Chief Engineer - The Read House

Avocet Hospitality; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vibrant environment

Career growth

Comprehensive benefits

Life & disability insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Paid time off

401(k) with match

Early wage access

Bonus potential

Avocet discounts

Daily perks

Job summary

Avocet Hospitality Group seeks a Chief Engineer for The Read House in Chattanooga to preserve the property's physical legacy. You will oversee all building systems, grounds, and assets, ensuring safety, reliability, and elegant operations for guests and associates.

This role requires 5–10 years in hotel engineering leadership, strong MEP knowledge, and experience with PM software. You will lead the engineering team, manage budgets, vendor contracts, and capital projects while maintaining high

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of hotel or multi-unit engineering/maintenance leadership experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Strong working knowledge of commercial MEP systems, safety codes, and related PM software (Opera PMS & M3 Accounting preferred).

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and inspire the engineering team; supervise Maintenance Supervisor and Technicians.
• Oversee HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, electrical, and related systems across the property.
• Manage preventive maintenance programs for guest rooms, public spaces, and back-of-house areas.
• Direct capital projects and coordinate with contractors, architects, and engineers.
• Ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and emergency readiness.

Skills

Engineering leadership

MEP systems knowledge

Safety codes

Preventive maintenance software

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Opera PMS

M3 Accounting

Job description

Career Opportunities with Avocet Hospitality Group

Current job opportunities are posted here as they become available.

Our organization is defined by one simple word - passion. Everything is geared to providing you a great guest experience in a unique environment, and being served by our team of professionals in a way that makes you stop and say, "This place is different".

As Chief Engineer, you are charged to preserve of The Read House's physical legacy. Combining technical expertise with proven leadership capabilities, you oversee all building systems, grounds, and physical assets - ensuring our iconic, historic property operates at the highest standards of safety, reliability, and timeless elegance for every guest and associate.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

LEADERSHIP & OPERATIONS

• Team Guidance: Lead, coach, and inspire the engineering team; set clear standards, goals, and daily tasks. Directly supervise Maintenance Supervisor and Technicians.
• System Management: Supervise all facility systems including HVAC, refrigeration, heating, plumbing, electrical, laundry/kitchen equipment, and emergency controls.
• Preventive Maintenance: Oversee and track routine PM programs across guest rooms, public spaces, and back-of-house areas.
• Property Care: Maintain grounds, indoor pool chemistry, and exterior presentation to flawless standards.

FINANCIAL & VENDOR MANAGEMENT

• Budget & Inventory: Control supply inventories, manage department checkbooks, and process invoices within general ledger guidelines.
• Vendor Partnerships: Source competitive bids, negotiate vendor contracts, and supervise external service providers.
• Capital Projects: Direct facility improvements, renovations, and equipment upgrades alongside contractors, architects, and engineers.

SAFETY & COMPLIANCE

• Regulatory Standards: Ensure full compliance with OSHA, ADA, EPA, fire, and life safety codes.
• Inspections & Permits: Coordinate and document all city/state inspections (boilers, elevators) and maintain required permits.
• Emergency Readiness: Lead 24/7 property emergency response protocols and oversee safety equipment and PPE compliance.

WHAT YOU BRING

Experience: 5-10 years of hotel or multi-unit complex engineering/maintenance leadership preferred. High school diploma or equivalent required.

Technical Skills: Strong working knowledge of commercial MEP systems, safety codes, and preventive maintenance software (Opera PMS & M3 Accounting experience preferred).

Leadership: Proven track record in budget management, staff development, and cross-departmental collaboration.

Physical Capabilities: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs regularly (100 lbs occasionally), traverse stairs/confined spaces, stand/walk for extended periods, and utilize tools safely.

Schedule Flexibility: Requires flexibility, including availability for weekends, holidays, and 24/7 emergency response.

WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER

• Vibrant Environment: A culture valuing passion, individuality, and fun.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for internal advancement
• Comprehensive Care: Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans
• Peace of Mind: Life, disability, accident, and critical illness insurance
• Personal Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO and paid holidays
• Retirement: Traditional & Roth 401(k) with up to 3.5% employer match
• Flexible Pay: Early access to earned wages via PayActiv
• Bonus Potential: Annual bonus potential of up to 20% of annual salary
• Avocet Discounts: Savings at our hotels and restaurants
• Daily Perks: Discounted Starbucks, employee meals, and garage parking

*2025 WINNER for Chattanooga's Best of the Best Hospitality Employer!*