Director of Engineering

About SO/ Bangkok

Located in the vibrant capital of exotic Thailand, SO/ Bangkok combines modern dynamism with classic wonder in a true meeting of East and West. With 237 rooms and suites, the urban luxury design hotel offers themed accommodations created around the Five Elements - Water, Earth, Wood, Metal, and Fire. Inspired and innovative, SO/ Bangkok is an iconic landmark of design and a masterpiece of collaboration by Thailand’s top five designers and world renowned fashion designer Monsieur Christian Lacroix.  

An exciting selection of innovative restaurants and bars showcase the very best in refined dining in a variety of relaxing ambiences. SO/ Bangkok commands a prime central location where anything is possible, from contemporary high-rises to traditional Buddhist temples, from bustling street markets to ritzy upscale shopping complexes, from notorious nightlife to a gourmet’s choice of dining.

Job Purpose

The Director of Engineering is responsible for leading, managing, and supervising all maintenance and engineering operations for the hotel’s interior and exterior facilities. This includes electrical, refrigeration, plumbing, HVAC, structural systems, parking areas, and all related infrastructure. The role ensures the property is maintained in optimum operating condition while safeguarding the safety, comfort, and satisfaction of guests and employees.

Primary Responsibilities

Administration & Leadership

• Develop, implement, and maintain departmental rules, procedures, and performance standards.

• Ensure all employees are fully knowledgeable of and compliant with hotel policies related to fire safety, health, hygiene, and security.

• Recruit, select, and onboard engineering staff in collaboration with the Human Resources department.

• Develop and execute the Engineering strategic plan in collaboration with the local management team.

• Train, supervise, and evaluate engineering team members, fostering a culture of safety and professionalism.

• Assist in safety, emergency, and evacuation training for hotel employees.

Technical & Operational Responsibilities

• Maintain and oversee all utility distribution systems including electricity, water, steam, and gas.

• Operate and maintain HVAC, ventilation, refrigeration, and heating systems.

• Ensure structural integrity and general upkeep of all buildings and facilities.

• Monitor, coordinate, and evaluate services provided by external contractors in accordance with contracts, service agreements, and warranties.

• Maintain accurate records related to heat, light, power usage, and facility operating costs.

• Ensure prompt response to maintenance requests from guests, employees, and management, including repairs and replacements of fixtures and furnishings.

• Schedule daily maintenance activities to minimize disruption to hotel operations and guest experience.

• Plan, implement, and manage a comprehensive preventive maintenance program based on best engineering practices.

• Conduct regular inspections of buildings and equipment, recommending and implementing corrective actions as required.

• Maintain clean, organized, and hazard-free work areas at all times.

Energy & Sustainability Management

• Plan, implement, and administer an effective energy management program.

• Maintain equipment operating logs and utility consumption records.

• Monitor and control utility usage to ensure optimal energy efficiency across all departments.

• Establish annual energy reduction targets and track performance against objectives.

• Analyze and adjust plant operations to conserve energy and reduce costs.

• Educate department heads and employees on energy-saving initiatives.

• Recommend equipment upgrades or replacements to improve energy efficiency.

Financial & Commercial Responsibilities

• Prepare and manage capital expenditure and maintenance budgets.

• Select and manage vendors and contractors in line with quality standards and cost requirements.

• Initiate purchase orders and maintain purchasing records.

• Ensure adequate inventory levels of spare parts, tools, and supplies.

• Establish systems for recording, monitoring, and reporting utility consumption and costs.

Training, HR & Workplace Culture

• Provide a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and victimization.

• Handle complaints related to harassment or discrimination promptly, confidentially, and professionally.

• Treat guests and colleagues from all cultural backgrounds with respect and sensitivity.

• Identify and address issues that may lead to cross-cultural conflict or misunderstanding.

Miscellaneous

• Comply with all reasonable requests from supervisors within normal operational timeframes.

• Perform additional duties as required to support business needs and hotel operations.

• Uphold hotel service standards by ensuring all facilities and equipment are maintained to the highest standards.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or related field) preferred.

• Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive experience in hotel or commercial facility engineering, with at least 3–5 years in a senior management or Director of Engineering role.

• Strong technical knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, refrigeration, fire/life safety systems, and building maintenance.

• Proven experience in preventive maintenance programs, energy management, and sustainability initiatives.

• Experience in vendor management, contract negotiations, and service agreement administration.

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team-development skills with the ability to manage a diverse workforce.

• Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

• Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with senior management, colleagues, and external partners.

• Fluent in both Thai and English.

Benefits:

• Life & Health insurance
• SSO
• Duty Meals
• Provident fund
• Heartist Card