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Building Operations Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Description Kitchell is seeking a highly skilled Chief Building Engineer to lead building operations for our Houston area based in the Katy / Houston area. This senior-level role is ideal for an ...

Lead Building Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Qualifications * 5 years of experience in Commercial Building Operations, Property Management, or a related industry required. * Strong verbal and written communication skills; prior experience ...

As a CBRE Building Engineer, you will be responsible for monitoring, maintaining and repairing building system operations and the performance of various areas including plumbing, electrical, painting ...

Lead Building Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Qualifications * 5 years of experience in Commercial Building Operations, Property Management, or a related industry required. * Strong verbal and written communication skills; prior experience ...

Lead Building Engineer

Houston, TX

$97K - $128K/yr

Qualifications * 5 years of experience in Commercial Building Operations, Property Management, or a related industry required. * Strong verbal and written communication skills; prior experience ...

Operations Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

Respond to building emergencies including fire alarms, water leaks, and power interruptions ... High school diploma or equivalent required. * 2-5 years commercial building operations experience ...

Operations Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

Respond to building emergencies including fire alarms, water leaks, and power interruptions ... High school diploma or equivalent required. * 2-5 years commercial building operations experience ...

Operations Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

Respond to building emergencies including fire alarms, water leaks, and power interruptions ... High school diploma or equivalent required. * 2-5 years commercial building operations experience ...

Building Automation Technician

Houston, TX · On-site

$40K/yr

Verify proper operation of alarms, annunciation, devices, control panels, field equipment, and ... Work closely with building owners and contractors to resolve system performance issues and optimize ...

Operations Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

Troubleshoot operations failures and re-establish building services under minimal supervision. * Supervise maintenance work as needed. Qualifications Minimum Requirements include: * High school ...

Facilities Operations Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Law Firm Facilities Operations Manager Location: Houston, TX Salary Range: $120,000 - $130,000 ... Manage building access systems, credentials, and physical security processes in partnership with ...

Facilities Operations Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Law Firm Facilities Operations Manager Location: Houston, TX Salary Range: $120,000 - $130,000 ... Manage building access systems, credentials, and physical security processes in partnership with ...

Showing results 41-60

Building Operations information

See Houston, TX salary details

$12

$23

$36

How much do building operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for building operations in Houston, TX is $23.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $26.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is building operations?

Building operations refer to the day-to-day management and maintenance of a building or facility. This includes tasks such as ensuring the building’s systems (like HVAC, plumbing, and electrical) are functioning properly, overseeing cleaning and security, managing repairs, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Building operations professionals work to keep facilities safe, efficient, and comfortable for occupants. Their responsibilities also often include coordinating with vendors and handling emergency situations as they arise.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a building operations professional?

Professionals in Building Operations are responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning and maintenance of facilities. Daily tasks often include monitoring building systems (such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing), conducting routine inspections, addressing maintenance requests, coordinating with vendors or contractors, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. The role also frequently involves collaborating with other departments, such as security and janitorial teams, to maintain a safe and efficient work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in building operations?

To excel in Building Operations, you need solid knowledge of facility maintenance, building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing), and a background in engineering or facilities management. Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), building automation systems, and relevant certifications like HVAC or OSHA are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and attention to detail help professionals effectively manage building issues and coordinate with vendors or tenants. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective building operations.

What is the difference between Building Operations vs Facility Maintenance?

AspectBuilding OperationsFacility Maintenance
CertificationsBuilding Operator Certification (BOC), HVAC licensesHVAC, electrical, plumbing certifications
Work EnvironmentBuilding management, control rooms, on-site supervisionMaintenance workshops, on-site repair, troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageCommercial, industrial, residential buildingsCommercial, industrial facilities, property management
Common Search & ComparisonBuilding Operations vs Facility Maintenance

Building Operations focuses on managing overall building systems, including HVAC, security, and energy efficiency, ensuring smooth daily functioning. Facility Maintenance emphasizes hands-on repair and upkeep of building equipment and infrastructure. While both roles support building performance, Building Operations has a broader management scope, whereas Facility Maintenance is more technical and repair-oriented.

What do building operations do?

Building operations professionals are responsible for maintaining and managing the daily functions of a building, including overseeing maintenance, safety, security, and ensuring efficient building performance. They often coordinate repairs, manage staff, and use tools like building management systems to ensure a safe and functional environment.

