Chief Engineer - The Read House

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

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition reimbursement

Medical, dental, vision

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Life insurance

Employee assistance program

Discounts at hotels/restaurants

Early-wage access (PayActiv)

Holiday pay

Job summary

The Read House in Chattanooga seeks a Chief Engineer to safeguard its historic property. You will lead the engineering team, oversee HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and life-safety systems, and drive preventive maintenance programs to ensure safety, reliability, and elegant guest experiences.

Requirements include 5–10 years in hotel engineering/maintenance leadership, strong budget and vendor management, and hands-on technical excellence with MEP systems. Weekend and on-call flexibility expected.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of hotel/ multi-unit engineering leadership.
• Strong knowledge of MEP systems, safety codes, and PM programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering team; set standards and daily tasks.
• Supervise HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and life-safety systems.
• Oversee preventive maintenance across guest rooms and spaces.
• Manage budgets, inventories, and vendor contracts.
• Direct capital projects with contractors and engineers.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

PM programs

MEP systems

Opera PMS

M3 Accounting

HVAC

Safety codes

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Opera PMS

M3 Accounting

Job description

CHIEF ENGINEER | THE READ HOUSE

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
• Education: Tuition reimbursement program
• 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

EOE / DFWP