Director of Engineering

LR PALM HOUSE LLC•Palm Beach, FL

17m

About The Position

Palm House is seeking an accomplished and highly motivated Director of Engineering to lead all engineering, maintenance, and facilities operations for our luxury hospitality property. This senior leadership role is critical to preserving the aesthetic excellence, operational integrity, safety, and functionality of the property while supporting an exceptional guest and team member experience. The ideal candidate is a hands-on, strategic leader with strong technical expertise, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a deep understanding of luxury hospitality standards. This individual will serve as a key partner to executive leadership, ensuring the property operates at the highest level of performance, compliance, and presentation.

Requirements

5–7+ years of engineering leadership experience in hospitality, luxury residential, or a comparable environment
Strong technical expertise in HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and life-safety systems
Proven experience managing preventive maintenance programs, departmental budgets, and capital projects
Demonstrated ability to lead, train, and motivate engineering teams
Solid knowledge of OSHA regulations, safety standards, and local building codes
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical manuals
Strong vendor management, negotiation, and project management skills
Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities
Proficiency with maintenance management and work-order systems
Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the property for extended periods
Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull objects weighing up to 50 pounds
Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb ladders, and work in confined or elevated spaces
Manual dexterity required for handling tools, equipment, and control panels
Ability to work in mechanical rooms, outdoors, and in varying temperatures and weather conditions
Visual and auditory ability to inspect equipment, read gauges, and respond to alarms and emergency signals

Nice To Haves

Hotel or luxury hospitality experience strongly preferred
Relevant certifications or licenses (HVAC, CPO, electrical, or related trades) are a plus

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and develop the Engineering team, fostering a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement
Establish clear expectations, performance standards, and training programs for all engineering personnel
Promote teamwork and collaboration across departments to support seamless hotel operations
Oversee all preventive, corrective, and predictive maintenance programs across the entire property
Ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of all building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, pool, irrigation, and life-safety systems
Maintain the overall appearance and functionality of the property in alignment with luxury hospitality standards
Plan, manage, and execute capital improvement projects, renovations, and infrastructure upgrades
Develop project scopes, timelines, and budgets while ensuring minimal disruption to operations
Manage vendor relationships, service contracts, warranties, and contractor performance
Negotiate contracts and monitor work quality to ensure value and compliance
Ensure full compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA standards, building codes, and life-safety requirements
Conduct regular inspections, audits, and safety drills
Address and resolve safety hazards, maintenance concerns, and regulatory issues promptly
Develop, manage, and control the Engineering department budget
Track expenses, forecast needs, and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality
Maintain accurate maintenance records, inspection logs, and work-order systems
Prepare reports and updates for executive leadership as required
Respond promptly and effectively to emergency situations, system failures, and operational needs
Be available outside of normal business hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required