Corporate Engineer

The Corporate Engineer leads engineering planning, capital execution, and asset integrity across a significant portion of RLJ’s hotel portfolio (35+ properties). Sitting within Design & Construction, this role partners with Asset Management and property teams to drive consistent engineering performance, execute complex projects, and protect long-term asset value.

This is a senior, hands‑on role for a seasoned operator who is comfortable working across a multi‑property platform.

• Support and guide third‑party management, property‑level, Regional, and Chief Engineers
• Ensure consistent engineering standards and operating practices are being implemented by third‑party management teams
• Conduct property inspections, audits, and condition assessments
• Provide expertise on complex building systems

• Oversee MEP, infrastructure, and disaster remediation projects from planning through execution
• Lead RFPs, budgeting, bid‑leveling, contract negotiation, and project delivery
• Ensure projects are completed on time, on budget, and aligned with asset strategy

• Strengthen preventive and predictive maintenance programs
• Improve asset reliability and reduce reactive repairs
• Standardize vendor performance and service delivery

• Identify opportunities to reduce utility costs and improve efficiency
• Leverage building automation systems and CMMS tools
• Support sustainability initiatives

• Ensure compliance with codes, regulations, and brand standards
• Oversee fire/life‑safety systems and risk mitigation
• Support audits, inspections, and regulatory reviews

• Monitor R&M and Cap Ex spend
• Support capital planning and multi‑year forecasting
• Participate in acquisition and disposition due diligence, including site assessments and capital review

• Collaborate with peer Corporate Engineers to implement best practices across portfolio and leverage buying power
• Utilize Assistant Project Management resources to improve project execution efficiency
• Lead third‑party vendors and hold them accountable for results

• Strong technical expertise across HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and building systems
• Proven ability to manage complex projects across multiple assets and disciplines
• Financial acumen across Cap Ex, R&M, and ROI analysis
• Experience managing vendors, contracts, and construction processes
• Strong problem‑solving, organization, and communication skills
• Proficiency with MS Office; experience with project management and CMMS tools preferred
• Familiarity with Trimble and Yardi or similar systems a plus
• Ability to travel 50–60%

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management, Facilities, or related field preferred
• Relevant certifications (e.g., PE, CFM) a plus
• 10+ years of experience in hotel engineering or facilities leadership
• Multi‑property or portfolio‑level experience required
• Experience leading complex capital projects in an operating environment
• Strong background in life‑safety and regulatory compliance
• REIT, ownership, or asset management experience preferred

• Position is based in Bethesda, MD or Northeast Region
• Regular travel to portfolio properties
• On‑site in the office four days a week, with one designated remote workday.

• Base Salary Range: $165,000 – $185,000
• Annual Performance Bonus
• Eligible for equity participation, subject to plan terms

Actual compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, and geographic location.

RLJ Lodging Trust is an equal‑opportunity employer. We encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position. We are looking for someone with relevant skills and experience, not a checklist that exactly matches the job description. We want to help you grow and in return, you help us grow into a stronger, more inclusive organization.

We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

EOE

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, Roth)
• Life Insurance
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Transportation Benefits
• Training & Development
• Free Food & Snacks
• Discounted Health Club Membership
• Franchisor Hotel Discounts