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Chief Engineer Hotel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Engineer Hotel Location: Lake Forest, IL Salary: $70K - $73K ++ Position Overview We're looking for a Chief Engineer who understands that in a boutique hotel, every detail matters. This isn't a ...

Chief Engineer - Hotel

Niagara Falls, NY · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

At Merani Hotel Group, we specialize in creating exceptional hospitality experiences across Niagara ... As part of our commitment to excellence, we are seeking a skilled and dedicated Chief Engineer to ...

Chief Engineer Lead all general and preventative maintenance for the Hilton Garden Inn Flushing ... HHM Hotels offers a competitive salary package that aligns with market standards, with the highest ...

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Chief Engineer Hotel information

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$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do chief engineer hotel jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief engineer hotel in the United States is $92,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Chief Engineer in a hotel setting?

A Chief Engineer in a hotel typically oversees the maintenance and repair of all building systems, including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical infrastructure, and manages a team of engineers or maintenance technicians. You'll routinely inspect the property, coordinate preventive maintenance, troubleshoot urgent issues, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Collaboration with the housekeeping, front office, and management teams is common to address guest requests or major projects. You will also monitor energy usage, manage equipment inventories, and participate in budgeting for repairs and capital improvements, making your role critical to both operational success and guest satisfaction.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Chief engineers in large hotels or hospitality management can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and responsibilities overseeing engineering operations. High salaries are typically found in luxury or high-end properties and may include bonuses or profit sharing.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Chief engineers in large hotels or hospitality management may earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. Such high compensation typically requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities overseeing engineering operations and maintenance.

What is a Chief Engineer Hotel job?

A Chief Engineer in a hotel is responsible for overseeing the property's maintenance, repair, and engineering operations. They ensure that all building systems—such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and refrigeration—function efficiently and comply with safety regulations. Their role includes managing maintenance staff, budgeting for repairs, and implementing energy-saving initiatives. The Chief Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining guest comfort and operational efficiency.

How much does a Marriott Chief Engineer make?

A Marriott Chief Engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on the hotel's size, location, and the engineer's experience. The role requires technical skills in maintenance, HVAC, and safety protocols, often with relevant certifications. Salaries can vary based on the hotel's standards and operational complexity.

What is a Chief Engineer at a hotel?

A Chief Engineer at a hotel is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, safety, and operation of the building's mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. They manage maintenance staff, ensure compliance with safety standards, and coordinate repairs to ensure a comfortable guest experience. The role often requires technical skills, certifications, and availability for emergency situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Chief Engineer Hotel position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Engineer Hotel, you need expertise in facility management, HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS), CMMS software, and safety compliance certifications such as OSHA are highly valued. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential for overseeing maintenance staff and coordinating with other hotel departments. These competencies ensure safe, efficient hotel operations and contribute to guest satisfaction and asset longevity.

More about Chief Engineer Hotel jobs
What cities are hiring for Chief Engineer Hotel jobs? Cities with the most Chief Engineer Hotel job openings:
What states have the most Chief Engineer Hotel jobs? States with the most job openings for Chief Engineer Hotel jobs include:
Infographic showing various Chief Engineer Hotel job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Chief Engineer Hotel

Gecko Hospitality

Lake Forest, IL

$67K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Chief Engineer Hotel

Location: Lake Forest, IL

Salary: $70K - $73K ++



Position Overview


We're looking for a Chief Engineer who understands that in a boutique hotel, every detail matters. This isn't a large property where a maintenance issue gets lost in the shuffle. Here, the work you do directly shapes the guest experience, protects the property, and keeps operations running without interruption.


As Chief Engineer, you'll own every physical and mechanical system in the building. You'll lead preventive maintenance, manage vendor partnerships, and work closely with hotel leadership to keep standards high and surprises low. The scale of a boutique property means your impact is visible, your decisions carry weight, and your expertise is genuinely valued.

If you take pride in a property that runs the way it should, this role gives you the ownership to make that happen.


Key Responsibilities

  • Building Systems Management: Maintain and troubleshoot all building systems, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical. Keep everything operating at peak performance with minimal downtime.
  • Preventive Maintenance: Build, manage, and refine preventive maintenance programs that protect equipment, extend asset life, and reduce reactive repairs.
  • Vendor Relationships: Source, manage, and hold vendors accountable. Negotiate service agreements, oversee contracted work, and ensure quality and cost control on every project.
  • Life Safety and Compliance: Ensure full compliance with life safety codes, fire systems, health regulations, and local building requirements. Keep documentation current and inspection-ready at all times.
  • Leadership Coordination: Work alongside the General Manager and department heads to align engineering priorities with operational goals, capital planning, and guest satisfaction.
  • Budget Oversight: Manage the engineering budget, track spending, and plan for capital improvements that support the property's long-term condition and value.
  • Emergency Response: Lead the response to mechanical failures, outages, and facility emergencies with calm, decisive action that protects guests, staff, and the property.


Required Qualifications

  • Minimum of five years of engineering or facilities experience, preferably within a hotel, resort, or hospitality setting.
  • Hands-on technical proficiency across HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
  • Relevant certifications such as HVAC certification, EPA Universal Certification, CFC certification, or a CPO (Certified Pool Operator) credential. Boiler and electrical licenses are a plus.
  • Working knowledge of life safety systems, building codes, and regulatory compliance.
  • Experience managing vendors, service contracts, and maintenance budgets.
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Clear communication skills and the ability to work directly with hotel leadership and guests.



If interested, please send your resume to jay@geckohospitality.com for immediate review and consideration.