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If you’ve Googled “Chief Engineer job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again: a dry list of duties, generic skills, and corporate jargon. The problem? Posts like these don’t actually attract great engineers—they just fill space on a careers page.
Top engineering talent isn’t inspired by bullet points and boilerplate. They want to know why this role matters, what kind of challenges they’ll tackle, and what kind of team they’ll be part of. That’s what makes the difference between an average applicant and a true top-tier candidate.
That’s why, before we dive into a ready-to-use Chief Engineer job description template, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . It shows you exactly why generic posts fail, and how a thoughtful, human approach can transform a job description into your strongest recruiting tool.
In this article, we’ll take those principles and apply them directly to the Chief Engineer role—so you can attract the kind of candidates who don’t just do the job, but help your organization grow.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What A Chief Engineer Actually Does - Their Roles
A Chief Engineer is more than just a technical expert—they’re the architect of your company’s engineering vision. They oversee the design, development, and implementation of complex systems, ensure projects meet quality and safety standards, and guide the engineering team to achieve ambitious goals.
In plain English: they’re the ones turning ideas into reality, solving problems before they become crises, and making sure the team is working efficiently toward the company’s mission. Leadership, strategic thinking, and technical mastery are just as important as hands-on engineering skills.
The Chief Engineer sets the tone for innovation, mentors the team, and acts as the bridge between engineering, operations, and leadership. If your projects are your company’s backbone, the Chief Engineer is the spine holding everything together.
Two Great Chief Engineer Job Description Templates
Version 1: Job Description For Experienced Chief Engineer
Job Title: Chief Engineer — Lead Property Engineering at Harborlight Hotels (Downtown Austin)
💼 Location: Austin, TX (On-site)
🕒 Type: Full-Time
💰 Salary Range: [$95,000 – $120,000] + annual bonus eligibility
🗓️ Schedule: Monday–Friday with rotating on-call (weekends as needed)
A quick word from our hiring manager: (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Who we are
Harborlight Hotels is a Texas-based boutique hotel group with 8 properties across Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas. We’re known for warm service, modern design, and thoughtful guest experiences. The Downtown Austin flagship is entering a systems refresh—modernizing HVAC, BMS, and life-safety while improving energy efficiency and uptime across the property.
What you’ll do (Responsibilities)
- Own the property engineering roadmap: preventive maintenance, corrective work, and capital projects (chillers, boilers, air handlers, elevators).
- Lead and develop a team of 8 engineers/techs; set schedules, coach craftsmanship standards, and enforce safety practices.
- Manage vendors and service contracts; scope work, negotiate, and hold partners to SLAs.
- Maintain compliance with OSHA, NFPA, local AHJs; ensure documentation, permits, and inspections are current.
- Track KPIs in our CMMS (downtime, response times, work order closure rates, guest-impact metrics) and report results weekly.
- Partner with Operations and Front Office to minimize guest impact during maintenance and projects.
- Drive energy management initiatives in collaboration with Finance (utility reduction targets, retrofits, rebates).
What you’ll bring (Requirements)
- 5–7+ years in hotel or facilities engineering leadership (Chief/Director/Engineering Manager).
- Hands-on HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and life-safety proficiency; able to read schematics and plans.
- Experience with BMS (e.g., Johnson, Trane, Honeywell) and a CMMS.
- Certifications: EPA 608 required; CPO and BOILER license preferred.
- Strong people leadership, vendor management, and project execution track record.
Nice to have
- Experience leading multi-property standards or renovations.
- Energy management/retrofit experience; utility incentive know-how.
- Working knowledge of low-voltage, BAS networking, and elevator systems.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision; 401(k) with match; life & disability coverage.
- 15 days PTO + 10 paid holidays + hotel room discounts for family.
- Tool allowance, uniforms, and safety gear provided.
- Annual training stipend; paid certifications (EPA 608, CPO, NICET).
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll lead a flagship property with budget support to modernize core systems.
- Real autonomy: own the roadmap, the team, and the results.
