Senior Director of Operations

University of Massachusetts - Amherst, MA

Full-time - Senior

Amherst, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Senior Director of Operations for the College of Natural Sciences (CNS) at UMass Amherst is responsible for overseeing daily functions related to project management and facility operations across various facilities within the college. This role involves coordinating resources and services to support a complex research, teaching, and outreach operation, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of approximately 2.7 million square feet of laboratory, office, and classroom spaces. The Senior Director collaborates closely with various university departments to execute projects and manage facility operations effectively.

Responsibilities

• Provide planning, project management, leadership, and support for CNS Dean's Office priority projects and initiatives.
• Coordinate work done by Physical Plant, Design & Construction Management, and outside contractors on behalf of CNS.
• Prepare and submit recommendations for maintenance and facility operations, negotiating costs and overseeing expenditures.
• Represent the interests of the College's customer base in addressing operational needs and developing partnerships with the Physical Plant.
• Serve as primary CNS contact with Environmental Health and Safety (EH&S) and respond to emergencies.
• Supervise the college's operations, including direct supervision of 3-5 employees.
• Maintain knowledge of architecture, engineering, and design principles applicable to specialized research facilities.
• Purchase and oversee maintenance and repair of equipment for CNS.
• Identify and mitigate issues related to maintenance and construction activities affecting sensitive research facilities.
• Manage and prepare presentations, memos, proposals, and various communications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with a minimum of five years of work experience in building maintenance or construction projects, or an Associate's degree with seven years of experience.
• Valid driver's license.
• Staff supervisory experience.
• Demonstrated ability to independently set priorities and manage multiple projects.
• Project management expertise with a proven record of performance-driven results.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to coordinate and comprehend the work of staff, consultants, and contractors.
• Ability to utilize independent judgment and manage sensitive information.
• Knowledge of research and teaching facilities and utilization requirements.
• Proven working knowledge of laboratory safety and security issues, building codes, and construction methods.

Nice-to-haves

• Construction Supervisor's License.
• Experience in laboratory planning, design, and construction.
• Experience in a higher education environment.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement savings plan (401k)
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO)
• Professional development opportunities