Job Description 

The Engineering Manager is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing all building operations, preventive maintenance programs, safety initiatives, capital planning support, and regulatory compliance. Reporting to senior leadership, this role manages day-to-day engineering operations and ensures that all facilities and technical systems operate safely, efficiently, and in alignment with Palm House’s Forbes Five-Star standards. 

This position blends hands-on technical expertise with strong people leadership and project management skills. The Engineering Manager leads the Engineering Department, supports capital projects, and promotes a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement. Success in this role requires a hospitality-focused engineering professional with advanced system knowledge and proven experience managing teams in a luxury environment. 

Key Responsibilities 

Facilities Operations & Infrastructure Management 

• Oversee daily operations and performance of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, life-safety, and building automation systems. 
• Ensure all equipment, utilities, and facilities are maintained at optimal operating standards and in accordance with manufacturer specifications. 
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve the property’s preventive maintenance program. 
• Conduct routine inspections of guestrooms, public areas, exterior spaces, and back-of-house facilities to ensure quality, safety, and reliability. 
• Respond promptly to operational needs and ensure work orders and service requests are resolved efficiently with minimal guest impact. 
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Safety, Compliance & Regulatory Oversight 

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA, fire safety, environmental standards, and building codes. 
• Maintain accurate documentation for inspections, certifications, permits, and safety records. 
• Lead life-safety and emergency preparedness programs, including fire drills, equipment testing, and staff training. 
• Proactively identify, report, and mitigate safety hazards to ensure a secure environment for guests and employees. 

Capital Projects & Renovations 

• Support and oversee capital improvement projects, renovations, and major repairs from planning through completion. 
• Assist in developing project scopes, budgets, and timelines in alignment with ownership and operational goals. 
• Coordinate and manage contractors and vendors to ensure quality workmanship, safety compliance, and adherence to schedules. 
• Evaluate and recommend long-term infrastructure improvements to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and asset longevity. 

Leadership & Cross-Department Collaboration 

• Lead, mentor, and develop engineering team members, promoting technical excellence, accountability, and service-oriented culture. 
• Assign workloads, monitor performance, and support training and career development initiatives. 
• Collaborate with Rooms, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, and other departments to support operational needs and guest satisfaction. 
• Communicate clearly with executive leadership regarding engineering performance, system conditions, risks, and operational priorities. 

Administrative, Budgeting & Technology Management 

• Assist in managing the Engineering Department budget, including labor, operating expenses, and capital tracking. 
• Maintain accurate records for work orders, preventive maintenance schedules, equipment histories, and inventory control. 
• Oversee procurement of tools, parts, and supplies while ensuring cost efficiency and quality standards. 
• Identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption, improve sustainability practices, and control operational costs. 
• Support system upgrades, integrations, and implementation of property technologies that improve engineering efficiency and building performance. 
• Other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related technical field required. 
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive engineering experience, including at least 3 years in a supervisory or management role within luxury hospitality. 
• Strong working knowledge of HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, refrigeration, fire-life safety, and building automation systems. 
• Thorough understanding of safety regulations, environmental standards, and preventive maintenance best practices. 
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and support complex projects in a fast-paced environment. 
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills. 
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to operational excellence and safety. 

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 50 pounds. 
• Ability to stand, walk, climb ladders, and work in tight, elevated, or physically demanding environments for extended periods. 
• Ability to work in varying temperatures, including mechanical rooms, rooftops, and outdoor conditions. 
• Availability to respond to after-hours emergencies and flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or holidays as operational needs require.