Chief Engineer

Q - Center•St. Charles, IL

8h•Onsite

About The Position

The Chief Engineer is responsible for providing strategic leadership and hands-on management of all engineering and facilities operations at the Q Center, a large, full-service hospitality and conferencing environment. This role ensures the safe, reliable, compliant, and efficient operation of all building systems while maintaining the physical condition, appearance, and long-term value of the campus. Serving as the senior technical authority, the Chief Engineer oversees day-to-day engineering operations and leads the Maintenance, Painting, and Grounds teams from the frontlines. The position combines functional leadership, technical expertise across multiple building trades, and operational execution, consistent with best practices employed by general facilities requirements, code enforcing bodies and industry leaders. The Chief Engineer plays a critical role in supporting guest experience, business continuity, sustainability initiatives, regulatory compliance, and capital improvement planning through proactive asset management and continuous operational improvement.

Requirements

At least 3 years of supervisory or lead mechanic experience in a hotel or a related field; or a technical certificate with at least 1 year of supervisory or lead mechanic experience.
Stationary engineer’s license.
HVAC, electrical, plumbing, boiler operations and general maintenance skills required.
High school diploma or equivalent required.
Valid Drivers License.
Must be able to effectively communicate both verbally and written, with all level of associates and guests in an attentive, friendly, courteous and service-oriented manner.
Must be effective at listening to, understanding, and clarifying concerns raised by associates and guests.
Must be able to multitask and prioritize departmental functions to meet deadlines.
Approach all encounters with guests and associates in an attentive, friendly, courteous and service-oriented manner.
Attend all center required meetings and trainings.
Maintain regular attendance in compliance with Q Center Policy, as required by scheduling, which will vary according to business needs.
Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming, which includes wearing the proper uniform and nametag.
Comply with Q Center Policies and Regulations to encourage safe and efficient operations.
Maximize efforts towards productivity, identify problem areas and assist in implementing solutions.
Must be effective in handling problems, including anticipating, preventing, identifying and solving problems as necessary.
Must be able to understand and apply complex information, data, etc. from various sources to meet appropriate objectives.
Must be able to cross-train in other related areas.
Must be able to maintain confidentiality of information.
Must show initiative, including anticipating guest or operational needs.
Perform other duties as requested by management.
Maintain a warm and friendly demeanor at all times.

Responsibilities

Lead all engineering, maintenance, and facility operations, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, life safety systems, building automation systems (BAS), fire protection, and vertical transportation.
Maintain an active, hands-on presence in daily operations, troubleshooting complex issues and supporting the team as a technical subject matter expert.
Ensure all building systems operate safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and brand standards.
Develop and manage comprehensive preventive and predictive maintenance programs aligned with industry best practices.
Define and implement department objectives and standard operating procedures.
Supervise all facilities staff and external contractors.
Ensure facility is fully operational with all utilities functioning properly.
Direct, coach, train, and evaluate Maintenance, Painting, and Grounds staff to ensure high performance and accountability.
Establish clear performance expectations and promote a culture of safety, professionalism, and service excellence.
Support workforce planning, scheduling, and coverage to ensure appropriate staffing levels across all shifts and event demands.
Conduct associate performance reviews in accordance with Q Center standards.
Ensure training and compliance of all associates on Standard Operating Procedures, Q Center policies, technical tasks and risk management is achieved.
Operate all aspects of the department computer system, including software maintenance, report generation and analysis, and simple programming.
Mentor team members and develop bench strength across technical trades. Conduct departmental training, departmental meetings developing associate morale and skills.
Associate must, at all times, be attentive, friendly, helpful, and courteous to all guests and fellow associates.
Maintain a professional working relationship and promote open lines of communication with managers, associates, and other departments.
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA, EPA, fire/life safety, and environmental standards.
Lead safety programs, incident reporting, and corrective action initiatives. Ensure overall associate and guest satisfaction and safety is achieved.
Oversee inspections, testing, and documentation related to life safety systems and critical infrastructure.
Act as the primary engineering point of contact for regulatory agencies, inspectors, and third-party auditors.
Assist in developing and managing the engineering operating budget, including labor, materials, and service contracts.
Monitor expenses, control costs, and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising safety or service levels.
Support capital planning and long-range asset management strategies, including lifecycle analysis and replacement planning.
Manage budget, forecast, expense, records, and contracts. Advise on measures to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the facility. Maintain stock levels and parts within budget.
Lead or support capital improvement projects, renovations, and major repairs from planning through execution.
Coordinate with external consultants, contractors, and vendors to ensure quality, schedule adherence, and cost control.
Participate in RFP development, vendor selection, and contract administration for engineering-related services.
Ensure engineering operations support seamless guest experiences and uninterrupted conference and hospitality services.
Respond promptly and professionally to facility-related issues that may impact guests, clients, or events.
Support emergency response, disaster preparedness, and business continuity planning.