What does a building operations do?

A building operations professional manages the daily functions of a building, including maintenance, safety, security, and ensuring efficient building systems. They often coordinate repairs, oversee staff, and use tools like building management systems to maintain a safe and functional environment.

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Building Operations jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Building Operations job openings:

Infographic showing various Building Operations job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,077 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Chief Building Engineer

Houston, TX • On-site

KITCHELL
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description
Kitchell is seeking a highly skilled Chief Building Engineer to lead building operations for our Houston area based in the Katy / Houston area. This senior-level role is ideal for an expert in commercial HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and building systems who is ready to take ownership of facility performance, lead maintenance personnel, and serve as the primary technical authority for a medical office building portfolio. This position offers the opportunity to build a long-term career with one of the most innovative and growth-oriented building companies in the United States.
Overview
The Chief Building Engineer oversees all technical operations, maintenance programs, and building system performance for a medical office building environment. This role requires mastery of HVAC systems, electrical distribution, plumbing infrastructure, and building automation platforms. The Chief Engineer will lead maintenance staff, coordinate vendors, ensure regulatory compliance, and serve as the primary point of contact for clients regarding building operations and technical issues.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Oversight
  • Provides technical leadership and daily direction to building engineers, maintenance technicians, and
  • contracted service providers.
  • Develops preventive and predictive maintenance programs to maximize equipment life and minimize
  • downtime.
  • Oversees all corrective repairs, system upgrades, and major equipment replacements.
  • Ensures all work meets company standards, client expectations, and regulatory requirements.

Technical Operations
  • Performs and supervises advanced diagnostics, repairs, and component replacements on large-scale
  • commercial HVAC systems including air-cooled chillers, boilers, rooftop units, and VAV systems.
  • Manages and optimizes Building Automation Systems (BAS), with emphasis on Johnson Controls Metasys
  • platforms.
  • Oversees electrical and plumbing system performance, including troubleshooting, repairs, and infrastructure
  • improvements.
  • Conducts inspections to ensure compliance with safety codes, contract requirements, and operational
  • standards.

Vendor & Project Management
  • Coordinates specialized contractors for maintenance, repairs, certifications, and capital improvement
  • projects.
  • Reviews and approves vendor work, ensuring quality, safety, and adherence to scope.
  • Manages procurement of materials, supplies, and replacement components.
  • Client & Stakeholder Communication
  • Serves as the primary technical liaison for clients, providing clear explanations of maintenance activities,
  • system performance, and recommended improvements.
  • Responds to escalated client concerns and resolves issues promptly and professionally.
  • Prepares operational reports, maintenance summaries, and compliance documentation.
  • Compliance & Documentation
  • Ensures adherence to federal, state, local, and company safety and operational regulations.
  • Maintains accurate records in the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
  • Supports internal and external audits, providing required documentation and system data.

Emergency Response
  • Leads after-hours emergency response efforts and coordinates all off-hours maintenance activities.
  • Ensures proper communication with management and clients during critical events.

Requirements
Education & Experience
  • High school diploma or GED required; advanced technical coursework or trade certifications strongly preferred.
  • Minimum 7-10 years of hands-on commercial HVAC experience, including installation, maintenance, and
  • repair of large-scale systems.
  • Prior supervisory or lead engineer experience strongly preferred.
  • Universal EPA Certification preferred.
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Experience in medical office buildings or surgery centers is highly desirable.

Knowledge & Skills
  • Expert-level proficiency in HVAC diagnostics, compressor replacements, refrigerant systems, and complex troubleshooting.
  • Strong working knowledge of BAS/BMS platforms, especially Johnson Controls Metasys.
  • Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, electrical schematics, and equipment blueprints.
  • Familiarity with OSHA and other applicable safety regulations.
  • Proficiency with CMMS platforms and standard business software.
  • Strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.

Work Environment
  • Work performed in office, mechanical, and industrial environments.
  • Regular exposure to outdoor conditions, temperature extremes, noise, confined spaces, and
  • mechanical equipment.
  • Occasional loud noise levels.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds.
  • Frequent standing, walking, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and use of tools.
  • Ability to work in tight spaces and at various heights.
  • Driving between job sites as required.

Travel Requirements
Position is site-based in the Katy area of Houston, Texas, with limited regional travel as needed.