- Visible impact on guest experience and NOI through uptime and energy savings.
- Clear growth path to Regional Director of Engineering as we expand.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application, respond within 7–10 days, conduct a structured interview, and may include a short technical assessment. Finalists complete references and standard background checks.
How to Apply
We use Workscreen to evaluate candidates based on skills, not just résumés. Apply here: [Insert Workscreen link] and complete the brief evaluation. We’ll keep you updated at each step.
Version 2: Job Description For Entry Level Chief Engineer (Willing to Train)
Job Title: Assistant Chief Engineer — Learn & Grow at Harborlight Hotels (Downtown Austin)
💼 Location: Austin, TX (On-site)
🕒 Type: Full-Time
💰 Salary Range: [$62,000 – $78,000] + performance bonus
🗓️ Schedule: Sunday–Thursday; rotating on-call with overtime opportunities
A quick word from our hiring manager: (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Who we are
Harborlight Hotels is a Texas-based boutique hotel group focused on high-touch service and smooth operations. At our Downtown Austin property, we’re investing in people and systems—upgrading HVAC, tightening preventive maintenance, and elevating guest-impact response times. We’re hiring an Assistant Chief Engineer who’s hungry to learn, lead, and grow into a Chief role.
What you’ll do (Responsibilities)
- Support the Chief Engineer with daily PMs, work orders, and vendor coordination.
- Troubleshoot and perform hands-on repairs (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, paint).
- Keep logs, checklists, PM calendars, and parts inventory accurate in the CMMS.
- Escort and oversee contractors; ensure safety, cleanliness, and guest sensitivity.
- Learn project scoping, budgeting, and code compliance; step up to lead small projects.
- Participate in energy-saving initiatives and property safety drills.
What you’ll bring (Requirements)
- 1–3 years in maintenance/engineering (hotel, multifamily, healthcare, or commercial).
- Solid mechanical aptitude; comfortable with tools and safe work practices.
- Ability to lift 50+ lbs, climb ladders, and work in mechanical spaces.
- Basic HVAC/electrical troubleshooting; willing to learn advanced systems.
- Strong communication, reliability, and guest-first mindset.
Nice to have
- Trade school certificate or apprenticeship experience.
- Familiarity with BMS and a CMMS.
- EPA 608 and/or CPO (or willingness to earn within 6 months—paid by us).
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision; 401(k) with match; life & disability coverage.
- 12 days PTO + 8 paid holidays + hotel family & friends discounts.
- Paid uniforms, tools stipend, and boot reimbursement.
- Paid training & certifications (EPA 608, CPO, safety, OEM courses).
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Clear 12–24 month growth path to Chief Engineer with mentorship.
- Hands-on learning on modern systems (BMS, energy projects, capital upgrades).
- Supportive team culture that rewards initiative and craftsmanship.
- Real impact—your work directly improves guest experience and uptime.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application, respond within 7–10 days, run a practical skills screen, and schedule an on-site walkthrough. Finalists complete references and standard background checks.
How to Apply
We hire through Workscreen to assess real skills fairly. Apply here: [Insert Workscreen link], complete the short evaluation, and we’ll follow up quickly.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Breakdown of Why These Chief Engineer Job Posts Work
Both versions of the Harborlight Hotels job description follow the “new way” framework from the master guide. Here’s why they’re effective:
1. Clear, Specific Job Titles
- Instead of vague titles like “Chief Engineer” or “Engineering Manager,” these posts are precise:
- Chief Engineer — Lead Property Engineering at Harborlight Hotels (Downtown Austin)
- Assistant Chief Engineer — Learn & Grow at Harborlight Hotels (Downtown Austin)
- Chief Engineer — Lead Property Engineering at Harborlight Hotels (Downtown Austin)
- Candidates immediately know what the role is, where it’s located, and why it matters. This filters in the right talent and prevents wasted applications.
2. Human Introductions with Context
- Each description includes a video message from the hiring manager, adding authenticity and trust.
- The “Who we are” section avoids generic fluff—it tells a story about Harborlight Hotels, its properties, and its investment in people and systems. This paints a picture of the company culture and vision.
