Head of Engineering for Government Account

Position Overview

Lead engineering operations and technical strategy for JLL's government sector clients, delivering world-class facility management, project execution, and infrastructure solutions across government portfolios. Drive operational excellence, innovation, and compliance while managing multi-site engineering teams supporting critical government facilities.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Client Management Partner with government clients to develop and execute comprehensive engineering strategies aligned with agency missions and operational requirements. Serve as the primary technical authority for the account, building trusted relationships with facility directors, project managers, and government stakeholders. Translate complex technical requirements into actionable engineering solutions that optimize facility performance, lifecycle costs, and regulatory compliance.

Operations & Technical Excellence Oversee all engineering operations including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire life safety, building automation systems, and critical infrastructure across the government portfolio. Ensure 24/7 operational readiness of mission-critical facilities through robust preventive maintenance programs, predictive analytics, and rapid response protocols. Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance reliability, reduce downtime, and extend asset lifecycles while meeting stringent government performance standards.

Team Leadership & Development Build and lead high-performing engineering teams including chief engineers, facility engineers, technicians, and specialized trades. Foster a culture of technical excellence, safety, accountability, and professional development. Recruit, mentor, and retain top engineering talent while creating career pathways and succession plans that support long-term account stability and growth.

Compliance & Risk Management Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local regulations including OSHA, EPA, building codes, and agency-specific requirements. Maintain comprehensive documentation, audit readiness, and quality assurance processes. Implement safety programs that protect personnel, assets, and mission continuity while minimizing operational risk and liability exposure.

Financial & Budget Management Develop and manage engineering budgets including labor, materials, contracts, and capital projects. Optimize resource allocation, control costs, and identify efficiency opportunities that deliver measurable value. Provide accurate financial forecasting, variance analysis, and transparent reporting that enables informed decision-making by both JLL leadership and government clients.

Innovation & Sustainability Champion technology adoption including IoT sensors, building analytics platforms, computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and digital twin capabilities. Drive energy efficiency initiatives, sustainability programs, and ESG objectives that reduce environmental impact and operating costs. Identify emerging technologies and industry best practices that maintain competitive advantage and client satisfaction.

Required Qualifications

Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or related technical field required advanced degree preferred. Minimum 10-15 years of progressive engineering leadership experience with at least 5 years managing large-scale government or federal facility portfolios. Proven track record delivering engineering services in complex, regulated environments with multiple stakeholders.

Technical Expertise Deep knowledge of building systems, infrastructure operations, and facility engineering disciplines. Strong understanding of government procurement processes, contract vehicles (IDIQ, GSA schedules, BPAs), and performance-based contracting. Proficiency with CMMS platforms, BAS systems, energy management tools, and engineering analytics software.

Certifications & Licenses Professional Engineer (PE) license strongly preferred. Relevant certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), or equivalent highly valued. Security clearance eligibility required for certain government facilities.

Leadership Competencies Demonstrated ability to lead geographically dispersed teams, manage complex stakeholder relationships, and drive results in matrixed organizations. Excellent communication skills with ability to present technical information to non-technical audiences. Strategic mindset balanced with hands-on operational engagement and problem-solving capability.