Director of Engineering

 CHIEF ENGINEER - FREEHAND NEW YORK
We need an exceptional and passionate Chief Engineer to oversee all installation, repair and upkeep operations of the company’s facilities. You will be the one to ensure that your colleagues have the best physical resources available to complete their duties according to budget. Help us to create an unforgettable experience. Be a part of Europe’s fastest moving, ground breaking, lifestyle & hospitality brand.

WHO ARE WE
Freehand is on a journey. Appropriate, given that we're a shared accommodation brand. Freehand swung through the US coolest cities on its way to dominating the world. It burst onto the scene in the Americas with the launch of our properties in the country’s biggest markets (NYC, LA, Miami and Chicago) with the acquisition of Freehand Hotels. Created for a new generation of urban travelers, Freehand combines the social culture of a hotel with innovative design by Roman and Williams, comfort and quality food and beverage at an affordable price.

No biggie. Fast Company named us one of the top 50 most innovative global companies. We, of course, agree. And now this top 50 most innovative global company (did we mention that?) wants a pretty awesome Chief Engineer.

Our spaces are safe and seriously social, in the proudest part of the beating heart of the cities we love. Cultural action, creative pulse and an outstanding way to waste some of the finite time the universe has given you - that's what Freehand offers. Holds true for staff and visitors equally, and while chic design is always the backdrop, every Freehand in every destination reflects the unique beat of that city's heart.

ABOUT FREEHAND NEW YORK

Located in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, Freehand New York is housed in the former George Washington Hotel—once home to many storied writers, musicians and creatives. Designed by Roman and Williams and featuring custom-commissioned artwork by Bard College students and alumni throughout, we’re revitalizing the artistic community in a historic NY neighbourhood. Conveniently situated in the Flatiron District, Freehand New York has a vibrancy that starts with the guests in the rooms and public spaces and is complemented by the locals frequenting the George Washington Bar and Broken Shaker rooftop Bar, enjoying the regular events and activations. It’s this energy that sets Freehand apart in the city, and it empowers the team working at the property just as much as it does the guests passing through.

OUR EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

• Birthday holiday in addition to your yearly holiday allocation
• Fertility Treatment Support Leave - up to three days' paid leave in any one year for an employee to undergo fertility treatment
• Employee Bounty Program providing opportunities to earn a compensation for new hire referrals with no cap on number of referrals made 
• Company contribution towards gym membership fees for all eligible employees – look good, feel good, work good
• Ideas Award - Quarterly award to double gross basic salary for 1 month to employee with most valuable suggestion/feedback
• 2 free nights’ accommodation across any of our Generator x Freehand properties globally
• Reduced room rates for staff as well as friends and family members (we operate in several locations across Europe & US so your next holiday is sorted)
• International career opportunities so you can travel the world while working with us (win-win!)
• Social events, celebrations calendar & various employee recognition schemes – we never ever need an excuse to let our hair down!
• Online learning tools to help you develop, learn and grow

LOCAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

• 9 holidays
• Medical + Dental + Vision (subsidized contributions)
• Life & Disability (employer paid)
• Paid sick leave (56 hours per calendar year)
• Paid vacation (80 hours per calendar year)
• Commuter benefits
• Voluntary products: Voluntary Life, Legal Shield/ID Shield, Pet Insurance, Hospital Indemnity, critical illness, Accident Insurance and FSA

SO YOU THINK THIS MIGHT BE YOU?

That's cool. Send us your application in English. If you’ve got questions, get in touch!

Also, check out https://freehandhotels.com/ or our social media pages. Here you may well find the answers to life, the universe and everything, including why there are no penguins at the North Pole. We look forward to hearing from you.

Employment will be based upon personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.

Join Us and help us achieve our Vision!

 NUTS AND BOLTS OF THE JOB

• Leading the engineering and maintenance operations of the property, including the standard of building, machinery, plant, furniture, fixtures and equipment in all areas
• Ensure the safety and security of property and people by coordinating and ensuring the implementation of procedures and regulatory follow-up
• Plan and oversee all repair and installation activities including fire safety installations
• Ensuring the hotel is prepared for regular fire, H&S and building audits
• Keep maintenance logs and report on daily activities
• Manage relationships with contractors and service providers
• Carry out inspections of the facilities to identify and resolve issues
• Have a comprehensive knowledge of, and ensure that you comply with all statutory local legislation and regulation, in particular, H&S, building regulations and Fire Safety
• Monitor, optimize and anticipate your budgets and your maintenance and personnel expenses
• Contribute to the optimization of the results of the property including making rooms available for sale
• Develop and train all employees within your charge in order that they perform to the required standard
• Communicate effectively so that the team understands its goals and is motivated to achieve them
• Strive at all times for 100% customer satisfaction

Naturally this is not intended as an exhaustive list of duties. Other duties as may be reasonably required will form part of this job description.

WHAT’S IN YOUR DNA

• Hands-on attitude, with attention to detail
• To be able to lead and inspire people to be their best
• To be a great communicator, people manager and motivator
• Be eligible to work in the EU to be considered for this role

YOUR ROCK STAR EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience as maintenance manager or similar role
• Solid understanding of technical aspects of plumbing, carpentry, electrical systems etc.
• Working knowledge of facilities machines and equipment
• Experience in planning maintenance operations