Assistant Building Engineer

About Our Organization

Founded in 1968, the Studio Museum in Harlem is the nexus for artists of African descent locally, nationally, and internationally and for work that has been inspired and influenced by Black culture. It is a site for the dynamic exchange of ideas about art and society.

Job Summary

The Assistant Building Engineer will apply preventative maintenance practices on building operation systems and diligently address daily work orders from various museum departments. Reporting to the Lead Building Engineer, the Assistant Building Engineer must be a proficient HVAC specialist responsible for overseeing MEP mechanical trades within the building envelope infrastructure and systems. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a first-class facility where you will handle the efficient operation and maintenance of innovative building management and environmental systems aligned with green building goals and energy-conservation compliance. The role demands a high level of expertise in mechanical MEP building systems, encompassing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing equipment repair, supervision of systems like sprinklers, fire pumps, and fire alarms, as well as the maintenance of gas and oil boilers, stormwater tanks, HVAC air-handling and fan-coil units, climate control and energy-recovery unit, the supervision of a commercial roof-top chiller, and the proficiency of varying power tools and knowledge of construction management and CMMS software tools. In addition, this role requires a strong grasp of Class-A building design principles and the ability to read and interpret CAD floor plan drawings. It also entails contributing to the development of policies, standards, and inspection procedures related to MEP systems and taking part in the review of shop drawings, as-builts and specifications.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

MEP / HVAC:

• Read and interpret technical reports, shop drawings, submittals, specifications, and as-built HVAC and MEP drawings.
• Participate in building upgrades involving MEP of both new and old equipment systems. • Monitor all outside MEP vendors who do business with the Studio Museum.
• Manage controls of the building automation/management system (BAS/BMS) governing HVAC, air quality, ventilation, electrical, lighting, plumbing, and fire alarm systems.
• Remotely and locally adjust varying levels of temperature controls for the museum with the focus of protecting all artwork and in supplying maximum comfort levels for all staff and visitors. • Help in preparing galleries for new exhibitions and in de-installation of artwork as needed.
• Must be available 24/7 to assist with building emergencies and coverage.
• Assist with snow and ice removal, including shoveling, salting, and operating equipment to maintain safe and accessible walkways and entrances during inclement weather.
• Experience in painting MEP floors, equipment and more.
• Conduct daily building rounds, interpret, write daily logs, and input building systems data.

Skills and Qualifications  

• Demonstrated ability to function as a highly effective engineer and an analytical person in a fast-paced work environment.
• Delivers a positive, solution-oriented approach to every situation. •
• Ability to manage the demands of a highly public facing environment.
• Hands-on individual with a keen eye for preventative maintenance of an art museum building.
• A NYS valid driver’ license is a plus.
• Ability to successfully execute mechanical building projects while managing the museum building's overall operations.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and make decisions based on sound assessments, with discretion and a deft hand, and understanding of the Department and Museum’s mission is necessary.
• Experience working with the City of New York’s Department of Buildings and FDNY is a plus. • Knowledge of application of New York City codes of health, safety, and security standards to the performance of maintenance work.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of federal, New York State and NYC law, code, and regulations, including OSHA, ADA, and Department of Health; knowledge of asbestos, lead and other hazardous material, noise pollution, indoor air quality, recycling laws and regulations that pertain to public assembly facilities.
• Able to complete required professional/OSHA training including Confined Space, Fall Protecti