Engineering Manager (Hotel Pre-Opening)

As an Engineering Manager in this Pre-Opening Hotel, you’re not just overseeing physical building and systems maintenance and repairs – you’re spreading the light and warmth of hospitality by delivering memorable experiences that make the stay for every guest.

Here’s what you’ll do during a typical day:

• Lead and develop a high-performing team: Recruit, train, supervise, and mentor team members; conduct performance evaluations, provide professional development opportunities, and recognise achievements to build a motivated and high-performing team

• Ensure safety and compliance: Oversee the maintenance of the physical building, mechanical systems, electrical systems, HVAC, and life safety systems, coordinate inspections, and uphold safety and compliance standards in line with national and local regulations

• Manage daily maintenance operations: Oversee maintenance activities, prioritize tasks, and verify completion through the property maintenance management system; ensure timely resolution of service requests, guest concerns, and emergencies

• Support property improvement projects: Assist in directing capital projects and property rehabilitations – including scheduling, budgeting, contractor bidding, and licensing/permitting – while ensuring regulatory compliance

• Lead energy efficiency initiatives: Develop and oversee property-wide energy conservation programs to reduce utility costs

• Drive engineering performance: Monitor departmental Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including equipment upkeep, audit results, and team productivity and act as need to improve performance

• Support hotel-wide operational leadership: Collaborate with the broader hotel leadership team in overseeing evacuation procedures, duty manager coverage, and other safety protocols as needed.

Key Responsibilities for Hotel Pre-Opening Leaders

• Project Management: Oversee timelines, budgets, and resources; manage construction, procurement, and vendor coordination; ensure compliance with deadlines and regulations.
• Strategic Planning: Develop and execute pre-opening plans; set priorities, anticipate challenges, and establish operational workflows.
• Operational Readiness: Ensure all departments (front office, housekeeping, F&B, engineering) are prepared; coordinate training and brand standards implementation.
• Team Leadership: Recruit, onboard, and train staff; foster collaboration and maintain team focus under pressure.
• Financial Management: Manage pre-opening budgets; monitor forecasts; negotiate vendor contracts and control costs.
• Brand Standards: Ensure consistency in design, service, and operations aligned with brand guidelines.
• Problem-Solving: Address unexpected issues quickly; manage risks and maintain safety compliance.
• Attention to Detail: Oversee final construction, design, and furnishing; ensure operational processes meet quality standards.
• Communication: Maintain transparent updates with owners, investors, and stakeholders; represent the project in pre-opening events.
• Adaptability: Adjust plans as needed; stay resilient under fast-paced, high-pressure conditions.
• Customer Focus: Ensure guest experience remains the top priority from day one.

What are we looking for?

To successfully fill this role, you should maintain the attitude, behaviours, skills, and values that follow:

• Advanced knowledge of building management/engineering
• A degree in Engineering or similar
• Exposure to budgeting and basic accounting
• Positive attitude
• Good communication skills
• Committed to delivering a high level of customer service
• Strong leadership skills and previous experience of managing a team
• Excellent grooming standards
• Flexibility to respond to a range of different work situations
• Ability to work under pressure
• Ability to work on their own
• Previous experience of facilities management
• Proficient, at an advanced level, with computers and relevant computer programs

It would be advantageous in this position for you to demonstrate the following capabilities and distinctions:

• First Aid
• Qualification in engineering field

What will it be like to work for Hilton?

Hilton is the leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and mid-priced hotels. For nearly a century, Hilton has offered business and leisure travelers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value. Hilton is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands. Our vision “to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality” unites us as a team to create remarkable hospitality experiences around the world every day. And, our amazing Team Members are at the heart of it all!