Chief Engineer

The First Group Hospitality; Dubai; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A premier hospitality management company in Dubai is seeking a Chief Engineer to ensure operational excellence in its hospitality real estate portfolio. This role requires over 10 years of engineering experience, including 5 years in a leadership position. Candidates should possess strong technical knowledge of MEP systems and exceptional project management skills. Join a dynamic team committed to redefining luxury in the hospitality sector.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of engineering experience with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in hotel/residential building maintenance.
• Professional certification (e.g., PMP, LEED) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily engineering and maintenance operations.
• Manage renovation and CapEx projects.
• Lead and mentor engineering staff.
• Prepare annual engineering budgets.
• Ensure compliance with local building codes.
• Identify energy-saving initiatives.

Skills

Technical knowledge across MEP systems

Project management

Budgeting skills

Communication capabilities

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering

Tools

BMS systems

CMMS software

MS Office Suite

Job description

Overview

Be part of an iconic hospitality landmark.

Ciel Dubai Marina, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ prestigious Vignette Collection, is set to redefine luxury as the world’s tallest hotel. The First Group’s flagship development featuring 1,004 elegantly designed guestrooms, 8 stunning dining destinations, 3 outdoor swimming pools, breathtaking floor-to-ceiling panoramic views, and an array of world-class amenities, Ciel offers an unparalleled hospitality experience.

Designed by the award-winning architectural firm, NORR Group, Ciel has already garnered prestigious industry accolades, including the 2019 International Property Awards for Best International Hotel Architecture and Best Hotel Architecture Arabia. This international recognition establishes Ciel as a landmark development and a symbol of innovation in the hospitality industry.

Join our dynamic team committed to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences and unlock endless opportunities for professional growth with Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection.

About The First Group Hospitality

The First Group Hospitality is a leading hospitality management company pioneering a new era of excellence. With a rapidly expanding portfolio of award-winning upscale hotels, signature restaurants, and distinctive leisure destinations, we are committed to creating unforgettable experiences at every touchpoint.

Our team of seasoned professionals brings decades of experience from renowned hotel brands, combined with a deep understanding of the Dubai and GCC markets. With a comprehensive infrastructure spanning all key areas of hotel management, we offer tailored solutions to maximise efficiency, drive revenue growth, and enhance guest satisfaction.

At The First Group Hospitality, we are dedicated to building long-term partnerships with our clients. By leveraging our global insights, regional expertise, and strong operational foundation, we ensure that every aspect of your hotel is managed with precision and care. Our goal is to optimise performance, boost profitability, and deliver sustainable growth for your property.

Job Description

The Chief Engineer plays a critical leadership role in ensuring the operational excellence, safety, and efficiency of all engineering and maintenance functions across the company’s hospitality real estate portfolio. This includes oversight of hotels, serviced apartments, and mixed-use developments. The role involves strategic planning, team leadership, project execution, and adherence to compliance standards to ensure that all physical assets are maintained to the highest standards. Working closely with property management, operations, and external contractors, the Chief Engineer is responsible for the performance and reliability of all building systems while aligning engineering efforts with the company’s vision for quality, sustainability, and guest satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Maintenance

• Oversee daily engineering and maintenance operations across the portfolio.
• Ensure HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire life safety systems, elevators, and other critical infrastructure function efficiently and reliably.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance schedules.
• Respond promptly to breakdowns and emergencies to minimize downtime.

Project Management

• Manage renovation, refurbishment, and CapEx projects.
• Collaborate with architects, consultants, and contractors during design and execution phases.
• Monitor project timelines, costs, and quality standards.

Team Leadership

• Lead, train, and mentor engineering staff at various properties.
• Ensure appropriate staffing and professional development of team members.
• Promote a culture of accountability, technical excellence, and safety.

Budgeting & Procurement

• Prepare annual engineering budgets, including CapEx and OpEx plans.
• Control expenditures and manage procurement of tools, parts, and services.
• Evaluate and negotiate vendor contracts.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with local building codes, health and safety regulations, and environmental standards.
• Conduct routine safety inspections and risk assessments.
• Maintain proper documentation and certifications for all equipment and systems.

Sustainability & Efficiency

• Identify and implement energy-saving and sustainability initiatives.
• Track utility consumption and seek opportunities to reduce waste and costs.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering (or related field).
• Professional certification or license (e.g., PMP, LEED, CEng) is a plus.

Experience

• 10+ years of engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within the hospitality or real estate sector.
• Proven track record in hotel/residential building maintenance and project delivery.

Skills

• Strong technical knowledge across MEP systems and building operations.
• Excellent project management and budgeting skills.
• Proficient in using BMS systems, CMMS software, and MS Office Suite.
• Strong communication and leadership capabilities.