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, asset protection, preventive maintenance, and repairs.
• 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.
• Ensure preventative maintenance programs are in place to protect assets and address maintenance issues promptly.
• 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 resolve problems and ensure a safe environment.
• Generate cost comparisons and solicit bids/proposals as needed; submit recommendations for improvements to the General Manager.
• Direct all emergency programs, including equipment maintenance, staff training, drills, and compliance with policies and regulations.
• Promote an accident prevention program to minimize liabilities and related expenses.
• Ensure sanitary, safety, security, and emergency procedures are in place and followed.
• Train staff in safety, security, and emergency procedures.
• Communicate with department heads to address maintenance needs and ensure timely responses to internal requests.
• Supervise and review costs, inventory, and staffing adjustments based on hotel traffic.
• Conduct disciplinary actions and performance evaluations (90-day and annual) for the 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.
• Maintain open communication channels across all levels and monitor employee relations.
• Ensure all required licenses, permits, contracts, and insurance are in proper order.
• Submit all corporate, divisional, and governmental reports as required.
• Conduct daily property inspections to identify areas needing improvement.
• Hire, develop, and retain top talent, utilizing brand interviewing tools and succession planning.
• Manage employee progressive discipline procedures and ensure fair administration of hotel policies.
• Conduct regular meetings with Engineering staff to provide organizational updates and training.
• Support Public Relations initiatives and maintain a professional, service-oriented attitude.

Qualifications

• Five or more years of related experience in building management/engineering.
• Substantial and successful track record in profitable Engineering management while maintaining integrity and professionalism.
• Familiarity with hospitality industry practices preferred.
• Minimum of three years of managerial experience, involving decision-making, meeting deadlines, contract negotiations, and large-scale 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 for budgeting and calculations.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit for the duration of a shift.
• Capable of working in hot, cold, and wet conditions.
• Ability to stoop, kneel, crawl, and climb on various surfaces, including stairs and ladders up to 30 feet in the air.
• Hearing and visual ability to detect emergency situations.
• Grasping, lifting, and holding tools; good finger dexterity required.
• Perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, kneeling, and walking significant distances within and between buildings.
• 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.