Chief Maintenance Engineer

DRIFTWOOD HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT•Albany, NY

11d•$85,000 - $95,000•Onsite

About The Position

Albany Marriott is seeking a results-driven and service-oriented Chief Engineer to lead all engineering and maintenance functions for our upper-upscale property. This role ensures the hotel’s physical plant, including HVAC and plumbing systems, is operated and maintained to brand standards delivering exceptional guest comfort, safety, and reliability. The Chief Engineer plays a critical leadership role in upholding our commitment to operational excellence, sustainability, and guest satisfaction while fostering a positive, inclusive work environment aligned with our core values.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or related discipline preferred
Minimum 5–8 years engineering experience, with at least 3–5 years in a leadership role within a hotel or similar environment
Prior experience with a Marriott or branded hotel system strongly preferred
Advanced knowledge of: Commercial HVAC systems (chillers, boilers, BAS controls)
Advanced knowledge of: Plumbing infrastructure and water systems
Advanced knowledge of: Preventive maintenance systems and hotel engineering operations
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and blueprints
EPA Universal Certification (HVAC)
The ability to schedule, manage and delegate work effectively and efficiently.
Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.
Ability to read and communicate verbally and in writing
Computer literate in MS Word, Excel.
Complex mathematical skills and considerable skills in the use of Excel Spreadsheets and/or calculator to prepare complex mathematical calculations without error, i.e., budgets.
Ability to stand, walk and/or sit and continuously perform essential job functions for duration of shift.
Must be able to work in hot, cold and wet conditions and be able to stoop, kneel, crawl and climb on all types of surfaces.
Hearing and visual ability to observe and detect signs of emergency situations.
Ability to climb stairs and ladders at a rapid pace, up to 30 feet in the air.
Grasping, lifting and holding tools and having good finger dexterity is required.
Perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, kneeling, and walking significant distances between and within buildings on the property.
Lifting and moving objects up to 100 pounds.
Frequent twisting, bending, stooping, reaching, standing, walking, talking, hearing, seeing and smiling.

Nice To Haves

Plumbing or Mechanical license preferred
Additional certifications (e.g., CPO, OSHA training) a plus

Responsibilities

Lead the Engineering team in accordance with Marriott’s “Putting People First” philosophy
Hire, train, coach, and develop associates to meet Marriott service and performance expectations
Promote a safe, inclusive, and engaging work environment
Collaborate with department leaders to support overall hotel operations and guest satisfaction (GSS/ESS scores)
Oversee all aspects of HVAC operations, including chillers, boilers, air handling units, fan coils, cooling towers, and building automation systems (BAS)
Ensure systems operate efficiently
Implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs using approved systems
Troubleshoot and resolve complex HVAC issues quickly to maintain guest comfort standards
Maintain and oversee domestic water, hot water systems, pumps, drainage, sewage, and fixtures
Ensure compliance with brand standards for water temperature, pressure, and safety
Proactively identify and correct system issues (leaks, blockages, equipment failures)
Oversee water quality programs, including backflow prevention and Legionella risk mitigation (per Marriott guidelines)
Ensure all guest rooms, public areas, and back-of-house spaces meet Marriott’s brand quality standards
Oversee key building systems including electrical, fire/life safety, elevators, and kitchen equipment
Manage renovation projects, capital expenditures (CAPEX), and vendor relationships
Maintain detailed maintenance records and inspection logs
Ensure compliance with safety standards, OSHA regulations, and all local/state codes
Champion our Life Safety programs, including emergency procedures and fire prevention systems
Support internal audits, QA inspections, and risk management initiatives
Maintain all certifications, permits, and documentation
Develop and manage departmental budgets (labor, utilities, maintenance, CAPEX)
Control expenses while maintaining Marriott service standards
Identify energy-saving opportunities and sustainability initiatives
Manage procurement processes in line with Marriott vendor guidelines
Review and Approve Time Cards
Oversee recruitment and retention of team