Chief Engineer (Avani Ibn Battuta Hotel Dubai)

Company Description

Contemporary, relaxed, and imaginative. Be it a leisurely family break or a romantic escape, AVANI Hotels & Resorts provides the right space for guests who value the details that matter.

Avani hotels are perfecting the balance between work and play, design and function, service, and privacy, laid back and lavish. 

Business or leisure? It’s up to you, with one of the best locations in Dubai. Part of the Ibn Battuta complex on Sheikh Zayed Road, you’re surrounded by boutiques, restaurants, and family fun galore. And with our own metro station, the rest of the city is within easy reach.

Job Description

The Chief Engineer is responsible for leading and managing the hotel’s Engineering Department to ensure the efficient operation, safety, and maintenance of all building systems and facilities. This role is critical in maintaining the hotel's infrastructure in line with UAE regulations. The Chief Engineer ensures all utilities (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fire safety, and life safety systems) function efficiently, sustainably, and without interruption.

Job responsibilities:

Operational & Technical Management

• Supervise and manage the daily operations of the Engineering department, including all preventive and corrective maintenance.
• Ensure that the building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire alarm & life safety) function optimally.
• Monitor energy consumption and implement initiatives to reduce utility costs and enhance energy efficiency (aligned with UAE sustainability goals).
• Maintain an up-to-date asset register and supervise PPM (Planned Preventive Maintenance) schedules.
• Prepare technical reports, budgets, and CAPEX planning for infrastructure upgrades or refurbishment projects.

Team Leadership

• Lead and motivate the engineering team, including supervisors, technicians, and contractors.
• Conduct regular training and development programs for the engineering team to uphold service excellence and safety standards.
• Prepare duty rosters and ensure adequate 24/7 coverage of engineering support.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with all local UAE regulations, municipal codes, Civil Defense, and safety protocols.
• Liaise with government authorities for inspections and certifications (e.g., DEWA, Civil Defense, Municipality).
• Oversee the hotel’s fire prevention program and lead emergency response procedures.

Project Management

• Oversee all engineering-related renovations, special projects, and hotel expansions.
• Manage contractor relationships and ensure all projects are completed within time and budget.
• Review and approve technical drawings and MEP plans

Qualifications

Qualifications & Experience:

• Degree or Diploma in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering (mandatory).
• Minimum 6–10 years of progressive engineering experience in a 4- or 5-star hotel, including at least 3 years in a leadership or department head role.
• Deep knowledge of hotel building systems and technical infrastructure.
• Strong knowledge of UAE regulatory requirements, including fire safety, environmental health, and building codes.
• Proficiency in building management systems (BMS) and CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems).
• Project management experience is a plus.
• Fluent in English

Additional Information

Core Competencies:

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Budget and cost control
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving
• Strong attention to detail and operational discipline
• Crisis and emergency management
• Commitment to sustainability and energy-saving initiatives
• Customer service orientation with a five-star luxury mindset

Working Conditions:

• On-call availability is required, especially in emergencies.
• Exposure to noise, vibrations, and mechanical operations.
• Physical ability to inspect areas throughout the property, including rooftops, basements, and plant rooms