Seasonal Chief Engineer

The Chief Engineer is responsible for directing, overseeing, and managing all aspects of the hotel s engineering and maintenance operations. This includes the efficient operation of all mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), HVAC, and structural systems, alongside civil works and grounds maintenance. The role ensures full compliance with Accor brand standards, Saudi Arabian local regulations, and strict sustainability protocols while maintaining an exceptional, safe environment for guests and team members. Key Responsibilities

1. Operational & Technical Management

• Direct day-to-day engineering operations, ensuring all guest rooms, public areas, heart-of-house spaces, and residences are maintained in pristine condition.
• Manage and optimize the operation of major plant equipment, including HVAC, chillers, boilers, electrical substations, fire life safety (FLS) systems, and water treatment facilities.
• Oversee a robust Preventive Maintenance (PM) program across all equipment and facilities to minimize downtime and extend asset lifespans.
• Respond swiftly and effectively to emergency maintenance requests and operational breakdowns.

2. Financial & Asset Management

• Formulate, monitor, and manage the Engineering department's annual operating budget (OpEx) and Capital Expenditure (CapEx) plans.
• Implement aggressive energy-conservation and waste-management programs to control utility costs without compromising guest comfort.
• Oversee contract negotiations and manage relations with third-party vendors, contractors, and service providers, ensuring strict adherence to SLAs.

3. Compliance, Safety & Security

• Ensure the property is 100% compliant with Saudi Arabia s local building codes, civil defense regulations, and municipality standards.
• Maintain and regularly test all Fire Life Safety (FLS) systems, organizing regular drills and training sessions in coordination with the Risk & Security team.
• Drive environmental and sustainability initiatives aligned with Accor s Planet 21 / ESG commitments and local regulatory frameworks (e.g., SFDA or municipal hygiene standards affecting engineering/water quality).

4. Leadership & Culture

• Lead, mentor, and develop the engineering team, fostering a high-performance "hotelier" culture focused on attention to detail.

• In coordination with the People & Culture department, identify training needs, manage performance evaluations, and actively support the development and integration of Saudi national talent (Saudization initiatives) within the technical team.

• Maintain seamless communication and collaboration with other departments, particularly Housekeeping, Front Office, and Food & Beverage, to resolve issues promptly.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering, or an equivalent technical degree.

• Professional certifications in facilities management or safety are highly preferred.

• Minimum of 5-8 years of experience as a Seasonal Chief Engineer or premium international 5-star hotel or luxury serviced residences.

• Experience within the GCC (specifically KSA) is a distinct advantage.

• Deep knowledge of building management systems (BMS), MEP infrastructure, HVAC, and FLS codes.

• Proficiency in maintenance management software (e.g., Opera, Maximo, or similar).

• Fluent in English (written and spoken) is mandatory.

• Arabic language skills are highly valued.

• Strong leadership capabilities, strategic financial planning, exceptional problem-solving skills under pressure, and a sharp eye for asset preservation.