Chief Engineer

Homewood Suites by Hilton; Princeton (NJ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Soartress Hospitality, managing Homewood Suites by Hilton, is seeking a seasoned Chief Engineer to oversee maintenance, life-safety systems, and facility operations across the hotel. You will supervise maintenance technicians, manage budgets and vendor relationships, and ensure adherence to brand standards and all codes while coordinating repairs from HVAC to plumbing.

This leadership role requires strong communication, flexible scheduling, and a proactive approach to guest comfort, safety, and

Qualifications

• Experience supervising maintenance teams and engineers.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and maintenance expenses.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and safety systems.
• Ability to read and interpret codes and standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform preventive, general and emergency maintenance promptly.
• Manage maintenance expenses including labor and supplies.
• Coordinate with the General Manager to meet brand standards and guest satisfaction.
• Troubleshoot and repair HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and related systems.
• Supervise, train, and schedule maintenance staff.
• Maintain exterior and curb appeal; handle safety reporting and recordkeeping.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team Building

Flexible Scheduling

Physical Stamina

Job description

Soartress Hospitality is seeking a skilled Chief Engineer for our Homewood Suites by Hilton. The Chief Engineer directs all aspects of maintenance operation including, but not limited to, property and equipment preventative maintenance and repairs, monitors life safety systems and utilities and administers the department in compliance with all corporate and brand standards as well as local, state and national codes and regulations to protect guests, assets and associates. The Chief Engineer is also responsible for the preventative maintenance and repair of the hotel’s mechanical and electrical systems and equipment as well as the upkeep of the physical building, grounds, swimming pool, etc. The Chief Engineer may also supervise other maintenance technicians.

Requirements:

• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Self-starting personality with an even disposition
• Strong leadership and team building skills
• Willing to “pitch-in” and help associates when needed
• Flexible schedule and attendance are crucial
• This position may require physical mobility including, but not limited to, bending, carrying, climbing stairs, reaching or squatting

Essential Job Functions:

Operational and Financial Management

• Perform general, preventative and emergency maintenance in a timely manner
• Effectively support the control and management of all maintenance operational expenses including labor, overtime, supplies, etc.
• Work closely with the General Manager to ensure the hotel meets and/or exceeds brand standards for guest satisfaction in regard to repairs, maintenance and installations
• Troubleshoot and repair malfunctions in mechanical or electrical systems, such as HVAC, plumbing, etc. and other equipment throughout the hotel
• Service the hotel’s pool, including adjusting chemicals and cleaning filters as well as daily chemical testing
• Assure optimum performance of all hotel equipment and machinery by instituting systems, checks and procedures including preventative maintenance strategies for equipment, machinery, furnishings and infrastructure in areas including, but not limited to, parking lot, swimming pool, fitness center, dining areas, kitchen, guest rooms, corridors, lobby, entrances, exits, roof, elevator equipment rooms, front-of-house and back-of-house areas
• Maintain timely and accurate reporting and recordkeeping as required including accurate filing and upkeep of maintenance requests and preventative maintenance records
• Maximize guest comfort and safety by monitoring and managing lighting, temperature, maintenance, and sanitation throughout the property
• Serve as a project manager for hotel renovations when necessary
• Perform repairs and test equipment ranging from HVAC and refrigeration units to kitchen equipment, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, sheet metal, tile repair, roof repair, welding, painting, and masonry in a safe and timely manner
• Maintains a work order assignment program for completed and pending work orders
• Supervise, train, and schedule all maintenance technicians and hourly engineers
• Communicate with hotel departments to become aware of maintenance needs and ensure timely response to internal requests
• Maintain the building exterior and “curb appeal” (snow removal, lawn care, painting and gardening)
• Maintain brand standards and follow-up on inspection deficiencies

Managing the Associate Experience

• Stay readily available and approachable for all associates
• Interview, hire, supervise and counsel associates in the efficient operation of the maintenance department
• Motivate, coach and train maintenance associates while setting goals and holding the team accountable by providing feedback and recognition
• Minimize safety hazards by practicing safety and following all safety rules and procedures
• Educates hotel staff on emergency procedures and safety precautions

Managing the Guest Experience

• Ensure the safety and security of all guests by adhering to hotel security policies and procedures, particularly regarding key controls and effectively reporting safety hazards and concerns
• Ensure the property meets/exceeds company and brand standards