At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering operations and ensure luxury standards at a historic hotel.
- Company: Join the prestigious Auberge Collection, known for exceptional hospitality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting pre-opening team and shape a landmark hotel experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in luxury hotel engineering and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant setting with a focus on heritage and modern luxury.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Since 1756, Cambridge House has been the home where the Great and the Glorious gather. The storied Mayfair townhouse reawakens in 2026. The imaginative renewal of this historic property at 94 Piccadilly will capture the spirit of London like no other, providing a captivating new Mayfair destination for Londoners and international visitors alike.
As Chief Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in the pre‑opening and ongoing operation of Cambridge House. Reporting to the Director of Engineering, you will oversee all engineering operations, ensuring the building, plant, and systems operate at the highest luxury standards while preserving the character of this historic property. This is a hands‑on role combining strategic oversight with daily presence, ensuring that engineering operations run smoothly, guest experiences are seamless, and team members are supported in their roles.
Key Responsibilities:- Engineering Operations & Pre‑Opening Support: Act as the first point of contact for internal and external stakeholders seeking support or information from the Engineering Department. Lead and coordinate pre‑opening commissioning activities, ensuring all building systems and equipment are ready for operation. Oversee the maintenance and safe operation of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, life‑safety, and building management systems. Protect and maintain the historic fabric of Cambridge House while supporting operational needs. Coordinate contracted maintenance services and statutory inspections, maintaining an annual calendar to minimise disruption to hotel operations. Respond to technical issues decisively, maintaining a visible and reassuring presence for team members and guests.
- Team Leadership & Administration: Support the Director of Engineering in managing the daily activities of the engineering team. Provide administrative oversight, including tracking service orders, work permits, contractor access, and bid packages. Assist with payroll, scheduling, and maintaining department calendars. Maintain accurate records in the Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and ensure team members are supported in inputting data correctly. Communicate regularly with operational departments, keeping the hotel team updated on works affecting guest areas.
- Purchasing & Inventory Control (Birchstreet): Manage purchasing and procurement using Birchstreet, ensuring purchase requests, orders, and reconciliations are accurate and timely. Support inventory management, including item codes, order guides, and preferred vendor lists in Birchstreet. Assist with vendor selection, competitive bidding, and preparation of RFPs and bid documentation. Handle daily receiving of goods and services in Birchstreet, tracking unmatched invoices and departmental checkbooks. Maintain records and reporting for capital projects, maintenance, and service contracts.
- Safety & Compliance: Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and statutory regulations. Monitor and support safety standards across the hotel, responding appropriately to incidents or emergencies. Maintain a clean, organised, and safe working environment for team members and contractors.
- Proven experience as a Chief Engineer or Senior Engineering Manager in a luxury hotel environment, ideally with pre‑opening experience.
- Strong technical knowledge across hotel engineering systems, including heritage or listed buildings.
- Recognised engineering qualifications or relevant certifications.
- Experience with maintenance operations, procurement, and inventory management, preferably using Birchstreet.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to coordinate team members, contractors, and internal stakeholders effectively.
- Organised, solution‑focused, and able to prioritise tasks in a busy, high‑standard environment.
- Commercial awareness with experience managing budgets and energy efficiency initiatives.
- Calm and professional approach, with pride in creating exceptional environments for team members and guests.
Auberge Collection is a portfolio of extraordinary hotels, resorts, residences and private clubs. While each property is unique, all share a crafted approach to luxury and bring the soul of the locale to life through captivating design, exceptional cuisine, innovative wellbeing, and gracious yet unobtrusive service.
Chief Engineer employer: Bowie House
Contact Detail:
Bowie House Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand what makes Cambridge House unique and think about how your skills as a Chief Engineer can contribute to its vision. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the role. Highlight your pre-opening experience and technical knowledge, and don’t forget to showcase your passion for preserving historic properties.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Cambridge House team. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Heritage: When writing your application, let us know how much you value the history and character of buildings like Cambridge House. Share any experiences you've had with heritage properties or how you’ve maintained their charm in your previous roles.
Be Specific About Your Experience: We want to see your hands-on experience! Highlight specific projects where you’ve overseen engineering operations, especially in luxury settings. Mention any pre-opening experiences that showcase your ability to get things up and running smoothly.
Communicate Clearly: Your application should reflect your excellent communication skills. Use clear and concise language to describe your responsibilities and achievements. Remember, we’re looking for someone who can coordinate effectively with team members and stakeholders.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Cambridge House. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bowie House
✨Know Your Engineering Systems
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of hotel engineering systems, especially those relevant to heritage buildings. Be ready to discuss how you would maintain and operate these systems while preserving the character of Cambridge House.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Chief Engineer, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, particularly in high-pressure environments. Highlight your communication skills and how you support your team members.
✨Understand the Pre-Opening Process
Familiarise yourself with the pre-opening commissioning activities. Be prepared to discuss your experience in ensuring that all systems are operational before opening day, and how you would coordinate with various stakeholders during this critical phase.
✨Emphasise Safety and Compliance
Safety is paramount in any engineering role, especially in a luxury hotel. Be ready to talk about your approach to maintaining safety standards and compliance with health regulations. Share specific instances where you've successfully managed safety protocols.