Chief Engineer

Saint-Kate-Arts-Hote; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual and Quarterly Bonus Plan

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401k with employer match

Room discounts

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel is seeking a Chief Engineer to provide strategic leadership for all engineering and facility operations. You will oversee the Engineering team, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with safety standards.

This role involves leading preventive maintenance programs, capital improvement projects, and maintaining relationships with vendors and contractors to support operational needs.

Qualifications

• 5–7 years of progressive engineering or facilities maintenance experience.
• 2 years in a leadership role preferred.
• Strong knowledge of OSHA regulations and preventive maintenance programs.

Responsibilities

• Provide oversight for all engineering and maintenance operations.
• Lead and manage the Engineering team through coaching and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.
• Manage departmental operating and capital budgets.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Technical knowledge

Budget management

Education

Bachelor's or associate's degree in engineering

Tools

CMMS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Description

Whether you're an artist at heart or simply thrive in a dynamic environment, Saint Kate is the space that unites us all under one roof. Here at Saint Kate, we celebrate uniqueness and seek candidates who are passionate about engaging with the world around them. We're not just offering a job; we're offering a chance to dive into the exciting world of creativity, culture, and connection. If you're eager for career growth and new experiences, we have an opening for a Chief Engineer. Under the direction of the Area Director of Engineering, the Chief Engineer provides strategic leadership for all engineering, maintenance, and facility operations, ensuring the property is safe, efficient, and well maintained. This role oversees the Engineering team, preventive maintenance programs, capital projects, budgets, regulatory compliance, and building systems.

Recognized as one of Milwaukee's most esteemed hotels with an elite award repertoire, Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel offers a modern, luxury experience with artistic flair. With a prime location in Milwaukee's Theater District, Saint Kate serves as a creative hub for the city, where every aspect of the hotel is inspired by music, painting, sculpture, and design. As a part of Marcus Hotels & Resorts, we engage a diverse audience of theater enthusiasts, food connoisseurs, and entertainment seekers.

CHIEF ENGINEER

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all engineering, maintenance, life safety, and facility operations to ensure a safe, efficient, and well-maintained property.
• Lead, develop, and manage the Engineering team through hiring, training, coaching, performance management, scheduling, and succession planning.
• Direct and oversee preventive maintenance programs, work order completion, and the repair and operation of all building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, refrigeration, fire life safety, and kitchen equipment.
• Develop and manage departmental operating and capital budgets, including labor, supplies, equipment, utilities, and contracted services, while identifying opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies.
• Plan, prioritize, and oversee capital improvement projects, major repairs, and facility upgrades to protect assets and support long-term property goals.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements, including OSHA standards, fire and life safety regulations, and company policies.
• Partner with hotel leadership to support operational needs, emergency response planning, energy management initiatives, and an exceptional guest and associate experience.
• Maintain effective relationships with vendors, contractors, regulatory agencies, and internal stakeholders while monitoring inventory, purchasing, and facility standards throughout the property.
• Prepare reports, forecasts, and recommendations regarding facility conditions, maintenance trends, and capital needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Bachelor's degree or associate’s degree in engineering, Facilities Management, Construction Management, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive engineering or facilities maintenance experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Previous hotel, resort, hospitality, healthcare, or large commercial facilities experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in the operation, maintenance, and repair of:
• HVAC and refrigeration systems
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing systems
• Mechanical equipment
• Building automation and control systems
• Fire alarm and life safety systems
• Commercial kitchen equipment
• Building structure, finishes, fixtures, and equipment
• Strong knowledge of OSHA regulations, Lockout/Tagout procedures, life safety standards, environmental compliance, and preventive maintenance programs.
• Experience managing operating budgets, capital expenditures, vendor contracts, and project planning.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, technical manuals, and construction documents.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to build, motivate, and develop high-performing teams.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with guests, associates, contractors, and leadership.
• Proficiency with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), work order systems, Microsoft Office, and other reporting tools.
• Ability to respond to emergencies and work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as operational needs require.
• Professional appearance, demeanor, and commitment to delivering exceptional service.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU

• Department Head Annual and Quarterly Bonus Plan
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (offered after 30 days of employment), company-paid life insurance, and employee assistance program offer.
• 401k with employer match.
• Room discounts at Marcus Hotels & Resorts, discounts at Marcus Hotels & Resorts restaurants, golfing, skiing and spa and discounts at Marcus Theaters.
• Paid Time off & Paid Holidays.
• Discounted downtown parking.
• Career growth opportunities.

ABOUT US

A division of The Marcus Corporation, Marcus Hotels & Resorts has a rich 60-year history of operational and service excellence. We are “People Pleasing People” who strive daily to create extraordinary experiences for guests and associates alike. Focused on expanding our U.S.-based portfolio of 16 hotels and resorts, our properties are known for their unique character and style.

Note: This document describes the general nature and level of work required of people in the job. It is not intended to be an all-encompassing list of responsibilities, duties, and skills.

Saint Kate is an equal opportunity employer.