Assistant Chief Engineer | Hotel Engineering Lead

Melrosehoteldc; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa is seeking an experienced Assistant Chief Engineer to oversee engineering operations, manage preventive maintenance, and lead the department in the Chief Engineer's absence. You will coordinate budgets, safety practices, and vendor activity while ensuring reliable service for guests and staff.

Qualified candidates have lead or supervisory experience, strong HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and building systems knowledge, plus PM/CMMS proficiency.

Qualifications

• Hands-on leadership and supervisory capabilities.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC systems and building infrastructure.
• Familiarity with electrical up to 480V and plumbing systems.
• Experience with kitchen equipment and pool/spa operations.
• Ability to read blueprints and schematics; interpret test equipment.
• Experience with PM and CMMS systems; strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; train staff effectively.
• Commitment to safety, SDS/MSDS adherence and OSHA procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assist Chief Engineer in meeting operational standards in the Engineering dept.
• Act as Engineering head in Chief Engineer's absence with full authority.
• Serve as MOD and participate in leadership rotation.
• Supervise PM programs, assign work orders, and ensure records accuracy.
• Manage budgeting, capex requests, and project planning.
• Monitor equipment logs and utility usage; support energy initiatives.
• Coordinate 3rd party vendors and ensure safety compliance.
• Respond to emergencies on-site or remotely; lead after-hours response.
• Provide hands-on support when needed and train staff in safety practices.

Skills

Lead/Supervisory Experience

HVAC Knowledge

Electrical up to 480V

Plumbing

Kitchen Equipment

Pools/Spas

Building Construction

Read Blueprints/Schematics

Troubleshooting/Problem Solving

Preventive Maintenance Systems

Communication Skills

Training Hourly Staff

Microsoft Office

Safety Procedures (SDS/MSDS)

On-Call Emergency Response

Education

Vocational Training / Associate Degree / Apprenticeship

EPA Universal (608) Certification

CPO (Certified Pool Operator) Certification

State Certification/Licensure Where Required

Job description

Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa is seeking an experienced Assistant Chief Engineer to oversee engineering operations, manage preventive maintenance, and lead the department in the Chief Engineer's absence. You will coordinate budgets, safety practices, and vendor activity while ensuring reliable service for guests and staff.

Qualified candidates have lead or supervisory experience, strong HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and building systems knowledge, plus PM/CMMS proficiency.