Lead Engineer (Contract)

The Lead Engineer/Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day engineering operations and maintenance activities at a client facility in London Shoreditch.

Key Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership & Operations: The Lead Engineer supervises all mechanical, electrical, and building services operations, ensuring systems operate efficiently and reliably. This includes managing planned preventative maintenance (PPM) schedules, coordinating reactive maintenance responses, and overseeing system performance monitoring. The role requires conducting technical inspections, diagnosing complex system faults, and implementing effective solutions that minimize downtime and optimize building performance.
• Team Management & Development: Directly supervise and coordinate the engineering team, including technicians and contractors working on site. This involves allocating daily work assignments, monitoring task completion, and ensuring team members follow established procedures and safety protocols. The Lead Engineer provides technical mentoring, conducts performance reviews, and identifies training needs to develop team capabilities and maintain high service standards.
• Health, Safety & Compliance: Ensure all engineering activities comply with relevant legislation including CDM Regulations, Health & Safety at Work Act, and building-specific statutory requirements. Maintain permit-to-work systems, conduct risk assessments, implement method statements, and ensure the team adheres to safe working practices. Manage statutory compliance testing schedules and maintain accurate records for all inspections, certifications, and mandatory testing.
• Client Relationship Management: Serve as the primary technical contact for the client, building strong working relationships and ensuring service delivery meets contractual obligations and client expectations. Provide regular updates on building performance, maintenance activities, and any issues requiring attention. Respond professionally to client requests and concerns, escalating matters appropriately when necessary.
• Budget & Resource Management: Monitor operational budgets, control maintenance costs, and identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising service quality. Manage spare parts inventory, approve purchase orders within authorized limits, and ensure resources are utilized efficiently. Provide input into annual budget planning and capital expenditure proposals.
• Documentation & Reporting: Maintain comprehensive records using JLL's CAFM (Computer-Aided Facility Management) systems. Prepare regular reports on KPIs, maintenance activities, equipment performance, energy consumption, and operational issues. Ensure all maintenance logs, test certificates, and technical documentation are current and readily accessible for audits and inspections.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and enhance system reliability. Recommend upgrades or modifications to building systems, implement best practices, and contribute to sustainability initiatives that support client objectives and corporate environmental targets.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Technical Qualifications: City & Guilds or equivalent technical qualification in mechanical or electrical engineering; Relevant trade apprenticeship or NVQ Level 3 in Building Services Engineering; 18th Edition (BS 7671) electrical qualification (if applicable to discipline); Relevant HVAC certifications (F-Gas, REFCOM, LOGIC) depending on systems managed.
• Professional Requirements: Minimum 5 years' experience in building services engineering/facilities management; Proven supervisory or team leadership experience within commercial property environments; Strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical building systems including HVAC, electrical distribution, BMS, fire systems, and plumbing; Current understanding of relevant legislation and industry standards.
• Essential Skills: Excellent problem-solving abilities and technical diagnostic skills; Strong communication skills with ability to engage effectively with clients, contractors, and team members; Competent using CAFM systems and Microsoft Office applications; Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and specifications.
• Desirable Attributes: IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent health and safety qualification; Experience working within prestigious commercial, corporate, or high-rise buildings; Knowledge of energy management and sustainability practices; Professional membership (IET, CIBSE, or similar professional body); Full UK driving license.