Director of Engineering

Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $15 billion of assets under management and a global portfolio of more than 400 hotels spanning North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

With a 30-year track record as an innovator in the hospitality industry, this forward-thinking company provides expert guidance through all stages of the property cycle, from planning and development through recapitalization or disposition. Highgate continues to demonstrate success in developing a diverse portfolio of bespoke lifestyle hotel brands, legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts, featuring contemporary programming and digital acumen. The company utilizes industry-leading revenue management tools that efficiently identify and predict evolving market dynamics to drive outperformance and maximize asset value.

With an executive team of seasoned hospitality leaders and corporate offices worldwide, Highgate is a trusted partner for top ownership groups and major hotel brands. www.highgate.com

Located in the exclusive Nob Hill neighborhood and in the process of going through a complete reimagination, The Huntington provides guests with modern amenities and conveniences within a historic space. Guests can enjoy fine dining, a three level spa, beautiful rooms and suites as well as meeting and event spaces without ever leaving the property. The Huntington provides guests with the best location and amenities San Francisco has to offer.

The Director of Engineering is responsible for all administrative, financial and operating aspects of the hotel as they directly relate to the engineering division. He/she is responsible for the safe and profitable operation of the hotel. This role will be based at the historical Huntington Hotel in the heart of Nob Hil.

Supervise and train all Engineering staff in Customer Service, Empowerment, Standard Operating Procedures and Loss Prevention Standards.
• Create, approve and post all Engineering staff schedules according to Highgate Hotel standards.
• Create and adhere to annual budget for department.
• Develop financial forecasts and actively participate in monthly profit/loss review meetings.
• Develop and implement plans to maintain property, equipment, grounds and other assets in an acceptable state of repair.
• Ensure the hotel is in compliance with all local, state and federal laws.
• Create and implement a preventative maintenance program for all hotel equipment.
• Ensure that all emergency and life safety equipment and systems are inspected, tested and certified per Highgate Hotel standards.
• Ensure that room maintenance requests are handled in a prompt and courteous manner.
• Follow up on all alarms immediately to determine the exact location and cause. Determine emergency status and report findings to Front Desk. Take immediate action as necessary.
• Assist as necessary with special projects and renovations.
• Actively participate in energy conservation programs.
• Review all guest and meeting planner comment cards to ensure problems are identified and corrected in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with the Americans Disabilities Act (ADA).
• Administer all vendor contracts controlled by the engineering department.
• Support and participate in all Highgate Hotel programs.
• Lead and participate in Highgate Hotel Safety Committee.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or a related technical discipline strongly preferred. Equivalent professional experience may be considered.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive engineering/facilities management experience, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership or Director of Engineering role at a luxury hotel, resort, or large-scale hospitality property.
• Demonstrated track record of overseeing complex building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, life-safety, elevators, mechanical, BMS).
• Proven success managing capital improvement projects, property renovations, and large-scale preventive maintenance programs in a luxury setting.
• Experience with historic or landmark properties is highly desirable, especially managing upgrades while preserving architectural integrity.
• Previous experience leading unionized engineering teams is preferred.

Licenses & Certifications

• Certified Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Plant Engineer (CPE), or Facilities Management certification (CFM, FMA, or similar) highly preferred.
• OSHA 10/30 and EPA Universal Technician certifications strongly preferred.
• LEED Accreditation or certification in sustainability/energy management a plus.

Leadership & Strategy

• Lead the Engineering & Maintenance department, providing direction, mentorship, and professional development for team members.
• Implement preventive maintenance programs to extend equipment life and minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on capital planning, renovations, and energy conservation initiatives.
• Contribute to overall property strategy and decision-making as part of the hotel's Executive Committee.

Operations & Maintenance

• Oversee daily repair, upkeep, and functionality of HVAC, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and building systems.
• Ensure guestrooms, public areas, back-of-house, and exterior areas meet luxury brand standards.
• Manage third-party contractors and service providers, ensuring projects meet safety, quality, and budgetary expectations.
• Maintain accurate records of inspections, repairs, and compliance documentation.

Safety, Compliance & Sustainability

• Ensure full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA, fire safety, and environmental requirements.
• Lead hotel safety initiatives, including life-safety systems, fire drills, and emergency preparedness.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage the engineering department budget, covering operating expenses and capital expenditures.
• Monitor costs, implement efficiency measures, and ensure resource optimization.