Director of Facilities Operations

$103,860 - $110,000/Yr

Whitman College - Walla Walla, WA

Full-time - Mid Level

Walla Walla, WA

251-500 employees

Educational Services

About the position

The Director of Facilities Operations (DFO) at Whitman College is a pivotal role responsible for overseeing the daily operations of custodial, grounds, and building maintenance activities across various facilities, including on-campus and off-campus properties, athletic facilities, and the stadium. Reporting to the AVP of Facilities Services, the DFO plays a crucial role in ensuring that the college's facilities are well-maintained, safe, and accessible for all students, faculty, and staff. This position involves not only managing the operational aspects but also participating in the development and administration of policies and procedures that support the overall mission of Facilities Services. The DFO will supervise a diverse team of managers and staff, ensuring that all maintenance and operational tasks are executed efficiently and effectively. This includes hiring, training, evaluating, and, if necessary, disciplining staff. The DFO will also be responsible for developing and implementing preventative maintenance programs, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations and codes. The role requires a proactive approach to troubleshooting after-hour issues related to facilities operations, such as HVAC malfunctions, electrical outages, and other emergencies. In addition to these responsibilities, the DFO will collect and analyze data related to facility operations, including utility costs, and will participate in various committees and meetings to communicate information about services and programs. The DFO will also serve as a liaison between the college and external agencies, ensuring that all facilities meet the necessary standards and regulations. This position requires a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as a dedication to sustainability in facilities management.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of custodial, grounds, and building maintenance activities.
• Supervise managers for departments in maintenance, grounds, custodial, and project management.
• Develop, recommend, and administer policies and procedures for facilities operations.
• Administer procurement and fiscal management activities associated with building operations.
• Troubleshoot and respond to after-hour issues regarding facilities operations.
• Monitor safety and accessibility of college facilities and support code compliance issues.
• Update and maintain a list of college facilities equipment and their lifecycle costs.
• Oversee the work of external contractors to ensure compliance with agreements.
• Participate in the development and administration of the facilities maintenance budget.
• Collect and analyze complex data related to facility operations and utility costs.
• Serve as a liaison with other departments and external agencies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Administration or a related building construction field.
• Six years' progressively responsible, professional custodial, grounds, or maintenance experience.
• Knowledge of principles and practices in supervising, grounds and custodial management, contract management, budgeting, and project management.
• Ability to read and interpret construction plans and technical documents.
• Experience managing complex, multi-discipline projects.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's Degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Administration or a related field.
• Applicable Board Certification (e.g., CEFP, CFM, LEED AP).
• Facilities supervisory and management experience in Higher Education.

Benefits

• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurances.
• Basic life, accidental death and dismemberment, and long-term disability insurances.
• 403(b) Defined Contribution Retirement Plan with a 10% matching contribution after eligibility requirements are met.
• 20 accrued vacation days, 12 accrued sick days, 13 paid holidays.
• Tuition Remission for dependent children.
• Employee tuition waiver for one Whitman course per semester.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Relocation benefits for eligible employees.