Corporate Engineer

RLJ Lodging Trust•Bethesda, MD

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Corporate Engineer leads engineering planning, capital execution, and asset integrity across a significant portion of RLJ’s hotel portfolio (35+ properties). Sitting within Design & Construction, this role partners with Asset Management and property teams to drive consistent engineering performance, execute complex projects, and protect long-term asset value. This is a senior, hands-on role for a seasoned operator who is comfortable working across a multi-property platform.

Requirements

Strong technical expertise across HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and building systems
Proven ability to manage complex projects across multiple assets and disciplines
Financial acumen across CapEx, R&M, and ROI analysis
Experience managing vendors, contracts, and construction processes
Strong problem-solving, organization, and communication skills
Proficiency with MS Office
10+ years of experience in hotel engineering or facilities leadership
Multi-property or portfolio-level experience required
Experience leading complex capital projects in an operating environment
Strong background in life-safety and regulatory compliance

Nice To Haves

Experience with project management and CMMS tools
Familiarity with Trimble and Yardi or similar systems
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management, Facilities, or related field
Relevant certifications (e.g., PE, CFM)
REIT, ownership, or asset management experience

Responsibilities

Support and guide third-party management, property-level, Regional, and Chief Engineers
Ensure consistent engineering standards and operating practices are being implemented by third-party management teams
Conduct property inspections, audits, and condition assessments
Provide expertise on complex building systems
Oversee MEP, infrastructure, and disaster remediation projects from planning through execution
Lead RFPs, budgeting, bid-leveling, contract negotiation, and project delivery
Ensure projects are completed on time, on budget, and aligned with asset strategy
Strengthen preventive and predictive maintenance programs
Improve asset reliability and reduce reactive repairs
Standardize vendor performance and service delivery
Identify opportunities to reduce utility costs and improve efficiency
Leverage building automation systems and CMMS tools
Support sustainability initiatives
Ensure compliance with codes, regulations, and brand standards
Oversee fire/life-safety systems and risk mitigation
Support audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews
Monitor R&M and CapEx spend
Support capital planning and multi-year forecasting
Participate in acquisition and disposition due diligence, including site assessments and capital review
Collaborate with peer Corporate Engineers to implement best practices across portfolio and leverage buying power
Utilize Assistant Project Management resources to improve project execution efficiency
Lead third-party vendors and hold them accountable for results