Chief Engineer

HDG Legacy, LLC; Ocala (FL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

HDG Legacy, LLC is seeking a Chief Engineer for the AC Hotel by Marriott Downtown Ocala to lead engineering operations, ensure reliable building systems, and oversee capital projects with a focus on guest safety and service excellence.

The role requires extensive leadership experience in hospitality engineering, strong vendor management, and a hands-on approach to problem solving to maintain the hotel’s design integrity and brand standards.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within hospitality or high-end business environments.
• Deep technical knowledge of resort systems, including pools, water features, and coastal property maintenance.
• Proven success managing renovations and capital projects in an operating environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead hotel engineering operations to ensure seamless management of property systems and maintenance.
• Partner with Director of Hotel Operations and ownership to drive asset preservation and brand positioning.
• Build and lead a high-performing, service-oriented engineering team.
• Oversee maintenance across guest rooms, public spaces, restaurants, and grounds with strong adherence to safety and brand standards.

Skills

Engineering leadership

Hospitality operations

Capital projects

Job description

HDG Legacy is a culture-driven hospitality company committed to creating meaningful guest experiences, investing in people, and building long-term value for our partners and communities. Our mission is to deliver exceptional hospitality through integrity, operational excellence, and intentional leadership. At the core of our service culture is “Brilliance in the Basics” — the disciplined belief that extraordinary hospitality is achieved through consistent execution of the fundamentals, attention to detail, and genuine care for people.

About Our Property

The AC Hotel by Marriott Downtown Ocala will be a transformative addition to the city’s skyline and hospitality scene. This 179-room, design-forward lifestyle hotel will feature:

A rooftop restaurant and ballroom

An exclusive speakeasy concept

Banquet and event operations

What You Will Have An Opportunity To Do

We are seeking a dynamic and highly skilled Chief Engineer to lead our hotel engineering operations and ensure the seamless management of property systems and maintenance. This pivotal role combines technical expertise with strategic oversight, driving excellence in facilities management, property maintenance, and compliance with all regulations. The ideal candidate will bring a proactive approach, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for maintaining high standards across all property-related functions. Join us to play a key role in fostering safe, efficient, and a well-maintained resort that meet both organizational goals and guest satisfaction.

Serve as a strategic partner to the Director of Hotel Operations and ownership group

Contribute to long-term property planning, asset preservation, and brand positioning

Build and lead a high-performing, service-oriented engineering team

Operations & Property Excellence

Oversee all maintenance and engineering functions across guest rooms, public spaces, restaurants, and grounds

Maintain the property’s distinctive design, finishes, and AC Marriott Brand aesthetic standards

Ensure all building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, irrigation, life safety) operate flawlessly

Hands-On Oversight

Actively engage in day-to-day operations, stepping in when needed to troubleshoot or resolve complex issues

Maintain strong visibility across the property and respond quickly to operational needs

Lead by example in both technical expertise and service excellence

Capital Planning & Projects

Develop and execute capital expenditure plans aligned with ownership goals

Oversee renovations, upgrades, and special projects with a focus on quality craftsmanship and minimal guest disruption

Source and manage local contractors, artisans, and specialty vendors

Prepare and manage departmental budgets with a strong focus on cost efficiency and ROI

Implement energy conservation and sustainability initiatives without compromising guest comfort

Optimize inventory, tools, and staffing levels

Compliance & Risk Management

Ensure full compliance with Florida building codes, safety regulations, and environmental standards

Oversee emergency preparedness, hurricane readiness, and disaster recovery planning

Conduct routine inspections and enforce preventative maintenance programs

Guest Experience Focus

Collaborate closely with Rooms, Food & Beverage, and Front Desk teams to ensure seamless guest experiences

Respond to guest concerns with urgency and discretion, maintaining a AC Marriott brand service mindset

Support customized guest requests and unique property experiences

Qualifications

10+ years of engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within hospitality or high-end business environments

Deep technical knowledge of resort systems, including pools, water features, and coastal property maintenance

Proven success managing renovations and capital projects in an operating environment

Strong leadership presence with a hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves approach

Core Competencies

Entrepreneurial mindset and operational flexibility

Strong ownership mentality and accountability

Attention to detail with a passion for craftsmanship and design integrity

Ability to balance brand standards with practical execution

Decisive leadership in high-pressure situations (e.g., weather events, system failures)

Excellent communication skills across all levels of the organization