posted March 5, 2026
Compensation: $57.65 per hour
What's in it for you…
- 399 benefits
About this job...
The Chief Engineer is responsible for the overall maintenance, upkeep, and functionality of the hotel physical structure, mechanical systems, equipment, and guestrooms. Chief Engineers must be highly self-motivated and regimented to ensure routine maintenance tasks are completed safely and to standard. Serving as the lead of the hotel’s engineering department, the Chief Engineer must also lead and develop the maintenance team. The primary responsibility of the Chief Engineer is proactive upkeep of equipment and systems, proper and adequate repair of building and equipment, safe use of tools and other power equipment, effective troubleshooting of problems, support of guest and operational needs, and leadership of the engineering team.
What you'll be doing...
- Proactively maintain the physical building structure, building systems, and equipment by performing preventative and routine maintenance, recommending professional contractor support when needed.
- Ensure completion of grounds and custodial work as needed.
- Use tools and other power equipment, following all manufacturer and other safety guidelines to ensure safety of self and others.
- Complete needed or assigned building, equipment, or room repairs including but not limited to plumbing, painting, carpentry, sheetrock, and electrical work using the appropriate tools and methods consistent with standards of safety and quality.
- Prioritize repairs or maintenance needs that may inconvenience or negatively impact the experience of hotel guests.
- Effectively communicate with hotel departments to ensure timely response and completion of maintenance needs.
- Listen to guests and empathize with their challenges. When necessary, notify other departments and act on guests concerns.
- Always maintain professionalism consistent with hotel brand and company expectations.
- Train, instruct, and support the hotel’s engineering team.
- Know, maintain, and communicate hotel emergency procedures; inform and assist guests and operations in emergencies.
- If applicable, maintain balance and security of house bank and accurately log all transactions.
Success Factors...
Experience & Education:
- 5+ years of maintenance or engineering experience, preferably in a hotel or similar facility
- High School diploma or equivalency education certificate required
- Electrical and/or plumbing certification preferred
- Valid driver’s license may be required
Communication:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Must be able to speak, read, and write in primary language used in the workplace
Physical:
- 8+ hours per day; stand and walk frequently throughout the workday
- Reach, bend, stoop, kneel, and pivot frequently through workday
- Lift, lower, push, pull, and maneuver up to 75 pounds occasionally
About First Hospitality…
Founded in 1985 and based in Chicago, First Hospitality is a forward-thinking hotel development, investment, and management company. First Hospitality’s strategic vision is to create value for all through excellence and an openness to doing things differently.
First Hospitality seeks to attract and retain a high-performing and diverse workforce in which employee’s differences are respected and valued to better meet the varying needs of the customers we serve. FH fosters an inclusive work environment that promotes collaboration, flexibility, and fairness. Equal Opportunity Employer.
Hiltons at McCormick Place
123 East Cermak Rd
Suite 300
Chicago, IL 60616
Current Job Openings
Hiltons at McCormick Place
Hotel with 466 Rooms
Three Popular Brands, One Location
Nestled near the shore of Lake Michigan and in the heart of Chicago’s South Loop, our unique space boasts three popular Hilton brands with 466 total guest rooms for your convenience. Lounge in our elegantly designed lobby, relax by the indoor pool, or take the elevator up to our rooftop restaurant for a premium 360-degree view of the city. Discover comfort, productivity, and direct access to Chicago’s McCormick Place Convention Center and surrounding attractions. With three great hotels to choose from, you can find the perfect stay to suit your needs at the Hiltons at McCormick Place.
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place
We are connected to McCormick Place Convention Center and Wintrust Arena via sky-bridge. Soldier Field is within a mile and the nearby train brings guests to Millennium Park and downtown attractions. Guests can enjoy a view of Chicago and Lake Michigan at our VU Skyward rooftop bar.
Hampton Inn Chicago McCormick Place
We are connected to McCormick Place and located across from Wintrust Arena. The Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and the Field Museum are under 10 minutes’ drive from our door. Within walking distance, Soldier Field and Michigan Avenue are under a mile away. Our hotel has a fitness center and indoor pool. WiFi and daily hot breakfast are on us.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place
The best of South Loop is on our doorstep: We’re next to Wintrust Arena, with a skybridge to the McCormick Place convention center and easy access to Chicago’s top attractions. Your stay includes an in-suite kitchen, free WiFi, and free daily breakfast. While you’re here, admire sweeping views of Lake Michigan from the 22nd floor rooftop bar, or take a swim in our indoor pool.
