Facility Manager

The Facilities Manager is responsible for ensuring the safe, clean, and efficient operation of school buildings and grounds. This includes overseeing maintenance, repairs, safety compliance, and managing staff and resources to create an environment conducive to learning. This role involves managing a team of maintenance staff, coordinating repairs and upgrades, overseeing facility budgets, and ensuring a high level of cleanliness, security, and efficiency in all aspects of the facilities management.

Key Responsibilities

1. Facility Maintenance: Oversee and manage the routine maintenance and repair of school buildings, classrooms, restrooms, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical, and other essential infrastructure.
2. Health and Safety Compliance: Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal health and safety regulations, including fire safety codes, emergency evacuation plans, and environmental health standards.
3. Staff Supervision: Supervise and coordinate the work of facilities maintenance staff, custodial workers, groundskeepers, and security personnel, ensuring tasks are performed efficiently and to a high standard.
4. Vendor Management: Manage relationships with external contractors and service providers for specialized tasks such as cleaning, security, and repairs. Monitor contract performance and ensure services meet agreed standards.
5. Budget Management: Develop and manage the school’s facilities budget, including tracking expenses for maintenance, repairs, supplies, and capital projects. Ensure efficient use of resources.
6. Space Planning: Coordinate the setup and organization of classrooms, offices, and common areas. Assist with organizing school events, room setups, and relocations as needed.
7. Building Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of school buildings and grounds to identify maintenance needs, safety hazards, or areas for improvement. Implement preventive maintenance programs to reduce costly repairs.
8. Emergency Response: Respond promptly to emergencies such as water leaks, power outages, fire alarms, or security breaches. Ensure emergency protocols are in place and communicated to staff and students.
9. Sustainability Initiatives: Implement and promote sustainability practices, such as energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction programs, and water conservation strategies.
10. Security and Access Control: Ensure proper functioning of security systems, including cameras, alarms, and access controls. Oversee the security staff to ensure a safe environment for students, staff, and visitors.
11. Equipment and Inventory Management: Maintain an inventory of school facilities supplies and equipment. Ensure that all necessary tools, cleaning materials, and safety equipment are available and in good working condition.
12. Communication: Liaise with school administrators, teachers, and staff to understand facility needs and address concerns. Communicate any disruptions or scheduled maintenance in advance to minimize disruption to school activities.
13. Event Support: Assist in setting up and maintaining facilities for school events, sports, and extracurricular activities, ensuring that all areas are prepared and safe for use.
14. Any other ad-hoc tasks assigned by the Management.

Ideal Candidate Profile

1. Bachelor’s degree in facilities management, business administration, or a related field (preferred).
2. Previous experience (typically 3+ years) in facilities management or a similar role, ideally in an educational or institutional setting.
3. Strong knowledge of building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, etc.), safety regulations, and maintenance procedures.
4. Experience in managing budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships.
5. Proven ability to manage and lead a team, including custodial and maintenance staff.
6. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders.
7. Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage competing demands in a fast-paced environment.
8. Knowledge of school operations and educational environments is a plus.
9. Certifications in facilities management or safety (e.g., IFMA, OSHA) are a plus.
10. Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends for emergency situations or school events.