Director of Engineering

Sonesta Hotels•Los Angeles, CA

2d•$130,000 - $144,000•Onsite

About The Position

We’re Sonesta International Hotels. The 8th largest hotel company in the U.S.—and growing fast. An epic blend of full-service and focused hotels in major cities, Sonesta’s uniquely diverse portfolio of owned, managed, and franchised properties makes us everywhere you want to be. Driven by the human side of hospitality, we deliver service with passion, loyalty with purpose, and experiences that truly connect. Together We Thrive—bringing quality, value, and amazing hospitality to every guest, every stay, across 1000+ properties in eight countries and counting. Job Description Summary The Director of Engineer (DOE) is the onsite leader of building, equipment and grounds condition of the hotel. This position will lead and/or perform maintenance and repairs, and preventative maintenance, to all areas of the hotel. The DOE is responsible for maintaining a clean and organized maintenance shop and for the security of the hotel inventory and assets such as tools, supplies, furniture, fixtures, and equipment. The DOE’s focus on guest and associate satisfaction, expense control and product quality and will lead to their contribution to the overall goals of the hotel. This role is part of the Executive Leadership Team for the hotel. Job Description Work is performed both inside and outside. Outside work can be performed in rain and warm temperatures. Work is also performed in both guest contact and non-guest contact areas. Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate except in mechanical areas and when using certain equipment. Work involves using various tools, including tools that may be considered dangerous. Protective equipment and clothing will be required. Proper safety precautions specified by the tool manufacturer and/or OSHA must be followed. Work may involve high voltage equipment and electric panels. Proper safety equipment includes but is not limited to the use of gloves that must be worn, at times for an extended period. All applicable OSHA and national and local electrical codes must be adhered to.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required; 2-year degree from an accredited university in Building and Construction, Engineering, Mechanics, or related major preferred.
A minimum of 5 years’ experience in the engineering and maintenance or related professional area; technical training in HVAC-R/electrical/plumbing and supervisory experience.
Must be skilled in HVAC, electrical, carpentry, drywalling, painting, plumbing, roofing, and landscaping.
Must be Knowledgeable of local, state and federal regulations and safety standards.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
Extensive knowledge of hotel and hospitality industry.
Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a hotel property or service industry preferable.
General knowledge of qualified trade such as HVAC, electrician or plumber, carpentry is desirable.
Certification in at least one qualified trade is required.
Understanding of and previous experience in a union environment a plus.

Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day operations of the engineering areas and staff to ensure the quality and standards are meeting the expectations of the customers and employees.
Implement and supervise the preventative maintenance of Mechanical/Electrical areas, public areas and Guest Rooms per established standards and schedules.
Confer with vendors to obtain product and service information such as price, availability and delivery schedule.
Process purchase requests for items needed by the Engineering department.
Manage contractors while onsite, supervise work as needed and make sure work was properly performed.
Inspect and evaluate the physical condition of facilities and recommend appropriate service improvements such as renovation, painting or furniture replacements.
Ensure the building exterior is clean and well maintained.
Communicate with department leaders about maintenance needs and work orders and ensure work orders are completed in a timely manner.
Ensure pool is serviced, including making sure chemicals are properly adjusted and filters are cleaned.
Perform maintenance and repairs on malfunctioning systems and equipment
Coordinate, supervise, and perform preventive maintenance work.
Order, receive supplies and maintain inventory of supplies and operating equipment.
Review guest satisfaction survey results with employees.
Ensure all Sonesta safety and sanitation standards are adhered to.
Respond to guest complaints and ensure proper follow-up is completed.
Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming.
Perform any other job-related duties as assigned.
Ensure compliance with all service contracts.
Ensure compliance with all statutory regulations.
Prepare weekly work schedules in accordance with staffing guidelines and labor forecast and adjust schedules throughout the week to meet business demands.
Analyze guest satisfaction data to develop and implement plans to achieve established goals related to guest satisfaction scores.
Assist with development of the Capital budget.
Participate in the management of the department’s operating budget and assist in the development of the annual capital budget.
Achieve budgeted revenues, control labor costs and expenses.
Manage staffing levels to ensure that guest service, operational needs and financial objectives are met.
Actively participate and advise in the budget and forecasting processes which support the overall objectives of the hotel.
Interview, hire, train, and promote Engineering staff.
Provide consistent feedback and recommend disciplinary action when appropriate.
Ensure employees receive proper training applicable to their position and career aspirations in accordance with company policy and/or local laws.
Conduct pre-shift meetings with staff and review all information pertinent to the day’s business.
Monitor, measure, and recognize performance of employees.
Assist in the annual performance evaluations.
Coach team by providing specific feedback to improve knowledge, skills and performance.
Ensure employees are treated fairly and equitably.
Handle employee issues in a professional and timely manner.
Utilize and collaborate with resources across different departments and corporate office.
Motivate employees to perform to their highest standard and establish a trusting environment to enrich the culture.
Focus on the mission and well-being of the departments, hotel and company.
Lead by example and operate with integrity and respect.
Inspire your team to embrace and demonstrate Sonesta’s core values and the guest service standards.