Director of Engineering

Pyramid Global Hospitality•Chicago, IL

10d•$130,000 - $160,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Engineering is responsible for overseeing the engineering, maintenance, safety, and physical operations of the hotel. This leadership role ensures that all hotel facilities, guest rooms, public areas, back-of-house spaces, mechanical systems, and life safety systems are maintained to company, brand, and regulatory standards while supporting exceptional guest and associate experiences. The Director of Engineering provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all engineering functions within the property, including preventive maintenance programs, capital projects, energy management initiatives, vendor relationships, and emergency response procedures. This position works closely with the hotel leadership team to maintain operational efficiency, property appearance, and asset protection.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Hospitality Management, or related field preferred.
Minimum of 5–7 years of engineering or facilities leadership experience in hospitality, commercial facilities, or related environments.
Hotel engineering or facilities management experience preferred.
Strong knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, and life safety systems.
Demonstrated leadership, budgeting, and project management experience.
Ability to interpret blueprints, technical manuals, and maintenance documentation.
Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in maintenance management systems and Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to stand, walk, climb stairs, and move throughout the hotel for extended periods of time.
Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds occasionally.
Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, and climbing ladders as needed.
Ability to work in mechanical rooms, rooftops, kitchens, laundry areas, and other operational spaces with varying temperatures and noise levels.
Ability to respond to emergency situations during evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight hours as operational needs require.
Frequent use of computers, mobile devices, radios, and maintenance equipment.

Responsibilities

Direct and oversee all engineering and maintenance operations for the hotel.
Ensure the safe, efficient, and uninterrupted operation of building systems including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, kitchen equipment, elevators, fire/life safety systems, and guest room equipment.
Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs to protect physical assets and minimize operational disruptions.
Monitor property conditions and prioritize repair and maintenance needs throughout the hotel.
Ensure all work is completed in compliance with company standards, brand requirements, OSHA regulations, and local building codes.
Lead, develop, and support engineering managers, supervisors, and engineering associates within the property.
Provide coaching, performance management, scheduling oversight, and training for the engineering team.
Foster a culture focused on safety, accountability, teamwork, and service excellence.
Partner with department leaders to address operational and facility-related concerns impacting guest and associate satisfaction.
Develop and manage the engineering department budget, including labor, utilities, maintenance supplies, and capital expenditures.
Monitor expenses and identify cost-saving opportunities related to energy consumption, maintenance operations, and vendor services.
Assist with long-term capital planning, renovation projects, and asset preservation strategies.
Maintain accurate engineering logs, inspection records, work orders, and compliance documentation.
Oversee hotel safety programs and ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
Ensure the property maintains compliance with fire/life safety inspections and operational standards.
Lead emergency response efforts related to facility operations, utilities, weather events, or equipment failures.
Maintain proper certifications, permits, and inspection documentation for the property.
Manage relationships with contractors, service providers, and vendors.
Coordinate repair projects, renovations, and maintenance contracts for the property.
Review vendor proposals and ensure work quality, cost effectiveness, and timely completion of projects.