Assistant Chief Engineer

Kaizen Lab Inc.; Saint Augustine (FL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Kaizen Lab Inc. in Saint Augustine, Florida is looking for an Assistant Chief Engineer to support the Chief Engineer in maintaining the resort's standards of operation. This role encompasses overseeing daily engineering operations, guest maintenance requests, and compliance with safety and environmental regulations, ensuring an exceptional experience for guests.

The ideal candidate will possess strong technical skills, supervisory experience, and a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship. This position requires flexibility to work various hours, including holidays and emergencies.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of engineering/maintenance experience in hospitality or similar environment.
• Previous supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong communication skills necessary.

Responsibilities

• Assist in managing daily engineering operations.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Respond promptly to guest maintenance requests.

Skills

HVAC knowledge

Electrical systems

Plumbing systems

Problem-solving

Leadership abilities

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical or vocational training

Tools

CMMS systems

Job description

Position Summary

The Assistant Chief Engineer supports the Chief Engineer in overseeing all engineering, maintenance, and safety operations of the resort. This role ensures the property is maintained to the highest standards, with a strong focus on guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, and compliance with safety and environmental regulations—particularly those unique to an oceanfront environment.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Maintenance

• Assist in managing daily engineering operations, including preventative maintenance and repair programs.
• Ensure all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and pool systems operate efficiently and safely.
• Oversee maintenance of guest rooms, public areas, back-of-house, and beachfront facilities.
• Support capital improvement projects and renovations.

Oceanfront & Environmental Considerations

• Monitor and maintain equipment exposed to salt air corrosion (HVAC units, railings, lighting, etc.).
• Ensure proper upkeep of beach access points, dune walkovers, and outdoor amenities.
• Assist in storm preparedness and recovery operations (hurricanes, coastal flooding, high winds).
• Ensure compliance with local coastal, environmental, and sustainability regulations.

Leadership & Team Management

• Supervise and train engineering and maintenance staff.
• Assist in scheduling, task delegation, and performance management.
• Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and service excellence.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, fire safety, and local building codes.
• Conduct routine safety inspections and maintain logs.
• Assist in emergency response procedures, including evacuations and power outages.
• Maintain proper documentation for inspections, certifications, and regulatory requirements.

Guest Experience

• Respond promptly to guest maintenance requests and ensure timely resolution.
• Work closely with Front Office and Housekeeping to minimize guest disruption.
• Uphold resort standards for cleanliness, functionality, and aesthetics.

Administrative Duties

• Assist with budgeting, inventory control, and procurement of supplies and equipment.
• Maintain maintenance logs, work orders, and preventative maintenance schedules (CMMS systems preferred).
• Track energy usage and recommend efficiency improvements.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical or vocational training preferred.
• 3–5 years of engineering/maintenance experience in hospitality, resort, or similar environment.
• Previous supervisory experience preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and general building systems.
• Experience with pool systems and water chemistry preferred.
• Familiarity with preventative maintenance systems (CMMS).

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and emergency situations.
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, climb, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Comfortable working indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to respond quickly during emergencies.