Chief Engineer

Chief Stationary Engineer – Job Description

Department: Facilities and Engineering
FLSA Status: Exempt
Salary Grade: 9
Salary Range: $80,000–$90,000
Work Location: Primarily onsite, with some remote work
Full‑time/Part‑time: Full‑time
Last Revision Date: 12/22/2025

The Organization: The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) is an internationally recognized performing‑arts institution dedicated to excellence, diversity, resilience, collaboration, and innovation. Located in historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Music Center, the DSO operates 365 days a year as a performing arts, educational, and community center. It is governed by an independent Board of Directors and employs both union and non‑union staff across musicians, stage crews, and administrative functions.

The DSO is also deeply invested in Detroit’s growth through its Detroit Strategy initiative.

DSO offers a fast‑paced working environment, an excellent compensation package, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Position Summary: The Chief Stationary Engineer will oversee all mechanical operations and upkeep of the DSO and the Max M. Fisher Music Center. Responsibilities include maintaining mechanical, steam pressure heating, water, ventilation systems, and refrigeration equipment throughout the facility, ensuring safety and operational excellence.

Specific

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operate and maintain all mechanical, steam, heating, water, ventilation, and refrigeration systems efficiently and safely.
• Monitor the Building Management System (BMS) remotely using standard computer skills.
• Perform preventive maintenance on chillers, circulate pumps, and control valves; arrange repairs as directed.
• Maintain boilers, feed pumps, control valves, and ensure temperatures, pressure, and fluid levels are within acceptable ranges; adjust belts, filters, and perform necessary cleaning.
• Log and retain data: plant meter readings, trending reports, compressed air leak reports, and high‑pressure equipment logs.
• Supervise and schedule the DSO’s part‑time HVAC technician.
• Coordinate with outside vendors for mechanical system work, determining when contract labor is required.
• Assist with plumbing and HVAC installation and repair of boiler house equipment.
• Maintain and repair heating and ventilating units in place, including associated piping.
• Operate and maintain boilers and auxiliary equipment, including water RO systems, boiler controls, and electric/pneumatic components.
• Respond to work orders via phone, email, or electronic systems (Microsoft Teams, Zoom, etc.).
• Conduct water chemistry laboratory analysis on plant systems; maintain proper chemical parameters.
• Keep mechanical spaces clean and maintain inventory of belts, filters, glycol, and other materials.
• Follow DSO standard operating procedures with a focus on safety.
• Attend weekly equipment performance meetings with the Senior Director of Facilities & Engineering.

Required Qualifications:

• City of Detroit Stationary Engineer license.
• City of Detroit 3rd‑class refrigeration license.
• City of Detroit 1st‑class boiler license.
• High school, technical trade school degree, or union apprenticeship with at least 5 years of comparable experience.
• Ability to respond remotely when off‑site while managing the BMS.
• Independent judgment, initiative, and adaptability to changing priorities.
• Successful collaboration within a team environment.

Desired

Qualifications:

• Previous experience with Niagara Building Automation Systems (training will be provided).

Additional Information:

• This is a salaried, non‑union position.
• Variable schedule to meet the DSO’s performance needs, including occasional nights and weekends, both on‑site and remotely.
• All positions require a background check prior to employment. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify candidates.

Physical Requirements:

• Occasional lifting/carrying up to 10 lbs.
• Occasional lifting/carrying 10–25 lbs.
• Occasional lifting/carrying 26–50 lbs.
• Occasional pushing/pulling.
• Manually dexterous work.

Position

Reports to:

Senior Director of Facilities & Engineering

Direct Reports: 1 Part‑time HVAC Technician

For accommodations to ensure successful participation in the application or interview process, please contact hr.