Assistant Chief Engineer - Hotel Operations & Emergencies

One Ocean Resort & Spa; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa is seeking an Assistant Chief Engineer to oversee the Engineering department and ensure reliable hotel operations in Costa Mesa, CA. You will manage daily engineering tasks, supervise staff, and coordinate preventive maintenance and safety programs.

In this role, you’ll respond to emergencies, supervise vendors, assist with budgeting, and lead the team in the Chief Engineer's absence to maintain guest comfort and asset integrity.

Qualifications

• Previous hotel or commercial building engineering experience, including at least 1 year in a lead or supervisory role.
• Strong hands-on knowledge of HVAC systems, electrical (up to 480V), plumbing, and building systems.
• Trade training and/or certification; EPA Universal (608) and CPO are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Chief Engineer in meeting all operational standards within the Engineering department.
• Act as Engineering lead in the Chief Engineer's absence with full authority.
• Serve as MOD and participate in the hotel’s leadership rotation.
• Maintain equipment status, work orders, vendor activity, and safety concerns.
• Assist in budgeting, capital projects, and PM program planning.
• Oversee PM program and ensure proper documentation and training for staff.
• Respond to after-hours emergencies on-site or by phone when required.
• Direct responses to critical system failures and coordinate with on-shift engineers and vendors.
• Document emergencies, actions taken, and debrief with Chief Engineer.

Skills

HVAC systems

Electrical work 480V

Plumbing

Building maintenance

Emergency response

Blueprints reading

PM systems

Communication

Leadership

Safety compliance

Education

Vocational training / Associate's degree

EPA Universal (608) certification

CPO (Certified Pool Operator)

State certification/licensure

Tools

CMMS software

Microsoft Office

Test equipment (multimeter, manometer)

Job description

Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa is seeking an Assistant Chief Engineer to oversee the Engineering department and ensure reliable hotel operations in Costa Mesa, CA. You will manage daily engineering tasks, supervise staff, and coordinate preventive maintenance and safety programs.

In this role, you’ll respond to emergencies, supervise vendors, assist with budgeting, and lead the team in the Chief Engineer's absence to maintain guest comfort and asset integrity.