3. Transparent Salary & Benefits
- Salary ranges are provided upfront, which builds trust and attracts serious applicants.
- Benefits are listed separately and clearly—medical, PTO, retirement, discounts, training, and allowances. This signals transparency and respect for the candidate’s time.
4. Responsibilities with Purpose
- Duties are written as outcomes with impact, not just task lists.
- For example, “Drive energy management initiatives” is more compelling than “Check utility bills.”
- “Supportive culture that rewards initiative” highlights growth, not just day-to-day chores.
- For example, “Drive energy management initiatives” is more compelling than “Check utility bills.”
5. Respectful, Candidate-Friendly Hiring Process
- Both versions explain what applicants can expect (review timelines, interviews, technical screens, background checks).
- Candidates won’t feel like they’re sending résumés into a black hole—this sets Harborlight apart immediately.
6. Why the Role Is a Great Fit
- Instead of just saying “competitive pay,” the posts show why the opportunity matters: autonomy, impact, mentorship, growth path, and visibility.
- This makes the job post a sales pitch for the role—which is exactly what top candidates are looking for.
7. Use of Workscreen for Applications
- Both descriptions highlight Workscreen as the application tool, reinforcing that the company values fair, skills-based hiring instead of relying solely on résumés.
- This makes the company look modern, efficient, and respectful of candidates’ time.
👉 These elements combined transform a job post from boring paperwork into a recruiting magnet—attracting mission-driven, motivated candidates who care about impact, culture, and growth.
Example of a Bad Chief Engineer Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Chief Engineer
Company: Harborlight Hotels
Location: Austin, TX
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
Harborlight Hotels is seeking to hire a Chief Engineer to oversee engineering operations. The role requires planning, coordinating, and supervising maintenance activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise the engineering team.
- Ensure compliance with safety standards.
- Maintain mechanical and electrical systems.
- Oversee daily maintenance tasks.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field.
- 5–7 years of experience in hotel or property engineering.
- Knowledge of HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems.
- Strong communication skills.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their résumé and cover letter to hr@harborlighthotels.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic Job Title
- Just “Chief Engineer.” No mention of location, scope, or unique opportunity. It blends in with every other listing.
- Just “Chief Engineer.” No mention of location, scope, or unique opportunity. It blends in with every other listing.
- Bland Introduction
- “Seeking to hire a Chief Engineer to oversee operations” says nothing about Harborlight Hotels, the property, or the impact of the role. It doesn’t answer why this job matters.
- “Seeking to hire a Chief Engineer to oversee operations” says nothing about Harborlight Hotels, the property, or the impact of the role. It doesn’t answer why this job matters.
- No Personality or Culture
- Nowhere does it mention Harborlight’s values, culture, or what it’s like to work there. A candidate reading this has zero emotional connection.
- Nowhere does it mention Harborlight’s values, culture, or what it’s like to work there. A candidate reading this has zero emotional connection.
- No Salary or Benefits
- Today’s candidates expect transparency. Omitting pay and perks suggests the company isn’t competitive or upfront.
- Today’s candidates expect transparency. Omitting pay and perks suggests the company isn’t competitive or upfront.
- Responsibilities Are Too Vague
- Phrases like “ensure compliance” and “oversee daily maintenance” could apply to any property. There’s no context, detail, or sense of purpose.
- Phrases like “ensure compliance” and “oversee daily maintenance” could apply to any property. There’s no context, detail, or sense of purpose.
- Dismissive Hiring Process
- “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels cold and outdated. It signals to candidates that their effort may not even be acknowledged.
- “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels cold and outdated. It signals to candidates that their effort may not even be acknowledged.
- Cold Call to Action
- Just “send résumé and cover letter” to a generic email. There’s no effort to sell the role or show respect for applicants’ time.
- Just “send résumé and cover letter” to a generic email. There’s no effort to sell the role or show respect for applicants’ time.
