Director of Engineering

Position Summary

The Director of Engineering leads the technical, mechanical, facilities and utilities operations of The Biltmore Hotel and, to an appropriate extent, the golf course. This role oversees repair and maintenance, capital investment projects, safety and compliance, and departmental financial performance while ensuring guest and member comfort, operational efficiency, sustainability, and a high-performing team. 

The position adheres to Biltmore Standard Operating Procedures (BSOPs) and hotel policies.

Responsibilities

• Facility & Systems Management: Direct and supervise repair and maintenance of the building envelope, grounds, common areas, food and beverage outlets, kitchens, laundry, guestrooms, meeting facilities and back-of-house areas. Oversee HVAC, boilers, chillers, cooling towers, plumbing, electrical, power and building automation systems.
• Preventive Maintenance: Develop, implement and continuously improve comprehensive preventive maintenance programs for guestrooms, public spaces, meeting facilities, equipment and major building systems. Use facilities management software to track work orders and scheduled maintenance.
• Budget & Financial Control: Prepare and manage annual Engineering budgets, including salaries and benefits, labor plans, operating expenses, utilities (heat, light and power), repairs and capital needs. Monitor results monthly, prepare P&L analyses/critiques and maintain departmental cost control.
• Capital Project Management: Plan and execute multi-year capital expenditure programs, renovations, room improvements and modifications to existing assets. Prepare bid documents and capital budgets, manage project costs, coordinate consultants, and collaborate with Ownership and the Executive Committee.
• Permits & Regulatory Compliance: Coordinate with City of Coral Gables officials regarding permits and inspections. Ensure compliance with applicable local, state and federal requirements, OSHA regulations, and fire/life safety testing and certifications.
• Team Leadership & Vendor Relations: Recruit, train, coach and supervise Engineering team members. Administer service contracts, coordinate outside consultants and vendors, and monitor third-party performance.
• Purchasing & Inventory: Follow hotel purchasing procedures and maintain appropriate physical inventory for scheduled maintenance and unanticipated emergencies.
• Hotel Standards: Comply with Biltmore Hotel standards and policies and perform other duties assigned by Management and/or Ownership.

Experience and Education Required

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Facilities Management or Hospitality Management preferred; equivalent trade school or certification background considered.
• Experience: 5–7 years of progressive engineering or facilities leadership experience in a luxury, full-service or resort hotel environment; independent and historic property experience is a plus.
• Certifications: Industry credentials such as CEOE (Certified Engineering Operations Executive), RPA, FMA or BOMI designations desired.

Skills Required

• Excellent knowledge of major building systems, including HVAC, laundry, kitchen, electrical and power systems; ability to read and interpret technical plans and drawings.
• Strong leadership, strategic planning, communication, interpersonal, organizational and problem-solving skills; ability to convey the property’s vision and service standards.
• Ability to prioritize, multitask, make sound decisions under pressure and work accurately and independently in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to speak, read, write and understand English; bilingual English/Spanish abilities desired.
• Ability to perform accurate mathematical calculations and provide clear, legible directions and communications.
• Computer proficiency, including spreadsheets, keyboarding and facilities management software.
• Ability to anticipate guest service needs, collaborate across departments, follow directions thoroughly and maintain confidentiality of guest information and hotel data.

Success Criteria

• Team Player: Collaborates across departments, listens carefully and positively influences colleagues.
• Guest Focused: Anticipates needs of guests and members from diverse backgrounds and demonstrates warm, genuine and helpful service.
• Delivers Their Best: Acts with urgency, resourcefulness, efficiency, professionalism and appropriate presentation.
• Composed: Remains calm and mature under pressure, responds effectively to unexpected issues and maintains service standards.
• Trustworthy and Responsible: Demonstrates punctuality, reliability, integrity, honesty and accountability.
• Time Management: Prioritizes important activities, uses time efficiently and makes timely decisions. 
• Listening: Practices attentive, active listening and accurately understands others’ perspectives..

Physical Demands

• Move, lift, carry, push, pull and place objects weighing up to 50 pounds without assistance.
• Stand, sit or walk for extended periods, including an entire work shift.
• Reach overhead and below the knees, including bending, twisting, pulling and stooping.
• Operate office equipment using finger dexterity and use a computer screen for extended periods.
• Communicate effectively with employees, managers and guests using verbal communication, hearing and visual acuity.
• Adapt to moderate hotel temperatures controlled by environmental systems; most work is performed indoors.