Overview

The Director of Engineering is responsible for all administrative, financial and operating aspects of the hotel as they directly relate to the engineering division. He/she is responsible for the safe and profitable operation of the hotel.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline strongly preferred. Equivalent professional experience may be considered.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive engineering/facilities management experience, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership or Director of Engineering role at a luxury hotel, resort, or large-scale hospitality property.
• Demonstrated track record of overseeing complex building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, life-safety, elevators, mechanical, BMS).
• Proven success managing capital improvement projects, property renovations, and large-scale preventive maintenance programs in a luxury setting.
• Experience with historic or landmark properties is highly desirable, especially managing upgrades while preserving architectural integrity.
• Previous experience leading unionized engineering teams is preferred.

Licenses & Certifications

• Certified Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Plant Engineer (CPE), or Facilities Management certification (CFM, FMA, or similar) highly preferred.
• OSHA 10/30 and EPA Universal Technician certifications strongly preferred.
• LEED Accreditation or certification in sustainability/energy management a plus.

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead the Engineering & Maintenance department, providing direction, mentorship, and professional development for team members.
• Implement preventive maintenance programs to extend equipment life and minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on capital planning, renovations, and energy conservation initiatives.
• Contribute to overall property strategy and decision-making as part of the hotel’s Executive Committee.

Operations & Maintenance

• Oversee daily repair, upkeep, and functionality of HVAC, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and building systems.
• Ensure guestrooms, public areas, back-of-house, and exterior areas meet luxury brand standards.
• Manage third-party contractors and service providers, ensuring projects meet safety, quality, and budgetary expectations.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, repairs, and compliance documentation.

Safety, Compliance & Sustainability

• Ensure full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA, fire safety, and environmental requirements.
• Lead hotel safety initiatives, including life-safety systems, fire drills, and emergency preparedness.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the engineering department budget, covering operating expenses and capital expenditures.
• Monitor costs, implement efficiency measures, and ensure resource optimization.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and train all Engineering staff in Customer Service, Empowerment, Standard Operating Procedures and Loss Prevention Standards.
• Create, approve and post all Engineering staff schedules according to Highgate Hotel standards.
• Create and adhere to annual budget for department.
• Develop financial forecasts and actively participate in monthly profit/loss review meetings.
• Develop and implement plans to maintain property, equipment, grounds and other assets in an acceptable state of repair.
• Ensure the hotel is in compliance with all local, state and federal laws.
• Create and implement a preventive maintenance program for all hotel equipment.
• Ensure that all emergency and life safety equipment and systems are inspected, tested and certified per Highgate Hotel standards.
• Ensure that room maintenance requests are handled in a prompt and courteous manner.
• Follow up on all alarms immediately to determine location and cause; determine emergency status and report findings to Front Desk; take immediate action as necessary.
• Assist as necessary with special projects and renovations.
• Actively participate in energy conservation programs.
• Review guest and meeting planner comment cards to identify and correct problems in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Administer all vendor contracts controlled by the engineering department.
• Support and participate in all Highgate Hotel programs.
• Lead and participate in Highgate Hotel Safety Committee.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of progressive facilities management experience in a hotel or a related field; or a 4-year college degree and at least 1 year of related management experience; or a 2-year college degree and 3 or more years of related management experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Stationary Engineer’s license if required by local code.
• HVAC, electrical, plumbing, boiler operations and general maintenance skills required.
• Long hours sometimes required; physical ability to perform required tasks.
• Travel related to company business sometimes required.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills; ability to multitask and prioritize.
• Commitment to safety, service, and brand standards.

Senioritiy level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Engineering and Information Technology

Industries

• Hospitality

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