Chief Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Join a high-energy, growth-focused team at Stay Hospitality, where opportunities for advancement await you- this position is based at the soon to reopen Garden Hotel & Resort in Fort Lauderdale.

Job Description

The Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the hotel’s engineering and maintenance operations, including building systems, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, life safety, and preventive maintenance. This role ensures the property remains in excellent condition, operating safely and efficiently, while leading a team of maintenance professionals and working collaboratively with all departments to support guest satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day engineering operations and maintenance of the hotel, including guest rooms, public spaces, back-of-house areas, and grounds

Develop, implement, and manage preventive maintenance schedules for all systems and equipment using Transcendent

Supervise, train, and evaluate the engineering and maintenance team; schedule shifts and delegate tasks

Respond promptly to guest requests and resolve maintenance issues to ensure guest satisfaction

Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations regarding fire, life safety, OSHA, and environmental standards

Monitor energy and utility usage and implement sustainability and cost-saving measures

Manage maintenance-related purchasing, inventory, and vendor relationships

Maintain accurate records of inspections, repairs, work orders, equipment logs, and safety procedures using Transcendent

Coordinate with contractors and outside vendors for major repairs or renovations

Participate in budget planning and control related to capital projects and departmental expenses

Conduct regular property walkthroughs to ensure safety, cleanliness, and operational standards are maintained

Must-Have Qualifications

Language Requirements : Fluent in English (spoken and written)

High school diploma or equivalent

Minimum 5 years of engineering or maintenance experience in a hotel or similar facility

At least 2 years of supervisory or managerial experience

Strong working knowledge of building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire / life safety, and mechanical

Familiarity with state and local building codes, OSHA regulations, and environmental standards

Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills

Proficient with maintenance software, work order systems, and basic computer skills

Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays and on-call availability

Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)

Proficiency in additional languages such as Spanish and French is a plus

Trade school, technical certification, or engineering degree

Physical Demands

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8–10 hours per workday)

Frequent bending, lifting, and reaching to manage supplies and assist staff

Must be able to lift and carry up to 75 lbs (e.g., boxes, supplies, equipment)

Comfortable working in fast-paced, high-pressure environments, including hot and / or humid environments.

Must be comfortable working with tools, ladders, and in confined spaces when necessary

Exposure to cleaning chemicals, pesticides, herbicides

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Other Information

FLSA Classification : Exempt

Salary Range : $70,000 annually

Reports To : General Manager

Work location : Onsite at The Garden Hotel, Fort Lauderdale, FL, with the opportunity for periodic meetings offsite

Work environment : Hotel property, including mechanical rooms, rooftops, guest areas, and exterior grounds.

Work schedule : This position may require availability during evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on business needs. Flexibility in scheduling is essential in a hospitality environment.

Benefits & Perks

Stay Hospitality offers a competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being and work-life balance. Eligibility for specific benefits may vary based on employment status, job classification, and tenure.

Depending on your role and eligibility, benefits may include :

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off and holidays

Flexible scheduling options

Employee discounts at Stay Hospitality properties

Opportunities for professional development and career growth

Stay Hospitality is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this role. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. Job descriptions are subject to change at the discretion of management.