Cluster Director Engineering Hilton Hotels

Position Overview

The Cluster Director Engineering will lead the engineering operations across both Waldorf Astoria Kuwait and Hilton Resorts Kuwait. This role is responsible for ensuring safety, compliance, operational efficiency, sustainability, and preventive maintenance at the highest brand standards. The leader will oversee pre-opening preparations (if applicable), strategic planning, energy management, and the development of a strong engineering team across both properties.

Position Summary:

Support the Hotel Management Team and Regional Safety & Security Manager in respect of occupational health & safety, food safety, fire safety, security, crisis management and disability compliance. The role involves the provision of advice and support for the protection of the company s owned and managed assets and to ensure compliance with local regulatory requirements and company policies related to all safety disciplines. The role requires a risk-based approach in terms of allocation of resources whether this be through specialist training, general operational support, auditing, accident investigation and involvement with local enforcement officials on statutory routine inspections.

Key Responsibilities

As Cluster Director Engineering, you are responsible for the effective management of all engineering and maintenance operations within the hotel, including energy conservation. You are also responsible for the development of the Engineering Team and staying abreast of compliance regulations and procedures in the field of Engineering, as required for hotel standards. Specifically, a Cluster Director Engineering will perform the following tasks to the highest standards:

• Lead the Engineering Team in the day-to-day engineering and maintenance operations of the hotel, including service standards, equipment schedules, and work schedules

• Communicate with Housekeeping to coordinate and prioritize maintenance activities for Guest rooms and public areas.

• Develop systems and procedures to ensure the health and safety of Guests and Team Members, as well as the proper conditions for plants, machinery, and property.

• Communicate with Government agencies to ensure full compliance with statutory regulations.

• Prepare Capital and Repairs and Maintenance budgets for Engineering.

• Perform daily checks around the hotel.

• Conduct lift emergency release procedures as required.

• Diagnose, maintain, and repair mechanical equipment within the hotel.

• Ensure good relationships are built with internal and external customers.

• Maintenance of all hotel fixtures and fittings to ensure they are in safe condition and take action when any unsafe situations arise.

• Develop, implement, and direct all emergency programs.

• Develop, implement and manage energy conservation programs for the property to minimize expenses.

• Coordinate renovation bidding, define the cost and scope of the project, and oversee the general contractor and subcontractors to ensure quality work is performed cost effectively.

• Perform special projects and other responsibilities as assigned.

• Identify and introduce environmentally friendly systems and equipment.

• Monitor Key Performance Indicators for the Engineering Department and take corrective action, as required, to improve equipment inventory, quality audit, productivity, and other objectives.

• Manage all Team Member related activities, including recruitment, performance management, training, career planning, disciplinary matters, and team motivation

Key Responsibilities for Hotel Pre-Opening Leaders

• Project Management: Oversee timelines, budgets, and resources; manage construction, procurement, and vendor coordination; ensure compliance with deadlines and regulations.

• Strategic Planning: Develop and execute pre-opening plans; set priorities, anticipate challenges, and establish operational workflows.

• Operational Readiness: Ensure all departments (front office, housekeeping, F&B, engineering) are prepared; coordinate training and brand standards implementation.

• Team Leadership: Recruit, onboard, and train staff; foster collaboration and maintain team focus under pressure.

• Financial Management: Manage pre-opening budgets; monitor forecasts; negotiate vendor contracts and control costs.

• Brand Standards: Ensure consistency in design, service, and operations aligned with brand guidelines.

• Problem-Solving: Address unexpected issues quickly; manage risks and maintain safety compliance.

• Attention to Detail: Oversee final construction, design, and furnishing; ensure operational processes meet quality standards.

• Communication: Maintain transparent updates with owners, investors, and stakeholders; represent the project in pre-opening events.

• Adaptability: Adjust plans as needed; stay resilient under fast-paced, high-pressure conditions.

• Customer Focus: Ensure guest experience remains the top priority from day one.

Success candidates can also provide relevant work experience in the following Core Competencies

• Strategic Planning
• Project & Construction Management
• Budgeting & Forecasting
• Regulatory Compliance
• Team Leadership & Training
• Energy Efficiency & Conservation
• Stakeholder Management
• Crisis & Emergency Management

• Brand Standard Implementation