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, brand standards, and local, state, and national regulations. The Chief Engineer is responsible for quality service, meeting or exceeding financial goals, 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 competition 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 staff training, drills, and compliance with regulations.
• Promote an accident prevention program to minimize liabilities.
• Ensure sanitary, safety, security, and emergency procedures are followed.
• Communicate with 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.
• Develop and implement corrective action plans based on guest feedback.
• Demonstrate leadership in guest hospitality and set a positive example for guest relations.
• Maintain open communication channels and foster positive work relationships.
• Conduct one-on-one meetings with direct reports for ongoing development.
• Ensure all licenses, permits, contracts, and inspections are in proper order.
• Submit required corporate, divisional, and governmental reports promptly.
• Proactively identify and develop talent within the organization.
• Hire, train, and manage employees fairly and equitably.
• Maintain succession planning and ensure completion of training initiatives.
• Actively pursue learning and self-development to enhance professional growth.
• Support Public Relations initiatives and maintain a professional attitude.
• Conduct regularly scheduled meetings with Engineering staff to communicate updates and changes.

Qualifications

Experience

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

Knowledge and Skills

• Ability to schedule, manage, and delegate work effectively.
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.
• Computer literacy in MS Word and Excel.
• Complex mathematical skills for budget preparation and financial calculations.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit for the duration of the shift.
• Ability to work in hot, cold, and wet conditions.
• Capability 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.