Director of Engineering

Sun Hill Properties Inc.• Los Angeles, CA, US, CA

8d•$130,000 - $160,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Engineering is responsible for the overall operation and maintenance of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and life safety systems within a large-scale hotel. This includes high-complexity systems such as boilers, chillers, air handlers, cooling towers, heat exchangers, BMS, and fire suppression systems. This leadership role ensures optimal functioning of all engineering services to support guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, energy management, regulatory compliance, and long-term asset protection. The position requires a hands-on, strategic thinker with deep technical expertise, team leadership skills, and a proactive approach to preventive maintenance and sustainability initiatives.

Requirements

Excellent leadership, communication, and team management skills.
Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability under pressure.
Ability to interpret blueprints, technical documents, and regulatory codes.
Budgeting, forecasting, and vendor management skills.
Expert-level understanding of complex building systems: boilers, chillers, heat exchangers, cooling towers, air handlers, BMS, and electrical infrastructure.
Strong knowledge of life safety systems (fire alarms, sprinkler systems, emergency generators).
Proficiency with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems) and building automation systems.
Ability to maximize impact, maintains interest, and establishes a rapport with your audience when conveying information.
Ability to proactively prioritize needs and effectively manage time and resources.
Understanding the positioning of the hotel, services provided, and how the hotel can meet the needs of clients.
Must possess computer skills, including, but not limited to, Microsoft Office Suite, OnQ.
English is a must; other languages are a plus.
Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering (or equivalent technical discipline)
8–10 years of engineering experience in a large, complex hotel, resort, hospital, or institutional facility; Hilton experience preferred
At least 3–5 years in a managerial or leadership role overseeing large mechanical systems and multi-disciplinary teams.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may be required when performing work duties that may have the potential of risk to your health or safety. The hotel will provide the required PPE. Team members will be trained in the proper use and care of any assigned PPE. It is your responsibility to report defective, damaged or lost PPE, or equipment that does not fit properly, to your manager.
All employees must maintain a neat, clean, and well-groomed appearance. Specific uniform guidelines and/or required articles of clothing will be explained to you as part of the orientation process.

Nice To Haves

Brand experience is a plus.
Advanced math skills.
Professional certifications preferred (e.g., CEM, LEED AP, P.E. license).
Valid trade licenses (HVAC, boiler operator, electrical, etc.) a strong plus.

Responsibilities

Lead the engineering team in maintaining all building systems including HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, elevators, and structural components.
Manage and maintain major systems including boilers, chillers, air handlers, heat exchangers, cooling towers, and building automation systems.
Develop and implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs for all systems and equipment.
Ensure uninterrupted operation of guest-facing and back-of-house systems.
Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate a team of engineers, technicians, and maintenance personnel.
Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Develop and oversee shift schedules, on-call rotations, and training plans.
Develop and manage the engineering department budget, including labor, supplies, and capital expenditures.
Maintain compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including building codes, OSHA, EPA, and fire safety.
Prepare for and participate in all required audits, inspections, and regulatory visits.
Lead and coordinate engineering aspects of hotel renovations, retrofits, and system upgrades.
Liaise with contractors, vendors, and consultants to ensure project timelines, safety, and standards are met.
Monitor energy and utility consumption; develop and implement strategies to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs.
Recommend and implement sustainability initiatives aligned with corporate ESG goals.
Respond to guest and operational issues related to engineering services with urgency and professionalism.
Ensure minimal disruption to guest experience during maintenance activities or equipment failures.
Provide support and technical assistance on engineering-related matters across other properties within the company's portfolio.