👉 This is exactly the kind of uninspiring, checkbox-style job description that top engineering talent scrolls right past. It lacks clarity, warmth, transparency, and a sense of opportunity.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Chief Engineer Job Post Stand Out
If you want your job description to rise above the noise and attract serious candidates, add these advanced details:
1. Add an IMPORTANT NOTICE for Security & Trust
Fraudulent job postings are everywhere. Adding a short security statement builds confidence in applicants.
Example:
“We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.”
2. Highlight Leave Days or Flex Time
Compensation isn’t just salary—time off matters too. Candidates want to know how much rest and flexibility they’ll have.
Example:
“Enjoy up to 20 PTO days annually, plus 10 paid holidays and flex scheduling options to recharge and come back stronger.”
3. Mention Training & Growth Opportunities
Great engineers are growth-oriented. Showing how you invest in their future attracts ambitious talent.
Example:
“We invest in our people. From paid certifications (EPA 608, CPO, NICET) to management training and mentorship, we’ll help you level up your career.”
4. Include a Short Video (Hiring Manager or CEO)
A Loom or YouTube link from leadership gives your job post a human face. Candidates want to know the people behind the company.
Example:
“Watch a 90-second message from our Engineering Director about why this role matters.”
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Add Employee Voices or Reviews
Real voices beat corporate statements. Share a quote from a current engineer or link to Glassdoor reviews.
Example:
“Here’s what one of our Assistant Engineers said: ‘I joined Harborlight Hotels because of the training, but I’ve stayed because of the team. We’re treated like partners, not just employees.’”
👉 These little touches go a long way. They make your Chief Engineer job post feel personal, transparent, and trustworthy—three things top candidates value the most.
Should You Use AI to Write a Chief Engineer Job Description?
Lately, it seems like everyone is using AI to churn out job descriptions in seconds—even popular ATS platforms now offer one-click AI templates. But here’s the truth: using AI the wrong way can actually hurt your hiring.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
- Generic, lifeless results — AI outputs without context sound bland and templated.
- Wrong candidates apply — vague posts attract people skimming for any job, not those aligned with your company.
- Bad first impression — your job post is often the first thing a candidate sees. If it looks cookie-cutter, it reflects poorly on your brand.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI
AI is a great assistant, not a replacement. The key is giving it the right raw material:
- What your company actually does
- Why the role matters
- Your culture and values
- The kind of candidate you want to attract
- Salary, perks, and growth opportunities
Then, prompt AI like this:
“Help me write a Chief Engineer job post for Harborlight Hotels in Austin, TX. We’re hiring an experienced leader to oversee property engineering, manage a team of 8, and modernize our systems. Our culture is collaborative, detail-driven, and growth-minded. We offer $95,000–$120,000, paid certifications, and a clear growth path. Here are notes I’ve drafted [paste notes]. Please polish this into a job post similar in tone to this example [paste a good post].”
AI can then help you refine your tone, smooth structure, and organize your content—while keeping the authenticity of your brand.
👉 Bottom line: don’t let AI write your job post for you—let it polish your work. That way, your job description stays human, authentic, and persuasive.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use
✅ Option 1: Conversational / Culture-First Style
Intro (copy-paste line):
Job Title: Chief Engineer – Lead Property Engineering at [Company Name]💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/On-site] (HQ: [City, State])🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
A quick word from our hiring manager (video): (Insert Loom/YouTube link)
Who we are
[Company Name] designs and operates [brief what you do—e.g., boutique hospitality properties / mission-critical facilities / sustainable commercial buildings]. We care about uptime, guest/tenant comfort, and smart, efficient systems. We’re investing in people and modernizing core infrastructure across our portfolio.
About the role
This isn’t a “keep the lights on” job. As Chief Engineer, you’ll lead the engineering roadmap, mentor techs, manage vendor partners, and deliver safe, reliable, and energy-efficient operations. Your work directly shapes customer experience and operating margins.
What you’ll do (Responsibilities)
- Lead the engineering team; set standards for safety, craftsmanship, and response times.
- Own preventive maintenance and capital projects (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, life-safety).
