Marriott International

Area Director of Engineering

Marriott International$160K — $180K *
Hospitality & Recreation
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 7-10 years in hotel engineering leadership.
  • Prior experience as a Director of Engineering required.
  • Multi-property management experience preferred.
  • Strong familiarity with HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems.
  • Background in managing unionized engineering teams preferred.
  • Experience with large-scale capital project management.
  • Proven financial management and budget expertise.

Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic oversight for engineering operations across two hotels.
  • Lead and develop engineering teams and managers.
  • Manage annual engineering budgets for both properties.
  • Ensure adherence to preventive maintenance and brand standards.
  • Guarantee compliance with regulatory and safety standards.
  • Supervise major building systems including HVAC and electrical.
  • Lead capital improvement projects from start to finish.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to lead engineering for premier hotels.
  • Engagement with ownership and asset management teams.
  • Focus on continuous improvement and teamwork culture.
  • Development of long-term asset preservation strategies.
  • Involvement in sustainability and energy management initiatives.
Full Job Description
Position Summary

The Area Director of Engineering is responsible for the strategic leadership, operational excellence, and overall management of the Engineering departments for two premier hotels totaling more than 1,100 guestrooms in downtown Chicago. This position oversees all building systems, capital planning, preventive maintenance, life safety, regulatory compliance, and engineering team development while ensuring both properties operate safely, efficiently, and to brand standards.

Reporting directly to the General Manager of the Westin Michigan Avenue Chicago, the Area Director of Engineering will provide leadership to engineering managers, supervisors, and team members across both hotels while partnering closely with ownership, asset management, and hotel leadership teams.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Provide strategic oversight for all engineering operations at both hotels.
  • Lead, coach, and develop engineering leadership and hourly teams.
  • Develop and manage annual engineering operating and capital budgets.
  • Oversee all preventive maintenance programs and ensure compliance with brand standards.
  • Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA, fire life safety, and environmental requirements.
  • Manage major building systems including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, elevators, fire protection, refrigeration, and building automation systems.
  • Lead capital improvement projects from planning through completion.
  • Develop long-term asset preservation strategies.
  • Negotiate and manage vendor contracts and service agreements.
  • Ensure emergency preparedness plans are maintained and regularly tested.
  • Respond to significant operational issues and provide technical leadership during emergencies.
  • Partner with Operations, Housekeeping, Food & Beverage, Sales, and Finance to support hotel performance.
  • Monitor energy management initiatives and identify cost-saving opportunities.
  • Maintain accurate maintenance records and engineering documentation.
  • Foster a culture focused on accountability, safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.


Requirements

Qualifications
  • Minimum 7-10 years of progressive hotel engineering leadership experience.
  • Previous Director of Engineering experience required.
  • Multi-property leadership experience strongly preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical systems, life safety systems, and building automation.
  • Experience leading union engineering teams preferred.
  • Experience managing large-scale capital projects.
  • Strong financial acumen and budget management skills.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational abilities.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced luxury and full-service hotel environment.
Preferred Experience
  • Marriott and Hilton brand experience.
  • High-rise hotel engineering experience.
  • Chicago union environment experience.
  • Knowledge of sustainability and energy management initiatives.
Leadership Competencies
  • Strategic Thinking
  • Operational Excellence
  • Financial Stewardship
  • Team Development
  • Change Leadership
  • Problem Solving
  • Collaboration
  • Guest Service Excellence

This is an executive leadership position responsible for protecting two significant hospitality assets while ensuring exceptional guest experiences through reliable, efficient, and safe hotel operations.

Salary Description

$160,000 - $180,000

About Marriott International

Marriott International is a hospitality company with more than 3,900 properties around the world. Marriot International opened its first hotel in 1957 and operates franchises worldwide. The company’s headquarters is based in Maryland and employees nearly 200,000 people worldwide.   The company was founded by J. Willard and Alice Marriott in 1927 by opening a root beer stand in Washington D.C.

Marriott International Careers

Join the vibrant team at Marriott International, the global leader in hospitality, where career opportunities abound and the potential for growth is limitless. As part of our commitment to innovation and leadership in the industry, we are continuously seeking passionate, creative, and driven individuals to join our diverse team. Work You’ll Do At Marriott International, you will be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional development. Engage in meaningful work that enhances the travel experience of each guest while fostering a positive environment where all team members can thrive. Our team at Marriott International leads the way in delivering exceptional service and innovative hospitality solutions. With a variety of job opportunities ranging from front-line roles to executive positions, you can find the perfect match for your skills and career ambitions. Marriott International’s commitment to growth and innovation means we are always on the lookout for dynamic professionals to join our team. Whether you are seeking your first job, looking for a challenging leadership role, or aiming to specialize in hospitality management, Marriott offers unparalleled employment opportunities. Internship and Training Programs Kickstart your career with Marriott International’s internship programs. These opportunities provide invaluable industry experience and a chance to develop essential skills in a real-world setting. Interns at Marriott are treated as integral members of the team and are involved in projects that make a tangible impact on the company. In addition to internships, we offer comprehensive diversity training and professional development programs that prepare you for future leadership roles within the company. Our training programs are designed to enhance your capabilities and ensure you are equipped to meet the challenges of the evolving hospitality landscape. Benefits and Career Growth Marriott International believes in rewarding our employees for their dedication and hard work. We offer a competitive benefits package that includes health, vision, and dental insurance, employee discounts, and more. Moreover, we are committed to the professional growth of our employees. Career advancement at Marriott is not just a possibility—it is a priority. Join Our Team Explore the wide range of job opportunities at Marriott International. We are hiring across various departments, including management, customer service, culinary arts, and more. Bring your unique skills and perspective to our team, and help us continue to innovate and lead in the hospitality industry. Networking and Professional Development Stay connected and advance your career through Marriott’s extensive networking opportunities. Our professional community is designed to foster connections that can lead to career advancement and personal growth. Engage with leaders, gain industry insights, and build relationships that will support your career aspirations. Apply Now Ready to take the next step in your career? Search open positions that match your skills and interests on the Marriott Careers page. We look for individuals who are curious, team-oriented, and committed to excellence. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and join one of the most respected names in the global hospitality industry. Stay Up to Date Keep informed with the latest career tips, company news, and industry insights from Marriott International. Join our community and discover how you can contribute to the world of hospitality and beyond. Explore job opportunities, embrace professional growth, and become part of a company that values innovation and leadership. At Marriott International, your career journey is just beginning.
Learn more about Marriott International
Size
120,000 employees
Market Cap
$46.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
-$267 million
Founded
1927
5 Year Trend
-2.1%
Revenue
$10.5 billion
NASDAQ

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