RAHSAAN R. KEMP
Summary
Results-driven Chief Engineer with 12+ years of experience operating and optimizing boiler plants, chillers, and HVAC systems across large-scale educational, commercial, and high-rise properties. Expert in Building Automation Systems (BAS) and advanced computerized control software to drive energy efficiency, safety, and system reliability. Proven leader with strong regulatory compliance, team supervision, and mission-critical operations experience.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chief Engineer
Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority
01.2014 - Current
- Lead daily operations, maintenance, and optimization of boiler plant and chiller systems serving large-scale commercial buildings, luxury hotels, and high-rise facilities.
- Oversee installation, startup, operation, and preventative maintenance of high- and low-pressure boilers, centrifugal and screw chillers, pumps, and associated mechanical systems.
- Utilize advanced Building Automation Systems (BAS) and computerized energy management software to monitor, control, and optimize boilers/chillers performance for maximum efficiency and reliability.
- Analyze system data and trends using top-of-the-line software to reduce energy consumption, improve uptime, and extend equipment life cycles.
- Supervise, train, and mentor engineering staff to ensure proper procedures, safety practices and professional development.
- Prepare operational reports, maintenance logs, and documentation using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal codes, including boiler inspections, ASHRAE standards, OSHA regulations, and environmental requirements.
Chief Engineer
Hill Mechanical / Chicago Public Schools – Azuela School
Chicago, IL
01.2010 - 2014
- Directed daily operation, maintenance, and optimization of steam and condensing boiler plants, chillers, VFDs, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, and ventilation systems.
- Operated two 160-ton McQuay chillers and (2) Fulton VTG-3000 boilers (160 psig, 3 MMBTU/hr, 86 BHP) using computerized control platforms.
- Utilized BAS and system diagnostics to monitor performance, trend data, and ensure energy-efficient operation.
- Supervised custodial staff, engineers, contractors, and vendors; coordinated with CPS, Public Building Commission, and city agencies.
- Led fire prevention and life-safety programs, including sprinkler systems, fire alarms, pump flow tests, heat detectors, and annual inspections.
- Managed budgets, purchase orders, preventive maintenance schedules, monthly reporting, and compliance documentation.
- Conducted high-pressure boiler firing, chemical water treatment, MSDS logging, and functional performance testing.
- Performed generator testing (Kohler), maintained Liebert cooling systems (MDF), and ensured uninterrupted building operations.
- Ensured full compliance with building, safety, and health codes, maintaining a safe environment for occupancy.
- 108,000 sq. ft. | LEED Gold Certified
Engineer
Chicago Apparel Center / MMPI
Chicago, IL
01.2007 - 01.2009
- Maintained (3) Carrier chillers supported by Exelon Thermal Technologies cooling systems.
- Prepared and supported diesel generator testing (16-cylinder CAT), minimizing tenant downtime.
- Upgraded pneumatic controls to Andover and Honeywell automation, improving air quality and system efficiency.
- Maintained air compressors, building fan systems, and participated in safety compliance programs.
- 1.7M sq. ft.
Engineer
Merchandise Mart / MMPI
Chicago, IL
01.2005 - 01.2007
- Operated and maintained (5) Johnson fire-tube steam boilers producing 6,096 lbs/hr of steam.
- Supported power plant operations and high-pressure boiler maintenance, contributing to over $500K in operational savings.
- Operated fire and jockey pumps; supervised contractors during regulated maintenance and inspections.
- Worked with AC/DC electrical systems, transfer switches, and life-safety infrastructure.
- 4.0M sq. ft.
Education
IUOE Local 399 / Triton College
Chicago, IL01-2004
Skills
- High and low-pressure boiler management
- Screw chillers proficiency
- Building Automation Systems (Automated Logic, Johnson Controls, Andover, Honeywell, Simplex)
- Energy Management & System Optimization
- Preventive & Predictive Maintenance Systems & Life Safety
- Fire Protection Systems & Life Safety
- Emergency power systems
- Team Leadership, Budgeting & Vendor Oversight
- Regulatory Compliance & Inspections
Certification
- Electricity, HVAC, Refrigeration
- OSHA 501
- Universal EPA CFC Technician
- Generator Certification (Chief Engineers Association)
- Boiler Operations
- Plumbing, Pneumatic Controls & DDC
- Critical Systems & Commercial Heating/Cooling
- Homeland Security Division
- Asbestos Awareness (CPS)
- Illinois Swimming Pool Operator Certification
- City of Chicago Stationary Engineer License #EN94041
Timeline
Chief Engineer
Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority
01.2014 - Current
Chief Engineer
Hill Mechanical / Chicago Public Schools – Azuela School
01.2010 - 2014
Engineer
Chicago Apparel Center / MMPI
01.2007 - 01.2009
Engineer
Merchandise Mart / MMPI
01.2005 - 01.2007
IUOE Local 399 / Triton College