Director of Engineering - Taskforce in Santa Cruz, California at La Bahia Resort and Spa

ABOUT US:

Nestled along the Pacific Coast, La Bahia Hotel & Spa celebrates its dramatic setting where the tip of Monterey Bay touches Sana Cruz's coveted Main Beach. Steeped in the romantic beauty of Spanish-Mediterranean architecture, locals and travelers alike will savor globally influenced cuisine, cocktails and wellness rituals infused with the region's agricultural bounty and coast-cultured Spirit.

SUMMARY:

La Bahia Hotel & Spa is seeking an experienced Director of Engineering – Taskforce to provide interim leadership and technical expertise as needed. This role deploys to support engineering leadership vacancies, transition periods, or operational challenges, ensuring continuity of engineering standards, safety compliance, and team performance until permanent leadership is in place or the situation is stabilized.

This is an ideal role for a seasoned hotel engineering leader who thrives in dynamic environments, adapts quickly to new teams, and can step into a leadership vacuum with confidence and sound judgment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as acting Director of Engineering, providing hands-on leadership to the engineering team during transitional periods.
• Quickly assess the condition of building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire life safety) and identify immediate risks, deficiencies, or compliance gaps.
• Stabilize engineering operations by implementing or reinforcing preventative maintenance programs, safety protocols, and standard operating procedures.
• Provide coaching, direction, and support to engineering staff, maintaining morale and performance during periods of change.
• Partner with the General Manager and hotel leadership to communicate property condition, risks, and recommended action plans.
• Support special projects as needed, including system commissioning, punch list management, and equipment testing and certification.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, fire codes, environmental standards, and brand engineering standards.
• Assist in recruiting, interviewing, or training permanent engineering leadership as needed for a smooth handoff.
• Document property condition, completed work, and outstanding items in a clear transition report at the conclusion of each assignment.
• Collaborate with other departments to support operational needs and guest satisfaction
• Assists staff with job functions as needed to ensure optimum service to all guests.
• Support safe work habits and a safe working environment at all times.
• Perform all other duties that may be assigned as needed by your manager.

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Previous experience as a Hotel Chief Engineer required

• Minimum 3+ years of experience as a Hotel Chief Engineer or Director of Engineering
• Experience with hotel openings, engineering leadership transitions, or turnaround situations strongly preferred
• HVAC certification and refrigeration experience required
• Strong working knowledge of electrical, mechanical, life safety, and preventative maintenance systems
• Budget management and cost control experience (stationary engineering license preferred)
• Demonstrated ability to quickly build trust and lead teams in unfamiliar environments
• Valid driver's license required
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to report clearly to property leadership

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met successfully to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to lift 30 lbs. Occasional lifting of 45 lbs. or more.
• Must be able to stand and walk for long periods of time.

Additional Compensation & Benefits:

• Housing provided for the duration of the assignment
• Per diem provided to cover daily living expenses
• Travel costs to and from the assignment covered

This role offers a unique opportunity for an engineering leader who enjoys variety, high-impact problem solving, and the chance to make a real difference. If you're a strategic, hands-on leader who's energized by new challenges, we invite you to apply.