Chief Operating Engineer

Grow your career with a company that shares your passion! Our Campus Division has an exciting new opportunity to join the Sodexo team as our next  Chief Operating Engineer located in Wolfville, Nova Scotia

Salary: $ 70,000-$80,000

At Sodexo, we’re not just about food - we’re about fueling futures. We create vibrant, inclusive spaces where students can thrive, connect, and discover who they are. From dining halls to digital experiences, we’re here to make every day on campus unforgettable.

Our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.

Job Description

How You’ll Make an Impact:

As the Chief Operating Engineer, you will provide leadership for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of Acadia University’s Central Heating Plant, Refrigeration Plant, and associated distribution systems. Reporting to the System Engineering Manager, you will oversee plant operations, maintenance activities, energy management initiatives, regulatory compliance, and the development of a skilled operating team. This role is critical in ensuring reliable utility services to the campus community while supporting sustainability objectives and maintaining Sodexo’s Zero Harm Mindset.

As a Chief Operating Engineer, you will:

• Lead the safe and efficient operation of the Central Heating Plant, Refrigeration Plant, and associated utility distribution systems.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable Provincial and Federal regulations, Nova Scotia Power Engineer Regulations, Acadia University policies, and Sodexo standards.
• Supervise, coach, and support CHP Operators and CHP Maintenance Relief Operators.
• Manage employee relations matters including attendance, training, performance management, procedural compliance, and first-stage grievances.
• Participate in labour-management meetings and administer responsibilities in accordance with the Collective Agreement.
• Develop, implement, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), risk assessments, and preventative maintenance programs.
• Monitor, analyze, and report on plant performance, utility consumption, and energy efficiency initiatives.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements, cost savings, energy reduction, and equipment optimization.
• Prepare monthly operational reports and provide updates to management and client representatives.
• Manage operating budgets, forecasts, and capital planning initiatives.
• Ensure all required records, manuals, certifications, inspections, and documentation are maintained accurately and in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate contractors, vendors, and service providers supporting plant operations.
• Support the implementation and use of CMMS systems, safety management systems, and operational technologies.
• Promote a culture of safety, teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Participate in management meetings, client meetings, and training sessions as required.
• Ensure proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and adherence to all safety protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of campus operations.

Qualifications

What You’ll Need to Succeed

• Valid 2nd Class Power Engineer’s Certificate of Qualification for Nova Scotia (or interprovincial equivalent recognized in Canada).
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience operating and maintaining central heating plants, refrigeration plants, or similar industrial utility systems.
• Previous supervisory or leadership experience in a unionized environment is considered a strong asset.
• Strong knowledge of steam generation, refrigeration systems, energy management, preventative maintenance, and plant operations.
• Experience interpreting and applying Collective Agreements, workplace policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage priorities, and support employee development.
• Experience preparing budgets, forecasts, operational reports, and capital improvement recommendations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on operational efficiency and continuous improvement.
• Proficiency with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), Microsoft Office 365, and workplace management software.
• Knowledge of Maximo, Keystone Work Order System, UKG, and IMS Safety Database is considered an asset.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build strong relationships with clients, employees, contractors, and stakeholders.
• Commitment to safety, ethics, professionalism, and Sodexo’s Zero Harm Mindset.
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment and respond effectively to operational emergencies when required.

Additional Information

What Makes Sodexo Different: 

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater because we believe our everyday actions have a big impact. You belong  in a company that allows you to act with purpose and thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer: 

• Flexible work environment  
• Competitive compensation & great employee benefits 
• Training and development programs   
• Countless opportunities for growth   
• Corporate responsibility & sustainability  
• An award-winning employer for Sustainability, Diversity & Inclusion, Corporate Social Responsibility, and much more. View Sodexo’s latest awards  here  
• And so much more!      

Sodexo is committed to Employment Equity and Diversity. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of national origin, race, religion, ethnic group, age, disability, gender, sexual preference, sexual or gender identity, status as a veteran or any other federal, provincial or local protected class.   

We welcome and encourage applications from people with disabilities. Accommodation is available on request from candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.   

Sodexo is committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment for our team members, customers, clients, contractors, business partners, guests, and members of the public with whom we regularly interact. We require that all new hires in hospitals, long term care facilities, and senior homes to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and may require any other new hires to be fully vaccinated based on the location and scope of their employment. 

Thank you for your interest in Sodexo. 

Please note that only those candidates under consideration will be contacted.  

Curious to learn more? Discover why Sodexo is more than just a job - follow us on social! 

Instagram: @SodexoCanada  

LinkedIn:  Sodexo Canada Careers  

Facebook:  Sodexo Canada  

SodexoSPJ