Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer The Warbler Hotel New Orleans, LA Anticipated Start: July 2026 Compensation: $70,000 The Role As Chief Engineer, you will oversee all aspects of maintenance, facilities, life safety, security systems, and property technology across the hotel and its food and beverage venues. You will play a critical role in the successful opening of the property and the long‑term preservation of the asset. This is far more than a traditional maintenance position. You will be responsible for ensuring every system behind the scenes operates seamlessly, from HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and preventative maintenance programs to access control systems, surveillance infrastructure, network equipment, and hotel technology. You will build and lead the maintenance team, establish preventative maintenance programs, develop vendor partnerships, manage departmental budgets, and create systems that allow the property to operate safely and efficiently. You will work closely with hotel leadership to protect the guest experience, preserve ownership's investment, and maintain a property that reflects the same level of care and intention evident in every design detail. We are seeking someone who values craftsmanship, takes ownership, and enjoys solving complex challenges. Someone who can think strategically about the long‑term health of a building while remaining hands‑on and engaged in the day‑to‑day operation. The Opportunity The Warbler is an independently owned hotel: warm, welcoming, and unmistakably New Orleanian. A point of view rooted in character, charm, and the kind of hospitality that makes every guest feel like they are the most important person in the room. Set along the tree‑lined corridor of St. Charles Avenue in the Garden District, The Warbler draws inspiration from old‑world traditions and the soulful rhythm of New Orleans. The hotel is intimate and design‑forward, layered and elegant, without slipping into pretension. At its heart is Mildred's, a bar‑centric restaurant serving an ode to martinis, tapas, and lingering evenings. Above it all sits Upstairs, a lush rooftop pool and bar. Together, they create a space where guests come for a drink and decide to stay for the night. Together, The Warbler, Mildred's, and Upstairs offer something rare: spontaneous, authentic hospitality that feels discovered, not marketed. A true gift of New Orleans warmth in a setting that feels both luxurious and deeply human. We are seeking a Chief Engineer who understands that exceptional hospitality begins long before a guest checks in. Someone who takes pride in creating spaces that feel effortless, comfortable, and cared for. A leader who sees themselves as the steward of the physical asset and the protector of the guest experience. What You'll Do Lead the successful opening and ongoing maintenance operation of the hotel, restaurant, and rooftop pool facilities Develop and execute a comprehensive preventative maintenance program that protects the asset and minimizes operational disruptions Oversee all building systems, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, life safety, and pool equipment Manage hotel technology infrastructure, including network equipment, Wi‑Fi systems, televisions, telecommunications, access control systems, surveillance cameras, and related vendor relationships Lead all safety, security, and emergency preparedness initiatives, ensuring compliance with company standards and regulatory requirements Build, train, coach, and develop the maintenance team while fostering a culture of accountability, responsiveness, and pride in workmanship Manage maintenance budgets, capital projects, vendor relationships, purchasing, and inventory controls Partner closely with hotel leadership to identify opportunities for continuous improvement, asset preservation, and operational efficiency Respond to guest and team member concerns with professionalism, urgency, and a solutions‑oriented mindset Who You Are An experienced facilities or engineering leader with a background in hotels, hospitality, commercial properties, or complex building operations Comfortable balancing hands‑on technical work with leadership responsibilities Knowledgeable across HVAC, plumbing, electrical, preventative maintenance, life safety systems, and general building operations Experienced with access control systems, security infrastructure, and property technology systems Organized, proactive, and highly accountable with strong project management skills Calm under pressure and capable of troubleshooting complex operational issues A collaborative leader who builds strong relationships across departments and with external vendors Someone who takes genuine pride in maintaining beautiful spaces and delivering exceptional guest experiences through operational excellence Why This Is Different Independent ownership with a clear, heartfelt vision A thoughtfully designed boutique hotel and hospitality experience rooted in warmth, character, and longevity The opportunity to shape the maintenance culture, systems, and standards from day one A highly visible leadership role with meaningful influence on the guest experience and long‑term success of the property The chance to become a steward of a distinctive New Orleans property Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. 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