Description

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced, hands-on Chief Engineer to oversee the engineering operations of our full-service hotel. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hotel maintenance and engineering, preferably within a nationally recognized, full-service hotel brand. This position requires a proactive leader who can balance daily maintenance operations, preventative maintenance programs, and property improvements while maintaining high standards of safety, quality, and guest satisfaction.

This is a hands-on leadership position, not a strictly supervisory or administrative role. The Chief Engineer must be willing and capable of performing daily maintenance tasks, including plumbing repairs, painting guest rooms, replacing light bulbs, troubleshooting equipment, and general property upkeep. Equally important is a willingness to support other departments and assist with daily hotel operations whenever needed. No hotel task should be considered beneath this position. We are seeking a leader who takes initiative, leads by example, and understands that the success of the property depends on everyone working together.

We are looking for an individual who takes ownership of the property's physical condition, anticipates maintenance needs, and is comfortable working alongside engineering associates to troubleshoot problems and complete repairs. Experience with hotel renovations, brand transitions, and maintaining older buildings is especially valuable.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Operations and Hands-On Maintenance

• Lead and manage daily engineering operations while maintaining an active, hands-on role in property maintenance and repairs.
• Personally perform routine maintenance, repairs, painting, plumbing, electrical troubleshooting, and general property upkeep as needed and within applicable licensing and safety requirements.
• Take an active role in completing maintenance work orders rather than relying exclusively on engineering associates or outside contractors.
• Demonstrate a willingness to handle tasks of all sizes, from minor cosmetic repairs to complex mechanical issues.
• Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive preventative maintenance program for guest rooms, public areas, and building systems.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and perform repairs involving HVAC, plumbing, electrical, mechanical equipment, and general building maintenance.
• Conduct regular property inspections to identify maintenance concerns, safety issues, and opportunities for improvement.
• Maintain guest rooms, public spaces, and exterior areas in accordance with established property standards.
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of critical building systems, including fire and life safety equipment, elevators, HVAC, and access control systems.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, equipment servicing, inspections, and preventative maintenance.

Brand Standards and Quality Assurance

• Ensure the property consistently meets established hotel brand standards and Quality Assurance (QA) requirements through routine inspections, preventative maintenance, documentation, and timely correction of deficiencies.
• Support property improvement projects, renovations, brand transitions, and quality assurance inspections.
• Identify and address maintenance deficiencies before they negatively affect guest satisfaction or property performance.
• Maintain a proactive approach to property presentation, cleanliness, and overall physical condition.

Leadership, Collaboration, and Property Culture

• Lead, train, mentor, and develop engineering associates while promoting accountability, safety, and a positive working environment.
• Actively contribute to a positive, collaborative property culture by building strong working relationships with associates, department leaders, and management.
• Support other departments and assist with property operations outside of engineering when operational needs require additional assistance.
• Participate in property meetings, associate appreciation activities, management events, and other initiatives that promote engagement and a sense of community.
• Lead by example by demonstrating a willingness to assist others, remain involved in daily property activities, and contribute to the overall success of the property.
• Collaborate with housekeeping, front office, and other departments to address maintenance concerns promptly and minimize guest disruptions.
• Consistently demonstrate professionalism in appearance, conduct, and communication while representing property leadership.

Manager on Duty and Operational Support

• Serve as Manager on Duty (MOD) as assigned, providing management coverage during designated shifts or periods of reduced staffing.
• Act as the primary management contact on property when assigned, assisting guests, resolving concerns, responding to emergencies, and making operational decisions within established guidelines.
• Provide engineering leadership and Manager on Duty coverage during weekends, holidays, and other designated periods as assigned.
• Maintain a visible and approachable management presence throughout the property.
• Support guest service initiatives and assist with operational challenges beyond the engineering department when needed.

Safety, Compliance, and Financial Management

• Ensure compliance with applicable building codes, OSHA requirements, fire and life safety regulations, and environmental standards.
• Coordinate and supervise outside contractors, vendors, and service providers to ensure quality work and cost-effective solutions.
• Manage engineering expenses, maintain appropriate supply inventories, and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency.
• Monitor maintenance costs, evaluate equipment replacement needs, and recommend property improvements.
• Respond to emergency maintenance situations and coordinate appropriate corrective actions.

Skills and Qualifications

• Previous experience in hotel engineering, building maintenance, or a related facilities management position.
• Prior experience as a Chief Engineer, Assistant Chief Engineer, or Engineering Supervisor in a full-service hotel preferred.
• Experience working with a nationally recognized hotel brand and familiarity with brand standards and quality assurance inspections preferred.
• Experience with major hotel brand Quality Assurance (QA) requirements, inspection processes, and corrective action plans preferred.
• Strong hands-on technical knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, electrical, mechanical systems, and general building repairs.
• Must have a demonstrated hands-on maintenance background and be willing to personally perform repairs, preventative maintenance, and general property upkeep on a daily basis.
• Demonstrated experience developing and managing preventative maintenance programs.
• Ability to independently diagnose problems, troubleshoot equipment, and perform necessary repairs.
• Experience maintaining older buildings and addressing the challenges associated with existing infrastructure preferred.
• Experience with hotel renovations, property improvement plans, or brand conversions is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with electronic door locks, access control systems, and building automation technology preferred.
• Working knowledge of applicable building codes, OSHA standards, and fire and life safety requirements.
• Strong organizational, leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong guest service skills and the ability to confidently handle guest concerns, resolve conflicts, and represent property management professionally.
• Demonstrated commitment to collaboration, associate engagement, and fostering a positive workplace culture.
• Willingness to actively participate in property activities, support colleagues across departments, and contribute beyond traditional engineering responsibilities.
• Maintain a professional appearance and adhere to established property grooming, dress code, and personal presentation standards.
• Ability to prioritize multiple maintenance projects while responding to daily operational needs.
• Experience managing maintenance budgets, outside contractors, and vendor relationships.
• Relevant technical certifications or trade licenses are preferred but not required.
• Must have the flexibility to work a schedule based on the operational needs of the property, including weekends, holidays, and evenings as necessary. This is not a traditional Monday-through-Friday position.
• Must be available to respond to after-hours maintenance emergencies and critical property situations as needed.

Join Our Organization

We are looking for more than an experienced Chief Engineer. We are looking for someone who wants to be part of building something great. Someone who takes pride in their work, believes in leading by example, and understands that no hotel task is beneath them. We value leaders who are engaged, approachable, willing to roll up their sleeves, and genuinely invested in the success of their colleagues and the property.

We may be a small property, but we have big ambitions. We are building a culture of pride, accountability, collaboration, and genuine appreciation for one another. We want someone who shares that vision, brings energy and enthusiasm to work, and wants to be part of something special.

We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth within a supportive and collaborative working environment.

We may be small, but we will be mighty.