We invite you to join the world of luxury hospitality at Fairmont Southampton as our new Shift Building Operator - Kitchen & Refrigeration Equipment. Reporting to the Director, Engineering & Facility Operations, the Shift Building Operator – Kitchen & Refrigeration Equipment is responsible for the safe, efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of the hotel’s commercial kitchen equipment, refrigeration systems, and associated mechanical infrastructure during assigned shifts. This role ensures all kitchen and food service operations run smoothly by proactively monitoring equipment performance, responding to maintenance issues, and maintaining compliance with safety, hygiene, and operational standards.
The successful candidate will troubleshoot and repair kitchen appliances, refrigeration units, and related building systems while supporting overall hotel operations through preventive maintenance, emergency response, and exceptional service to internal teams and guests.
Key Responsibilities
Operations & Maintenance
- Conduct daily inspections and walkthroughs of kitchen, refrigeration, and plant areas.
- Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair commercial kitchen equipment, including ovens, fryers, dishwashers, grills, steamers, and cooking appliances.
- Inspect, maintain, and repair refrigeration systems, including walk-in coolers, freezers, ice machines, and cold storage equipment.
- Perform preventive maintenance on kitchen and refrigeration equipment to minimize downtime and ensure operational efficiency.
- Respond promptly to urgent maintenance requests, equipment breakdowns, and emergency repairs.
- Monitor refrigeration temperatures, pressures, and operational performance to ensure food safety compliance.
- Refer to O&M manuals and technical drawings for troubleshooting, safe operation, and maintenance procedures.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of plant rooms, workshops, and maintenance areas.
Inventory & System Management
- Maintain accurate maintenance records, inspections, and repair logs using the Work Order Management System.
- Order and maintain inventory of replacement parts, tools, and equipment required for kitchen and refrigeration systems.
- Track and report inventory consumption and equipment usage accurately.
- Monitor and operate Building Automation Systems (BAS), where applicable, to optimize equipment performance and energy efficiency.
- Collaborate with Engineering, Kitchen Operations, and external contractors to ensure seamless operations and minimal disruption to service.
Safety & Compliance
- Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, hygiene standards, hotel policies, and operational procedures.
- Respond to fire alarms and after-hours emergency calls in coordination with Security and Engineering teams.
- Maintain awareness and adherence to lockout/tagout, confined space, fall arrest, WHMIS, CPR/first aid, and other required safety procedures.
- Participate in and lead toolbox talks and safety briefings as required.
- Report major equipment failures, hazards, or operational concerns to the Lead Shift Building Operator or Assistant Director promptly.
Guest & Team Support
- Provide exceptional service and technical support to kitchen staff, colleagues, and hotel departments.
- Support operational continuity by ensuring kitchen and refrigeration systems remain functional and efficient at all times.
- Work collaboratively within the Engineering team to maintain hotel standards and operational excellence.
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support the overall maintenance and functionality of the hotel and associated facilities.