Chief Engineer

About the Role

Driftwood Hospitality Management’s company culture empowers associates to take initiative, be proactive, and contribute to the success of their property with well-defined strategies and objectives. The Chief Engineer directs all aspects of engineering operations including emergency programs, energy management, asset protection, preventive maintenance, and repairs to equipment, structures, and grounds. This role oversees the Engineering staff, accounting/budgeting, asset protection, inventory control, and human resources, ensuring alignment with the General Manager, company goals, brand standards, and local, state, and national regulations. The Chief Engineer is responsible for quality service, financial performance, short- and long-term planning, and day-to-day operations.

Responsibilities

• Direct all facets of Engineering operations, including emergency programs, energy management, and preventive maintenance.
• Keep abreast of brand standards and competitive products to improve revenues and profit margins while maintaining quality.
• Implement, manage, and comply with company policies, practices, and programs.
• Ensure compliance with brand standards and local, state, and national regulations.
• Conduct daily property walks to identify issues and engage with associates.
• Inspect and evaluate the condition of engineering areas, equipment, and inventories.
• Investigate, analyze, and report on all incidents and accidents.
• Coordinate with local and federal agencies, fire companies, and insurance agencies to ensure a safe environment.
• Generate cost comparisons and solicit bids/proposals as needed.
• Direct all emergency programs, including equipment maintenance, staff training, and compliance with regulations.
• Promote an accident prevention program to minimize liabilities and related expenses.
• Ensure sanitary, safety, security, and emergency procedures are followed.
• Communicate with hotel department heads to address maintenance needs and ensure timely responses.
• Supervise and review costs, inventory, and staffing adjustments.
• Conduct disciplinary actions and performance evaluations for engineering staff.
• Ensure high levels of guest satisfaction and build long-term customer relationships.
• Respond to and resolve guest problems and complaints.
• Participate in the development and implementation of corrective action plans.
• Demonstrate leadership and hold self and others accountable for achieving results.
• Maintain open communication channels and foster positive work relationships.
• Ensure all required licenses, permits, contracts, and inspections are in proper order.
• Proactively identify and develop talent within the organization.
• Maintain succession planning and ensure fair administration of hotel policies.
• Actively pursue learning and self-development to enhance personal and professional growth.
• Support public relations initiatives and maintain a professional attitude.

Qualifications

• Five or more years of related experience in building management/engineering, with a substantial and successful track record in profitable engineering management.
• Familiarity with the hospitality industry practices preferred.
• Minimum of three years of managerial experience, involving decision-making, meeting deadlines, contract negotiations, and project coordination.

Skills

• Ability to schedule, manage, and delegate work effectively and efficiently.
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.
• Computer literacy in MS Word and Excel.
• Complex mathematical skills and proficiency in using Excel spreadsheets for budgeting and calculations.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit for the duration of the shift.
• Must be able to work in hot, cold, and wet conditions.
• Ability to stoop, kneel, crawl, and climb on various surfaces.
• Hearing and visual ability to detect emergency situations.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders rapidly, up to 30 feet in the air.
• Grasping, lifting, and holding tools with good finger dexterity.
• Perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, kneeling, and walking significant distances.
• Lifting and moving objects up to 100 pounds.
• Frequent twisting, bending, stooping, reaching, standing, walking, talking, hearing, seeing, and smiling.

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan.