Building Engineer

About Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)

WCS stands for wildlife and wild places. As the world’s premier wildlife conservation organization, WCS has a long track record of achieving innovative, impactful results  run field programs spanning 60 countries and the entire ocean. We build on a unique foundation:
Our reach is global; we discover through best‑in‑class science; we protect through work on the ground with local and indigenous people; we inspire through our world‑class zoos, aquarium, and education programs; and we leverage our resources through partnerships and powerful policy influence. Our more than 4,000 diverse, passionately committed team members in New York City and around the world work collectively to achieve our conservation mission.

The Bronx Zoo consists of 265 acres with over one hundred buildings, many of which have HVAC, mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems that require inspection, maintenance and repair. The Building Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and safety of building heating and cooling systems across the Bronx Zoo campus. The Building Engineer will oversee the proper operation and maintenance of seven (7) chiller units that produce chilled water, heating systems including boilers, all auxiliary equipment including pumping systems and compressors, and various Building Management Systems that monitor HVAC equipment.

The Building Engineer will work as part of the Operations department that is responsible for the upkeep of all buildings, maintenance, repairs and construction projects throughout the Zoo. This position contributes effectively in creating the best possible environment for the animal collection, staff and guest experience for all visitors.

• Operate and maintain building heating and cooling systems, including chillers, pumps, HVAC, and compressors to ensure safe and reliable facility operations.
• Conduct daily rounds of equipment and maintain equipment logs. Evaluate data to confirm proper operations. Maintain documentation as required by WCS, City, State and Federal policies.
• Conduct scheduled preventive maintenance and repair tasks for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems across all buildings.
• Monitor and utilize Building Management Systems (BMS) to monitor, analyze, troubleshoot and control facility infrastructure.
• Respond promptly and effectively to HVAC and utility issues to maintain a safe, comfortable, and climate‑controlled environment for the animal collection, staff, and visitors.
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve mechanical and electrical issues independently or with limited supervision. Includes overhauling and rebuilding pumps of various sizes.
• Support construction, renovation, and repairs by overseeing work performed by vendors and coordinating contractor access to all spaces to ensure repairs and maintenance are properly addressed.
• Assist with emergency responses, including fire alarms and critical system failures, in coordination with the Cogeneration, Operations, Security and Animal departments.
• Promote and maintain clean, organized, and safe work environments in all Operations mechanical spaces.
• Maintain the Society’s standards for quality and professionalism and enhanced guest experience throughout the Park, its facilities, buildings and exhibits.

Physical Demands

Workplace Conditions and Environment:
The workplace conditions and environment of the role include working indoors, closely with others, and/or alone, exposure to excess noise, operating power tools and equipment, and use of sharp tools and equipment.

WCS is an equal opportunity employer, and the organization complies with all employment and labor laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and engaging in a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and looking for future team members who share that same value.

The organization…