workforce development, business incubation, and supportive programming. Maintaining this facility in excellent condition is critical to our mission.

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Position Summary

The Building Engineer is responsible for the daily operation, preventive maintenance, and repair of building systems at the Aspire Center. This includes HVAC, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems, along with facility improvements and emergency response. The ideal candidate is a hands-on problem solver who values community-focused work, takes pride in a clean and operational building, and ensures that WHA’s facilities are safe, functional, and welcoming for staff, tenants, and community members.

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Key Responsibilities

· Monitor, operate, and maintain building systems, including heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, plumbing, and life safety systems.

· Conduct regular inspections and perform preventative maintenance in accordance with schedules and best practices.

· Troubleshoot and respond to facility issues, tenant service requests, and operational emergencies.

· Support minor renovations, repairs, and construction coordination as assigned by the Director of Property and Maintenance.

· Maintain logs, equipment records, and building documentation (e.g., warranties, manuals, MSDS, inspections).

· Collaborate with vendors, contractors, and WHA staff to ensure quality and compliance on maintenance and improvement projects.

· Support the planning and execution of seasonal tasks, including snow removal, exterior grounds care, and climate system transitions.

· Ensure compliance with OSHA, city, and state building codes and participate in any required inspections or audits.

· Conduct and lead weekly team huddles with maintenance and custodial staff to align on projects and priorities.

· Ensure building security by reporting concerns and assisting with access and system monitoring.

· Participate in after-hours on-call rotations or respond to emergency repair needs when necessary.

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Minimum Qualifications

· High school diploma or GED required; technical certification or trades training preferred.

· Minimum 3 years of relevant building operations and maintenance experience in commercial, institutional, or nonprofit settings.

· Hands-on expertise with HVAC systems, boilers, pumps, air handlers, electrical systems, and plumbing.

· EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification preferred (or obtained within 6 months).

· Familiarity with local building codes, safety procedures, and maintenance best practices.

· Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, and electrical schematics.

· Proficiency using tools, diagnostic equipment, and basic computer applications.

· Excellent troubleshooting and communication skills.

· Commitment to WHA’s mission and respect for the diverse community we serve.

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Working Conditions

· Must be able to lift 50 lbs., climb ladders, operate machinery, and access confined spaces as needed.

· Indoor/outdoor work in varying conditions; exposure to mechanical and electrical hazards with proper PPE.

· Standard hours with occasional evening or weekend needs for emergencies or special projects.

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WHA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Westside Health Authority is committed to equity, inclusion, and community leadership. We strongly encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.