Director of Engineering

The Director of Engineering is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for preserving the integrity, elegance, and performance of a distinctive independent luxury resort. Unlike branded environments, this role requires a highly adaptable leader who can balance strategic oversight with hands-on execution, ensuring the property delivers a unique, personalized guest experience while maintaining exceptional operational standards.

Responsibilities

Serve as a strategic partner to the General Manager and ownership group; contribute to long-term property planning, asset preservation, and brand positioning; build and lead a high-performing, service-oriented engineering team; oversee all maintenance and engineering functions across guest rooms, villas, public spaces, restaurants, spa, and grounds; maintain the property's distinctive design, finishes, and luxury aesthetic standards; ensure all building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, pools, irrigation, life safety) operate flawlessly; actively engage in day-to-day operations, stepping in when needed to troubleshoot or resolve complex issues; maintain strong visibility across the property and respond quickly to operational needs; lead by example in both technical expertise and service excellence; develop and execute capital expenditure plans aligned with ownership goals; oversee renovations, upgrades, and special projects with a focus on quality craftsmanship and minimal guest disruption; source and manage local contractors, artisans, and specialty vendors; prepare and manage departmental budgets with a strong focus on cost efficiency and ROI; implement energy conservation and sustainability initiatives without compromising guest comfort; optimize inventory, tools, and staffing levels; ensure full compliance with Florida building codes, safety regulations, and environmental standards; oversee emergency preparedness, hurricane readiness, and disaster recovery planning; conduct routine inspections and enforce preventative maintenance programs; collaborate closely with Rooms, Food & Beverage, and Spa teams to ensure seamless guest experiences; respond to guest concerns with urgency and discretion, maintaining a luxury service mindset; support customized guest requests and unique property experiences

Requirements

8-12+ years of engineering experience; at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within luxury hospitality or high-end residential environments; deep technical knowledge of resort systems, including pools, water features, and coastal property maintenance; proven success managing renovations and capital projects in an operating environment; strong leadership presence with a hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves approach; familiarity with CMMS and energy management systems; entrepreneurial mindset and operational flexibility; strong ownership mentality and accountability; attention to detail with a passion for craftsmanship and design integrity; ability to balance luxury standards with practical execution; decisive leadership in high-pressure situations (e.g., weather events, system failures); excellent communication skills across all levels of the organization

Nice to have

Experience in independent or boutique properties strongly preferred

Benefits

comprehensive health insurance; retirement plans; paid time off; on-site wellness programs; local discounts; employee rates on hotel stays; ongoing training and development opportunities; performance-based bonus; comprehensive benefits package; relocation assistance (if applicable)