- Manage BMS/CMMS, contractors, budgets, permits, and compliance.
- Track KPIs (uptime, closures, energy use) and report progress to leadership.
- Partner with Operations to minimize impact during maintenance and upgrades.
What you’ll bring (Requirements)
- 5–7+ years in facilities/property/hospitality engineering leadership.
- Strong HVAC/electrical/plumbing fundamentals; read plans/schematics.
- Experience with BMS and a CMMS. Certifications: EPA 608 required; CPO/Boiler a plus.
- Clear communicator, coach, and project driver.
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, vision; 401(k) with match; life & disability coverage.
- PTO + paid holidays; tool/boot stipend; uniforms & PPE provided.
- Paid training & certifications; annual learning stipend.
- [Any unique perk—e.g., product/room discounts, commuter benefits.]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Visible impact on reliability, comfort, and energy savings.
- Autonomy to modernize systems and elevate standards.
- Clear path to multi-site leadership as we grow.
How to Apply
We use Workscreen to assess real skills, not just résumés. Apply here: [Insert Workscreen link] and complete the short evaluation. We respond to every application.
✅ Option 2: Structured (“Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements”)
Intro (copy-paste line):
Job Title: Chief Engineer – Lead Property Engineering at [Company Name]💼 Location: [Remote/Hybrid/On-site] (HQ: [City, State])🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]💰 Salary Range: [${X},000 – ${Y},000]/year
Job Brief
[Company Name] is hiring a Chief Engineer to lead property engineering across [site/portfolio]. You’ll manage a team, maintain building systems, drive preventive maintenance, and ensure safety, compliance, and operational excellence.
Responsibilities
- Oversee maintenance of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, elevators, and life-safety systems.
- Build and run PM programs; plan and execute capital projects.
- Manage vendor contracts, budgets, inspections, permits, and documentation.
- Utilize BMS/CMMS to track work orders, parts, and KPIs; report weekly.
- Lead and develop technicians; schedule, train, and uphold safety procedures.
Requirements
- 5–7+ years in facilities/property/hospitality engineering leadership.
- Technical proficiency in core building systems; read drawings/schematics.
- Experience with BMS and CMMS tools. Certifications: EPA 608 required; CPO/Boiler preferred.
- Strong leadership, vendor management, and communication skills.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision; 401(k) with match.
- PTO + paid holidays; uniforms/PPE; tool/boot stipend.
- Paid certifications and professional development.
How to Apply
Apply via Workscreen here: [Insert Workscreen link]. Every application is reviewed; we share updates at each step.
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Crafting a strong job description is only the first step. Once your Chief Engineer job post goes live, you’ll need a way to quickly identify the best candidates without drowning in résumés. That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With Workscreen, you can:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Easily administer one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applications
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
Write a job description that inspires, then let Workscreen handle the heavy lifting.
FAQ
A strong Chief Engineer combines technical mastery (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, safety compliance) with leadership and communication skills. Look for candidates who can manage teams, handle vendor negotiations, think strategically about long-term system reliability, and adapt to new technologies such as building automation systems. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are also essential.
Compensation varies by industry and location, but in the U.S., Chief Engineers typically earn between $85,000 and $125,000 per year. In high-demand sectors (hospitality, data centers, healthcare facilities, or energy-intensive operations), salaries can reach $140,000+ with bonuses and overtime. Entry-level or assistant-level Chief Engineers may start closer to $65,000–$75,000.
An Engineering Manager often focuses on design, development, or R&D within a product-driven company. A Chief Engineer, by contrast, is hands-on with physical systems, maintenance, and property or facility operations. In short, Chief Engineers are operations-focused, while Engineering Managers are project or product-focused.
While requirements vary, common certifications include:
- EPA 608 (for HVAC handling)
- CPO (Certified Pool Operator) for hospitality/amenity facilities
- Boiler Operator license where applicable
- NICET certifications in fire/life safety
- OSHA safety training courses
These credentials boost credibility and demonstrate technical compliance knowledge.
