Chief Engineer

Job Description

The Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the hotel’s engineering and maintenance operations, including building systems, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, life safety, and preventive maintenance. This role ensures the property remains in excellent condition, operating safely and efficiently, while leading a team of maintenance professionals and working collaboratively with all departments to support guest satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day engineering operations and maintenance of the hotel, including guest rooms, public spaces, back-of-house areas, and grounds

• Develop, implement, and manage preventive maintenance schedules for all systems and equipment using Transcendent

• Supervise, train, and evaluate the engineering and maintenance team; schedule shifts and delegate tasks

• Respond promptly to guest requests and resolve maintenance issues to ensure guest satisfaction

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations regarding fire, life safety, OSHA, and environmental standards

• Monitor energy and utility usage and implement sustainability and cost-saving measures

• Manage maintenance-related purchasing, inventory, and vendor relationships

• Maintain accurate records of inspections, repairs, work orders, equipment logs, and safety procedures using Transcendent

• Coordinate with contractors and outside vendors for major repairs or renovations

• Participate in budget planning and control related to capital projects and departmental expenses

• Conduct regular property walkthroughs to ensure safety, cleanliness, and operational standards are maintained

Must-Have Qualifications

• Language Requirements: Fluent in English (spoken and written)

• High school diploma or equivalent 

• Minimum 5 years of engineering or maintenance experience in a hotel or similar facility

• At least 2 years of supervisory or managerial experience

• Strong working knowledge of building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire/life safety, and mechanical

• Familiarity with state and local building codes, OSHA regulations, and environmental standards

• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills

• Proficient with maintenance software, work order systems, and basic computer skills

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays and on-call availability

Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)

• Proficiency in additional languages such as Spanish and French is a plus

• Trade school, technical certification, or engineering degree 

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8–10 hours per workday)

• Frequent bending, lifting, and reaching to manage supplies and assist staff

• Must be able to lift and carry up to 75 lbs (e.g., boxes, supplies, equipment)

• Comfortable working in fast-paced, high-pressure environments, including hot and/or humid environments.

• Must be comfortable working with tools, ladders, and in confined spaces when necessary

• Exposure to cleaning chemicals, pesticides, herbicides

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Other Information

• FLSA Classification: Exempt 

• Salary Range: $70,000 annually 

• Reports To: General Manager

• Work location: Onsite at The Garden Hotel, Fort Lauderdale, FL, with the opportunity for periodic meetings offsite

• Work environment: Hotel property, including mechanical rooms, rooftops, guest areas, and exterior grounds.

• Work schedule: This position may require availability during evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on business needs. Flexibility in scheduling is essential in a hospitality environment.

Benefits & Perks 

Stay Hospitality offers a competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being and work-life balance. Eligibility for specific benefits may vary based on employment status, job classification, and tenure.

Depending on your role and eligibility, benefits may include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid time off and holidays

• Flexible scheduling options

• Employee discounts at Stay Hospitality properties

• Opportunities for professional development and career growth

Stay Hospitality is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this role. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. Job descriptions are subject to change at the discretion of management.