Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer

The Chief Engineer oversees all aspects of engineering, maintenance, and facility operations at Hawks Cay Resort. This leadership role ensures the property's physical assets are maintained to the highest standards of safety, functionality, and luxury presentation. The Chief Engineer leads the engineering team in delivering efficient operations, robust preventative maintenance, and rapid response to guest and operational needs, supporting an exceptional guest experience in a luxury hospitality environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Engineering Department, including scheduling, training, coaching, and performance management of team members.
• Oversee comprehensive preventative and corrective maintenance programs for guest rooms, public areas, back-of-house spaces, recreational facilities, and all resort equipment.
• Ensure full compliance with safety, environmental, and building regulations, including OSHA, fire codes, and all applicable local and state requirements.
• Manage engineering budgets covering operations, capital projects, repairs, utilities, and energy management.
• Partner with other departments to support daily resort operations, special events, and guest service needs.
• Maintain all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and pool systems for optimal efficiency and reliability.
• Drive sustainability and energy-saving initiatives aligned with resort standards and goals.
• Respond effectively to emergency situations such as power outages, equipment failures, and severe weather events.
• Conduct regular property inspections to proactively identify and resolve maintenance needs.
• Develop, implement, and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the engineering team to ensure consistency, quality, and accountability.
• Serve as the primary liaison with outside contractors, vendors, and regulatory agencies for major repairs and capital improvement projects.
• Ensure prompt and effective guest service recovery whenever engineering-related issues impact the guest experience.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related field preferred; relevant technical certifications (HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, etc.) strongly desired.
• Minimum 5–7 years of progressive engineering or facilities management experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership role within a luxury resort, hotel, or hospitality environment.
• Strong working knowledge of building systems, including electrical, HVAC, plumbing, mechanical, and life safety systems.
• Proven leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop a diverse team.
• Solid experience with budgeting, forecasting, and project management.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills, particularly under pressure.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and interact professionally with guests.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform hands-on maintenance tasks as needed.
• Ability to stand, walk, climb, and work in varied conditions (indoor, outdoor, and confined spaces).
• Availability for flexible scheduling, including nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call coverage as required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Employee discounts on resort accommodations, dining, and activities
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Employee recognition programs
• Complimentary or discounted meals (based on position)
• Housing options may be available for eligible associates
• Supportive, team-oriented work environment in a beautiful Florida Keys resort setting

Equal Employment Opportunity

Hawks Cay Resort is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.