Hotel Chief Engineer (CE) / Engineering Manager Job Description
Hotel Chief Engineer / Technical Manager: Role and Responsibilities
The Hotel Chief Engineer, also known as the Technical Manager, is responsible for managing and supervising the maintenance and repair of all hotel facilities. This includes guest rooms, public areas, and all “back of the house” spaces. They lead a team of technicians and mechanics, ensuring all work is completed efficiently and to a high standard.
This role is critical for ensuring the hotel facilities are always in top condition, providing a safe and comfortable environment for both guests and employees. The Chief Engineer directs all routine, preventive, and emergency maintenance to achieve optimal efficiency and economy of hotel operations. They are responsible for departmental accounting, budgeting, asset protection, inventory control, and human resource management.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Chief Engineer
The core duties of the Chief Engineer cover leadership, technical operations, and administration.
Operations and Maintenance
- Prioritize, plan, schedule, and oversee the assignments of the engineering staff.
- Oversee all maintenance tasks, work orders, and special projects to ensure timely and accurate completion.
- Maintain the physical appearance and operational efficiency of the hotel, including all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
- Install and maintain all equipment related to HVAC, DG sets, water treatment, and fire safety systems.
- Conduct daily and weekly property inspections to ensure the property, grounds, and physical plant are maintained to standard and that all safety conditions are met.
- Ensure the proper use and regular maintenance of all equipment.
- Maintain, monitor, and test the hotel’s emergency and security systems, such as fire alarms, CCTV, and baggage scanners.
Leadership and Administration
- Represent the Engineering Department during daily morning HOD (Head of Department) meetings.
- Maximize the maintenance team’s potential with a balanced focus on operations, guests, employees, and owner satisfaction.
- Train engineering staff on correct maintenance procedures, inventory, and ordering, and help them improve their skills.
- Prepare reports as required by the General Manager and other department heads.
- Attend all facility management meetings as needed and share information with the maintenance team.
- Discuss maintenance status and inspection reports with the GM, owner, or department heads.
- Ensure maintenance staff wears the proper uniform with a nametag and upholds hotel grooming standards.
Safety, Budget, and Compliance
- Ensure proper records are kept for all hotel plant and equipment, including repair and service history.
- Ensure the store has an adequate stock of materials, equipment, and tools, stored in a clean and safe environment.
- Maintain the cleanliness and safety of all plant rooms and mechanical equipment areas.
- Establish and maintain departmental equipment and inventory levels in accordance with property needs.
- Develop, implement, and direct all emergency programs.
- Develop, implement, and manage energy conservation programs for the property to minimize expenses.
- Coordinate with equipment suppliers for Annual Maintenance Contracts (AMCs) and troubleshooting extraordinary problems.
Position Details and Qualifications
Position Title: Chief Engineer (CE) / Technical Manager
Reports to: General Manager / Assistant General Manager
Prerequisites
- A comprehensive working knowledge of building management and engineering.
- A positive attitude, strong communication skills, and a commitment to providing a high level of customer service.
Education
A Bachelor of Science, Diploma, or Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical or Civil Engineering is preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 5 years of maintenance experience, with at least 3 years of supervisory or management experience in a hotel engineering department.
Sample Interview Questions
When interviewing for this position, it is important to assess leadership skills, technical expertise, and management experience.
Leadership and Management
- Can you describe your experience as a Chief Engineer or in a similar leadership role in hotel engineering?
- How do you motivate and lead your technical team to ensure the smooth operation of hotel facilities?
- Explain a challenging situation you faced as a chief engineer and how you resolved it.
Technical Expertise
- What is your experience with hotel systems such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and fire safety systems?
- How do you ensure preventive maintenance schedules are followed, and what strategies do you use to extend the life of equipment?
Budgeting and Cost Control
- How do you manage the engineering budget for a hotel, and what strategies do you apply to control costs while maintaining efficiency?
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
- What steps have you taken to improve energy efficiency and sustainability in a hotel’s technical operations?
Regulatory Compliance
- How do you ensure that engineering operations comply with relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards?
Team Collaboration
- How do you coordinate with other hotel departments, such as housekeeping and the front desk, to ensure a seamless guest experience?
Salary Information
Salaries for a Hotel Chief Engineer or Technical Manager can vary based on factors such as location, hotel size, and the candidate’s experience level. In January 2024, the average annual salary for this position in the United States ranged from $70,000 to $120,000 or more, depending on specific conditions.
Salaries can vary, and it is advisable to check the latest salary data from reliable sources for the most current information. Keep in mind that certain industries or regions may have different salary ranges.
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