Chief Engineer (Engineering)

Exciting Opportunity: Chief Engineer
LB&B Associates, Inc. Where Your Leadership Fuels Innovation and Reliability
Are you ready to take your engineering career to new heights? Searching for a role where your expertise in operations, maintenance, and utility plant management directly empowers groundbreaking research and facility excellence? LB&B Associates, Inc. is looking for a visionary Chief Engineer to join our legacy of technical excellence at a renowned research facility. Step into a pivotal position where every system you optimize, every challenge you solve, and every team you inspire helps shape the future of scientific progress and operational reliability!
Why LB&B Associates, Inc.?
Imagine joining a team of more than 1,000 dedicated professionals, all united by a shared mission: delivering exceptional service to extraordinary clients. LB&B Associates, Inc. is celebrated nationwide for exceeding expectationsserving Federal and State Government agencies, Fortune 500 companies, and leading commercial organizations. Our people are the driving force behind our success, fueling growth through expertise, innovation, and steadfast collaboration.
Now, were expanding our operations leadership team in partnership with TeamGOVand we want you to lead the charge at this prestigious research facility. Here, your technical mastery, strategic thinking, and passion for operational excellence wont just be recognizedtheyll be championed.
About the Role
Position: Chief Engineer
Location: Manhattan, KS
Employment Type: Full-Time
Are you a proactive leader with a deep commitment to operational reliability, sustainability, and team development? Do you thrive in environments where facility performance, energy efficiency, and safety converge to enable scientific discovery? As Chief Engineer with LB&B Associates, Inc., youll play a vital role in ensuring that every system, from HVAC to central plant utilities, operates at peak performanceempowering innovation, safety, and comfort across the campus.
What Youll Do
Each day as Chief Engineer brings fresh challengesand the satisfaction of making an enduring impact. Key responsibilities include:
Oversee daily operations and maintenance of all building systems, including HVAC, boilers, chillers, electrical, plumbing, and central utility plant equipment.
Lead and mentor a talented team of engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of accountability, technical growth, and continuous improvement.
Develop, implement, and optimize preventive and predictive maintenance programs for maximum reliability and efficiency.
Collaborate with facility managers and research staff to support mission-critical operations, project planning, and equipment upgrades.
Ensure full compliance with safety standards, regulatory requirements (including OSHA, NFPA, and EPA), and facility protocols.
Monitor energy consumption, analyze system performance, and champion initiatives for energy conservation and sustainability.
Troubleshoot complex mechanical, electrical, and controls issues, coordinating timely repairs and root cause analyses.
Manage vendor and contractor relationships, including oversight of service contracts and project deliverables.
Support capital projects and renovations, reviewing engineering plans, specifications, and submittals for technical accuracy and operational impact.
Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, inspections, incident reports, and regulatory documentation.
Respond promptly to facility emergencies, providing calm leadership and technical expertise under pressure.
Stay ahead of industry best practices and emerging technologies, sharing insights to continually raise the bar.
What Were Looking For
Do you have a robust technical background and a passion for operational excellence? Were seeking candidates who demonstrate:
Bachelors degree or equivalent experience in mechanical, electrical, facilities engineering, or a related discipline.
Minimum of 7 years experience in facilities management, operations, or plant engineeringpreferably in large commercial or research environments.
Strong knowledge of building and utility systems, including central plant operations, energy management, and life-safety systems.
Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and building automation/control systems (BAS).
Proven leadership and team development skills, with experience supervising technical staff and fostering a collaborative culture.
Expertise in troubleshooting, diagnostics, and root cause analysis for complex systems.
Outstanding communication, project management, and organizational abilities.
Commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and sustainable facility operations.
Physical ability to perform facility inspections, respond to emergencies, and work in building infrastructure environments, including confined spaces and elevated areas.
Preferred Skills and Attributes:
Relevant technical certifications (CEM, LEED AP, etc.)
Experience leading central utility plant operations and major capital projects.
Knowledge of laboratory, high-containment, or mission-critical building environments.
Strong analytical skills, with a results-driven, customer-focused approach.
Adaptability to evolving technologies and facility priorities.
Typical Work Environment
Chief Engineers operate across a diverse campusfrom state-of-the-art research labs to bustling central plants and mechanical rooms. The role requires navigating active work zones, leading response teams during emergencies, and occasionally working evenings or weekends to support 24/7 facility operations.
Physical Demands
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Frequent standing, walking, climbing ladders, and working at heights or in equipment rooms.
Manual dexterity and visual acuity for inspections and troubleshooting.
Comfort with moderate noise, heat/cold, and exposure to facility infrastructure (PPE provided).
What We Offer
Experience a supportive and rewarding team culture, plus a robust benefits package designed to elevate your career and wellbeing:
Comprehensive Benefits: Mandatory life insurance, short and long-term disability, plus optional medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Financial Security: 401(k) plan with employer contributionsplan for your future while you advance your career.
Professional Growth: Tuition reimbursement and support for certifications and continuing education.
Work-Life Balance: Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and flexible scheduling options.
Paid Holidays: Enjoy 11 paid holidays annually to recharge and celebrate.
At LB&B Associates, Inc., our people are our greatest asset. We invest in your success, growth, and peace of mind.
LB&B Associates, Inc. proudly champions equal opportunity. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, ancestry, ethnicity, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally protected status.
We also provide reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. If you need assistance during the application process, please let us knowwere here to support you.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Are you passionate about operating and maintaining facilities where innovation thrives? Do you take pride in knowing your expertise ensures safety, comfort, and reliability for world-class research? If so, LB&B Associates, Inc. invites you to join a company where your leadership, technical skill, and vision are valued and celebrated.
How to Apply
Applying is easy! Send your current resume and a cover letter highlighting your relevant engineering experience and enthusiasm for this role. We look forward to learning how your background and ambition align with our mission of excellence.
Dont miss your chance to lead a legacy of technical achievementand to belong to a team that feels like family. Make your mark with LB&B Associates, Inc. at this leading research facility!
Contact Us
If you have questions about the Chief Engineer position or the hiring process, reach out to our recruitment team. We welcome the opportunity to share what makes LB&B Associates, Inc. an outstanding place to build your engineering career.
Join UsWhere Engineering Drives Discovery!
Your future starts here. Apply today and become part of our tradition of outstanding service, innovation, and teamwork. Lets engineer a brighter tomorrowtogether.