City of Seattle is hiring: Building Engineer - Library in Seattle

Overview

The Seattle Public Library is a dynamic urban library system that consists of the Central Library and 26 branch libraries. Library staff are valued for knowledge, service, and care, and are committed to the Library's values of care, connection, and learning. They are equitable, respectful, engaged in partnerships, and transparent. The Library seeks to foster a culture of innovation focused on creativity, engagement, learning, and staff well-being and belonging. If you share these values and meet the qualifications, the Library invites you to apply for this Building Engineer position.

This position can be assigned to the downtown Central Library or to branch libraries in Seattle. The downtown Central Library is LEED-Certified Silver. The facility encompasses 365,000 square feet, 12 levels, and includes an HVAC system that exceeds environmental quality standards for commercial high-rise buildings. The building’s sophisticated computerized HVAC controls manage temperatures, air quality, and air handling dynamics and are connected to other critical mechanical systems including hot water and life-safety systems.

The Building Engineer will be the Library’s lead in recognizing, troubleshooting, and resolving HVAC operating problems. The position reports to the Building Maintenance Support Supervisors and works with teammates within the Facilities Maintenance Services Department. While responsible for HVAC systems at the downtown library, they will also perform work at neighborhood libraries as needed, which vary in age, size, and design.

Responsibilities

• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve HVAC problems.
• Monitor system functioning using computerized controls; perform corrective and preventive adjustments.
• Lead the handling of emergency HVAC problems to ensure facilities remain open to the public and staff and are safe and comfortable.
• Interpret data from computerized control systems; coordinate corrective actions with vendors and maintenance staff.
• Contact vendors/contractors for major repairs and coordinate with crew lead and unit supervisors.
• Perform elements of plumbing, refrigeration, pneumatic, and electrical/mechanical crafts to ensure efficient operation.
• Operate building automation systems and controls; monitor daily operations and adjust as needed.
• Operate Siemens software and advise staff about system and operational problems.
• Oversee maintenance and repair of the Library’s HVAC systems and develop maintenance and programming schedules.
• Coordinate services of vendors and contractors for new installations or major repairs; communicate activities with Library staff for smooth service delivery.
• Provide administrative support for HVAC operations, including developing reports, maintaining records, updating procedures, and managing documentation.
• Ensure safe operation of HVAC systems; identify hazards and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Completion of an accredited apprenticeship or vocational program in building engineering, industrial plant maintenance, or HVAC systems, or the equivalent experience.
• Minimum of three (3) years of skilled trade work in HVAC systems.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience with operation of industrial, commercial, and/or high-rise HVAC systems including steam heat, chillers, large air-handlers, and direct digital controls.
• Experience diagnosing and troubleshooting operating problems in large HVAC systems in office buildings, large multi-story facilities, or similar settings; knowledge of electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and related trades in HVAC operations.
• Experience developing and implementing maintenance schedules and principles for HVAC management, including large smoke evacuation and energy management systems; ability to install, operate, repair, and replace building automation control systems using direct digital controls.
• Ability to read shop drawings and blueprints; knowledge of safety codes and MSDS.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks and lift up to 50 pounds; tolerance of noise, dust, and conditions of HVAC environments; ability to climb ladders and work at heights; normal eyesight and hearing with or without correction.
• Ability to safely use a variety of hand and power tools.
• Effective written and oral communication skills; ability to follow instructions in manuals and labels.
• Experience applying courteous and responsive customer service when interacting with the public and staff.
• Excellent communication, conflict-resolution, and interpersonal skills; ability to interact with the public, Library staff, contractors, and Facilities personnel with tact and courtesy.
• Proficient computer skills including word processing, email, and internet navigation; ability to plan and schedule work independently.
• Ability to work effectively in a diverse team and to respect cultural differences.
• Possession of a valid Driver’s License; must obtain Washington State Driver’s License upon employment if different from current license.

Desired Qualifications

• One year of experience operating Siemens building control systems is preferred.
• Possession of or ability to obtain related licenses within 12 months of employment, specifically: City of Seattle Grade III Steam Engineer’s license, EPA CFC Universal Certificate, Washington State Electrician Specialty License (HVAC/R), and City of Seattle Refrigeration Mechanic’s License Class A.

How to Apply

Candidates who meet the qualifications should submit the following items in NEOGOV by 5:00 p.m. on August 4, 2025:

1. Online application with responses to supplemental questions.
2. A cover letter describing how your experience and skills align with the job responsibilities and qualifications; explain why you want to do this work.
3. Current resume summarizing relevant education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

Note: Successful candidates will be asked to provide a current Washington State Driver’s Abstract upon employment.

Applications that do not include a cover letter, resume, and complete online application will not be considered. Applicants will be screened for competitiveness, completeness, and written communication skills. Initial screening will be based on application materials. The most competitive candidates will be invited to participate in interviews.

Benefits and Salary Information

The full salary range for this position is $39.84 - $43.96 per hour. The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City’s website. Information about retirement plans can be found on the City’s retirement site.

Additional Information

If you have questions regarding this bulletin or employment at The Seattle Public Library, please email job.applications@spl.org. The Library promotes diversity and inclusion in employment. If accommodations are needed during the selection process, please contact us. Please note that job offers are contingent on a review of criminal history and verification of information provided during the application process.