Chief Engineer

Company DescriptionSofitel Al Hamra Beach ResortJob DescriptionWe're seeking an exceptional Chief Engineer to lead our engineering operations in Ras Al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. In this pivotal leadership role, you'll oversee all building systems, infrastructure, and maintenance operations while directing a talented engineering team. You'll be responsible for ensuring optimal performance, safety, and compliance across the entire property, while driving innovation and operational excellence. This is an opportunity to shape engineering strategy, mentor your team, and make a meaningful impact on our organization's success.
Lead, mentor, and develop the engineering department, fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous improvementDevelop and implement comprehensive engineering strategies, including planned preventative maintenance programs and capital improvement initiativesOversee the management and optimization of all critical building systems, including HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, water systems, BMS, and life-safety equipmentConduct regular inspections of guest rooms, public areas, back-of-house facilities, plant rooms, and building infrastructure to ensure safety and functionalityManage reactive and preventative maintenance operations, prioritizing effectively in a fast-paced environment while minimizing disruption to operationsEnsure strict adherence to statutory compliance requirements, building codes, and relevant legislation; maintain comprehensive documentation and asset registersCoordinate and supervise external contractors and specialist service providers, ensuring compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and permits to workDevelop and manage engineering budgets, control expenditure, and identify cost-saving opportunities through energy, water, and utility optimizationEstablish and maintain appropriate inventory levels of engineering spares, tools, and consumablesRespond decisively to engineering emergencies and critical system failures, implementing effective solutions with minimal operational impactCollaborate cross-functionally with Housekeeping, Front Office, Food & Beverage, Security, and other departments to resolve operational challengesParticipate in on-call and emergency response protocols as requiredAnalyze performance metrics, identify trends, and implement data-driven improvements to enhance operational efficiencySupport the organization's commitment to health, safety, environmental sustainability, and regulatory complianceEnsure all work is completed in accordance with manufacturer specifications, industry standards, and organizational proceduresQualificationsRequired Skills &

Experience:
Extensive experience as a Chief Engineer, Senior Engineering Manager, or equivalent leadership role in hospitality, commercial, or high-end residential environmentsAdvanced practical knowledge of building services, maintenance systems, and infrastructure managementDemonstrated expertise in HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and water systemsProven track record of successfully leading and supervising engineering teamsStrong experience managing contractors, vendors, and specialist service providersComprehensive understanding of statutory compliance, building codes, and planned preventative maintenance programsExcellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose complex technical issuesProficiency with IT systems and maintenance management softwareStrong budgeting, financial management, and procurement experienceExceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and motivate teamsDemonstrated attention to detail and organizational abilitiesProactive health and safety awareness with a commitment to risk mitigationPreferred Qualifications & Certifications:City & Guilds, NVQ, or BTEC engineering qualificationsElectrical or mechanical engineering certificationsIOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) certificationLegionella/L8 awareness certificationWater hygiene or water treatment certificationProject management certification or equivalent trainingEnergy management or sustainability certificationDomain Expertise:Strategic planning and capital project managementPerformance metrics, KPI development, and operational reportingStaff training, development, and performance managementRisk assessment, mitigation, and emergency response protocolsEnergy optimization and sustainability initiativesRegulatory compliance and inspection management