Chief Engineer

COMMONWEALTH LODGING MANAGEMENT LLC•Norfolk, VA
•$65,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Chief Engineer is responsible for all aspects of the hotel's Engineering department, including the proper operation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, refrigeration, and mechanical equipment. The role develops, coordinates, and monitors a room maintenance program to support the safety and comfort of staff and guests, and supervises, trains, and manages Engineering staff. The hotel operates seven days a week, 24 hours a day. The Chief Engineer oversees maintenance and preventive maintenance, work orders, staffing and schedules, repair planning, purchasing, records, fire and life-safety activities, building security, and efficient use of energy and utilities. The position also responds to emergencies and works to return the building and its systems to normal operation as quickly and responsibly as possible.

Requirements

  • High school graduate, GED, or equivalent work experience.
  • Two to three years of supervisory and maintenance experience.
  • Good understanding of English and effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Advanced maintenance skills and aptitude, with advanced ability to run an Engineering department.
  • Experience with modern building controls and maintenance, or a combination of education and experience providing the required skills, knowledge, and ability.
  • Computer skills.
  • Knowledge of methods and materials used in general building maintenance, carpentry, plumbing, building and electrical units, and HVAC.
  • Ability to use and repair common maintenance tools and equipment and maintain and repair major facilities.
  • Knowledge of systems design and troubleshooting, with journeyman-level skill using maintenance trade tools and equipment.
  • Ability to lift and transport at least 50 pounds and push or pull carts and other equipment weighing up to 150 pounds.
  • Ability to perform varied physical movements throughout work areas and stand and maintain well-paced mobility for lengthy periods.
  • Ability to communicate satisfactorily with guests, management, and coworkers.
  • Ability to work on stepladders and in variable temperatures and noise levels, indoors and outdoors, and around fumes or odors, dust or mites, and chemicals.

Nice To Haves

  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office.
  • Experience with hotel systems such as MICROS.

Responsibilities

  • Ensure staffing procedures support high payroll productivity at the lowest possible cost while meeting management company standards.
  • Interview, train, supervise, counsel, schedule, and evaluate staff.
  • Maintain positive guest relations, resolve complaints, and communicate effectively with guests and team members.
  • Inspect and monitor buildings, equipment, and grounds to identify maintenance and preventive maintenance requirements.
  • Develop work procedures and assign personnel to provide effective service and productivity.
  • Prepare cost estimates and repair options, including feasibility, logical solutions, and departmental needs.
  • Coordinate with appropriate personnel on maintenance budgets, long-range planning, and capital expenditures.
  • Contact contractors and craftsmen for bids or estimates, and work with vendors and suppliers to secure suitable pricing, quality, and warranties.
  • Receive approved work orders, determine job priorities, and ensure work is completed professionally and acceptably.
  • Requisition materials, supplies, and equipment; control their storage and use; and supervise the use of department space, equipment, and materials.
  • Maintain records of completed work, operating statistics, repair and maintenance costs, utilities, and preventive maintenance.
  • Maintain building security as it relates to lock and key control.
  • Conduct fire safety training, oversee fire emergencies until the fire department arrives, and coordinate and conduct periodic fire drills.
  • Conduct monthly fire and safety inspections with a representative of the Executive Committee.
  • Regularly walk through the hotel to identify needed repairs.
  • Ensure staff are properly trained and perform the work of supervised employees when necessary.
  • Ensure preventive maintenance programs are followed and modified as necessary.
  • Ensure periodic testing of the Fire Alarm/Life Safety System.
  • Promote efficient energy and utilities use in the hotel and on its grounds.
  • Assist with emergencies to protect guests and associates and preserve the building and its systems, acting promptly to restore normal operations.
  • Follow department, Commonwealth Lodging Management, hotel, and brand policies and procedures.
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