Hotel Engineering Director: Building Systems & Safety

La Bahia Hotel; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

La Bahia Hotel is seeking a Director of Engineering to lead the property's engineering team and maintain top-tier building performance and guest safety. The role requires strong technical expertise, strategic planning, and collaboration with contractors and hotel leadership to ensure smooth operations across all venues including rooms, spa, F&B outlets, and back‑of‑house areas.

The ideal candidate has a demonstrated track record in hotel engineering, experience in pre‑opening activities, and a

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Hotel Chief Engineer or similar leadership role in hotel operations.
• Experience with hotel openings, pre-opening inspections, and system commissioning preferred.
• 3-5 years of experience in hotel, institutional, or HVAC systems.
• HVAC certification and refrigeration experience required.
• Strong working knowledge of electrical, mechanical, life safety, and preventive maintenance systems.
• Budget management, cost control, and financial responsibility experience (stationary engineering license preferred).
• Valid driver's license required.
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members, contractors, and leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the engineering team to ensure tasks are completed on time and to high standards.
• Oversee day-to-day maintenance and performance of building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, life safety) across the property.
• Perform regular inspections to identify deficiencies and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
• Maintain preventative maintenance schedules and standard operating procedures to optimize efficiency.
• Provide technical guidance to junior engineers and maintenance staff.
• Collaborate with other departments to support operations and guest satisfaction.
• Recruit, train, and develop engineering staff for ongoing readiness and high performance.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Contractor coordination

Preventive maintenance

Budgeting

HVAC systems

Electrical systems

Job description

La Bahia Hotel is seeking a Director of Engineering to lead the property's engineering team and maintain top-tier building performance and guest safety. The role requires strong technical expertise, strategic planning, and collaboration with contractors and hotel leadership to ensure smooth operations across all venues including rooms, spa, F&B outlets, and back‑of‑house areas.

The ideal candidate has a demonstrated track record in hotel engineering, experience in pre‑opening activities, and a