Chief Engineer ( AOA)

Job Description

Job Description

Position Title : Chief Engineer

Department : Engineering

Reports To : Director of Operations Location : Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium

Who We Are

Audubon Nature Institute comprises Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, Audubon Insectarium, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, Audubon Center for Research of Endangered Species, Woldenberg Riverfront Park, and Audubon Wilderness Park

At Audubon Nature Institute, we are more than a collection of parks, museums, and conservation centers—we are a dedicated team with a shared mission to celebrate, protect, and connect people to the wonders of nature. Our work is guided by our culture code, which is at the heart of everything we do. We believe in Activating Impact by integrating tangible, real-world outcomes into all our initiatives, fostering a culture where every action contributes to a positive environmental impact. We are committed to Empowering Optimism, using positivity to inspire others to act and believe in

their capacity to create meaningful change. We strive to Create Connection by engaging with

people from all walks of life, knowing that the collective strength of a diverse community can address the most pressing challenges facing our natural world. At Audubon, we embody the spirit of Le Bon Temps, infusing the joy and vibrant culture of Louisiana into our everyday work, celebrating

our unique heritage while advancing our mission. As Leaders of the Pack, we constantly seek

smarter, innovative solutions, challenging conventions to drive the change we want to see in the world.

What You’ll Do

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the oversight and daily operations of the engineering department. This role involves supervising department staff and ensuring the maintenance, monitoring, and repair of HVAC systems, life support systems, and various other mechanical equipment.

Primary Responsibilities :

Supervise and coordinate engineering staff activities and schedules.

Maintain, monitor, and repair HVAC, life support systems, fire alarm systems, emergency generator systems, fire pumps, and all automated building systems.

Perform preventive maintenance and repairs on equipment such as sprinklers, forklifts, golf carts, and other movable assets.

Maintain accurate written records of repairs, equipment data, and maintenance activities.

Develop and manage preventative maintenance schedules and procedures.

Oversee departmental payroll and produce weekly staffing schedules.

Prepare and manage department budgets.

Solicit quotes and prepare formal bids for equipment and service contracts.

Skills and Qualifications :

Strong knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and life safety systems.

Experience with automated building systems and fire safety equipment.

Excellent organizational and administrative skills.

Proficiency in record keeping, scheduling, and budget preparation.

Ability to lead and manage a team effectively.

Day to Day Responsibilities

Maintain accurate records of daily rounds, repairs, and all equipment maintenance, including tracking life expectancy of systems and components.

Assist in onboarding and training of new engineering staff.

Oversee completion and documentation of daily equipment rounds and ensure logs are kept up to date.

Participate in required continuing education and certifications.

Create and manage weekly departmental employee schedules to ensure 24-hour facility coverage while minimizing unnecessary overtime.

Collaborate with Horticulture staff to repair and maintain the park and building irrigation systems.

Oversee and perform preventative maintenance and repairs on all pumps, motors, fire alarm systems, and related infrastructure.

Monitor fire alarm system operations, schedule and supervise testing, and lead regular mock fire drills to ensure staff readiness and system familiarity.

Maintain and monitor all life support systems and automation equipment across the facility and remote sites.

Keep detailed records of system changes, including set point modifications, repair logs, and programming updates.

Perform ongoing maintenance of emergency generator systems and schedule regular preventative services.

Conduct ozone system management, including routine monitoring, calibration, maintenance, and repair of ozone monitors and generators.

Lead development and implementation of ongoing departmental training programs.

Maintain HVAC systems throughout the building, in the park, and at remote locations; track all service and repair activity.

Stay informed and trained on the safe use of departmental chemicals, including understanding MSDS procedures for handling chemical incidents.

Consistently use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection, gloves, and hearing protection.

Actively participate in departmental and organizational safety programs, including scheduled safety training and emergency preparedness sessions.

Note : The responsibilities listed above represent the core duties performed regularly by the Chief Engineer. Additional duties may be assigned as needed

Additional / Overall Skills :

Maintain a positive attitude and a strong sense of accountability, fostering a collaborative team environment where everyone feels empowered to contribute.

Thrive in a team environment, using your organizational and technical skills to ensure the smooth execution of creative projects that resonate with our audience.

Celebrate the successes of your team and bring enthusiasm to your work, reflecting the joyful culture that is at the heart of Audubon’s mission.

Stay adaptable and open to learning new skills, embracing change and innovation as opportunities to lead and grow.

The above listed duties are general statements of required major duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. They do not exclude other duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For

Must Haves : Experience :

• Minimum of 5+ years as a Stationary Engineer or in a closely related field
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in staff or office supervision
• Proven expertise with automated controls, centrifugal pumps, electrical systems, and related equipment
• Prior experience in commercial building operations and system implementation

Administrative & Management Skills :

Education & Certification :

Technical Skills :

Nice-to-Haves :

Physical Requirements :

Very heavy work : must be able to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 75 pounds

Frequent walking or standing; regular bending, stooping, and lifting required

Must possess near acuity vision (clarity at 20 inches or less)

Ability to collect and analyze written, verbal, and numerical data

Regular speaking and hearing to effectively communicate and understand work environment

Constant ability to read, record, and input data with accuracy

Environmental / Working Conditions :

Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays

Capable of working long shifts without regular meal or rest breaks

Must be able to handle high-stress situations professionally and calmly

Will be exposed to varying noise levels, temperature fluctuations, and outdoor conditions

Required to remain onsite during natural disasters or emergencies as a designated storm rider