Director of Engineering- Pre Opening Hotel

Over the past two decades, The First Group has forged a reputation as one of the hospitality industry’s leading innovators, providing groundbreaking investment opportunities to clients and partners, while delivering exceptional, memorable experiences to hotel and leisure guests. Our corporate ethos and unique vision for the future of hospitality is encapsulated in our fast-growing portfolio of award-winning hotels and residences, exciting F&B outlets and lifestyle venues, and delivered through our array of complementary third-party hotel and asset management services.

Core to our vision for the future of hospitality is The First Collection, our award-winning hotel brand that reflects the rich culture, innovative spirit, and unparalleled refinement for which Dubai is famous for. The First Collection’s urban lifestyle resorts, situated in prime locations across Dubai, are renowned for their unique blend of world-class hospitality and modern flair, as well as their cutting-edge guest facilities and services, which include exclusive access to the stunning Soluna Restaurants and Beach Club, located on the world-famous Palm Jumeirah.

Every hotel in our fast-growing portfolio reflects our ambition to capture the essence of urban living, blending it seamlessly with the tranquillity of a serene getaway. The First Collection echoes the city’s heartbeat, ensuring all our guests are made to feel a part of the magnificent tapestry of Dubai, the world’s most exciting metropolis.

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Director of Engineering to join our leadership team for the pre-opening of the tallest hotel in the world, located in the iconic Dubai Marina. This role requires a strategic and hands-on leader to oversee all engineering and maintenance operations, ensuring safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability throughout the property.

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Opening Phase:

• Develop and implement pre-opening plans for all engineering and maintenance operations, including systems testing and commissioning.
• Collaborate with project teams to ensure the property meets brand standards, local regulations, and operational requirements.
• Recruit, onboard, and train a high-performing engineering team to support the hotel's operations.
• Establish preventive maintenance schedules and procedures for all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety systems.
• Oversee the setup of the engineering department, including inventory management and procurement of tools and equipment.

Operational Excellence:

• Manage and maintain the property’s infrastructure, equipment, and systems to ensure optimal performance.
• Implement preventive and corrective maintenance programs to minimize downtime and extend the lifespan of equipment.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations across all engineering activities.
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure seamless support for operational needs and guest satisfaction.

Team Leadership:

• Provide leadership, coaching, and development opportunities to the engineering team.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused work environment.
• Ensure all team members are trained on operational and safety procedures.

Financial and Administrative Responsibilities:

• Prepare and manage the engineering department’s budget, ensuring alignment with the overall business plan.
• Monitor expenses, forecast needs, and implement cost-control measures.
• Analyze operational data to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions.

Sustainability and Innovation:

• Implement sustainable practices to reduce energy and water consumption while minimizing the hotel's environmental impact.
• Explore and introduce innovative technologies and solutions to enhance operational efficiency.
• Lead initiatives to achieve and maintain certifications for green building and sustainability standards.

Crisis Management:

• Develop and implement emergency response plans for engineering-related incidents.
• Ensure all fire safety systems are fully operational and team members are trained in emergency procedures.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil) or a related field.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in engineering leadership roles within large-scale or luxury hotel properties.
• Proven expertise in hotel pre-openings is highly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety systems.
• Familiarity with local building codes, safety regulations, and sustainability initiatives.
• Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in maintenance management systems and technology platforms.