Chief Engineer

Job Type

Full-time

Description

Job Description
The Chief Engineer is a senior leader responsible for all building operations, preventive maintenance, capital planning, safety, and regulatory compliance. As the head of the Engineering Department, this role ensures that all facilities and technical systems operate safely, efficiently, and in alignment with Palm House's Forbes Five-Star standards.

This position combines strategic oversight with hands-on technical expertise. The Chief Engineer leads engineering operations, manages capital projects, and champions a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. Success in this role requires a highly skilled hospitality engineering professional with strong leadership, advanced system knowledge, and proven project management capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

Facilities Operations & Infrastructure Management

• Oversee daily operations and performance of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, life-safety, and building automation systems.
• Ensure all equipment, utilities, and facilities are maintained to optimum operating standards and in compliance with manufacturer specifications.
• Lead the development, implementation, and continuous refinement of the property's preventive maintenance program.
• Conduct routine inspections of guestrooms, public spaces, exterior areas, and back-of-house facilities to ensure quality, safety, and operational reliability.
• Respond promptly to operational needs and ensure service requests are resolved efficiently with minimal guest impact.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations including OSHA, fire safety, environmental standards, and building codes.
• Maintain accurate documentation for inspections, certifications, permits, and safety logs.
• Lead emergency preparedness and life-safety programs, including fire drills, equipment testing, and staff training.
• Proactively identify and mitigate safety hazards, ensuring a secure environment for guests and employees.

• Oversee capital improvement projects, renovations, and major repairs from planning through execution and closeout.
• Develop project scopes, budgets, and timelines, ensuring alignment with ownership goals and operational priorities.
• Manage contractors and vendor partners to ensure work meets quality standards, timelines, and contractual expectations.
• Evaluate and recommend long-term improvements to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and property condition.

• Lead, mentor, and develop the engineering team, fostering technical excellence, safety consciousness, and strong service culture.
• Assign workloads, monitor performance, and support career development for engineering staff.
• Collaborate closely with Rooms, Housekeeping, F&B, and other departments to support operational initiatives and guest service needs.
• Provide clear communication to executive leadership regarding engineering performance, system health, capital needs, and operational impacts.

• Manage the Engineering Department budget, including labor, operating expenses, and capital expenditures.
• Maintain accurate records for work orders, inventories, equipment history, and maintenance schedules.
• Oversee procurement of tools, parts, and equipment, ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to standards.
• Identify opportunities to optimize energy consumption, increase sustainability, and reduce operational costs.
• Support system integrations, upgrades, and implementation of property technology that enhances building performance and engineering efficiency.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or related technical field required.
• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive engineering management experience, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role within luxury hospitality.
• Comprehensive knowledge of building systems including HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, refrigeration, fire-life safety, and building automation.
• Strong understanding of safety regulations, environmental standards, and preventive maintenance methodologies.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams, manage complex projects, and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced luxury environment.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to maintaining a safe and reliable operation.

• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, and work in tight, elevated, or physically demanding environments for extended periods.
• Capacity to work in varying temperatures, including mechanical rooms, rooftops, and outdoor areas.
• Ability to respond to emergencies after hours, and flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or holidays as operational needs require.