Head of Hotel Technical

MSC Cruises Management (UK) Limited; City Of London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading cruise line in the UK is seeking a Hotel Engineering Manager to oversee quality control and technical operations across its fleet. You will lead technical projects, ensuring compliance with safety standards while improving guest experience. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in cruise ship engineering and strong leadership skills, along with a diploma in Marine Engineering. This role promises a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• 10+ years’ experience in cruise ship technical engineering.
• 3+ years as Hotel Engineer or Superintendent.
• Strong knowledge of hotel technical systems including HVAC.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee technical planning for hotel engineering and HVAC systems.
• Implement quality control procedures and monitor equipment failures.
• Plan and supervise dry-dock projects and technical upgrades.

Skills

Cruise ship technical engineering

Project planning

Technical quality control

Budget management

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Diploma in Marine Engineering

Unlimited Chief Engineer CoC (STCW Reg. III/2)

Job description

Overview

Job Purpose: To plan, coordinate, and oversee quality control and technical operations for hotel engineering systems across the MSC fleet. The role focuses on planning and execution of technical projects, quality assurance of shipboard hotel systems, and continuous improvement in alignment with safety, compliance, and guest experience objectives.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee technical planning for hotel engineering and HVAC systems, ensuring compliance with international maritime and safety regulations.
• Implement quality control procedures, monitor equipment failures, and ensure corrective actions are executed to minimise operational impact.
• Manage technical budgets (CapEx and OpEx), forecasts, and cost-saving initiatives across fleet hotel systems.
• Plan and supervise dry-dock projects, refits, and technical upgrades, coordinating with contractors, suppliers, and shipyards.
• Conduct ship visits and inspections to verify compliance with standards and regulations.
• Liaise with cross-functional departments (Hotel Ops, F&B, Procurement, Finance) to align on project planning and delivery.
• Ensure accurate project reporting, KPI monitoring, and technical documentation.
• Lead the Hotel Technical section, providing guidance and training to engineers and supervisors.

Qualifications

• 10+ years’ experience in cruise ship technical engineering, including 3+ years as Hotel Engineer or Superintendent.
• Diploma in Marine Engineering + Unlimited Chief Engineer CoC (STCW Reg. III/2).
• Proven expertise in project planning, technical quality control, and budget management.
• Strong knowledge of hotel technical systems (HVAC, galleys, laundry, pools, water treatment).
• Fluent English (oral and written).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong ability to prioritise, meet deadlines, and lead cross-functional projects.