Senior Director of Maintenance and Operations

 

Job Summary

Reporting to the Senior Associate Vice President for Facilities Development & Operations (FD&O), the Senior Director of Maintenance & Operations provides strategic leadership, administrative direction, and management oversight for all building and grounds maintenance, operations, and related services across San José State University’s 167-acre, multisite campus. This includes responsibility for the maintenance of more than six million gross square feet of facilities and infrastructure, as well as the management of custodial, grounds, fleet, and moving services units comprising approximately 235 staff members and an annual operating budget of $20 million.

The Senior Director ensures the efficient operation, safety, and sustainability of campus facilities and utility systems through effective planning, resource allocation, and the use of a comprehensive computerized maintenance management system. The role also leads the development and execution of deferred maintenance and capital renewal programs, directs compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and drives initiatives that promote energy efficiency, sustainability, and customer service excellence.

As a key member of the FD&O leadership team, the Senior Director collaborates across departments and with campus partners to align operations with University priorities, develop and implement strategic initiatives, and ensure business continuity and emergency response preparedness. The incumbent provides vision and mentorship to unit managers, fosters a culture of accountability and inclusivity, and models exemplary service and professionalism in support of the University’s mission and values.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and oversight for all maintenance and operational services including building trades, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, custodial, grounds, automotive, recycling, and moving services
• Oversee and ensure full utilization of the computerized maintenance management system to plan, schedule, track, and manage preventive and corrective maintenance programs
• Direct the development and implementation of deferred maintenance and capital renewal plans using data-driven strategies that optimize resources and minimize lifecycle costs
• Collaborate with Planning, Design & Construction on capital investment planning and ensure compliance with all design, permitting, and code requirements
• Develop and manage operating budgets, service level plans, and performance metrics to ensure effective resource utilization and accountability
• Provide strategic leadership in sustainability, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and green operational practices
• Lead personnel management for over 200 staff members including recruitment, evaluation, development, labor relations, and team engagement
• Serve as a key liaison with campus stakeholders to promote customer service excellence, responsiveness, and clear communication
• Ensure departmental compliance with applicable local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations
• Direct emergency preparedness, response, and business continuity planning within Maintenance & Operations

 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Comprehensive knowledge of building systems, utilities, infrastructure, and facilities operations management
• Strong knowledge of maintenance project planning, capital renewal, and deferred maintenance strategies
• Demonstrated expertise in energy management, sustainability initiatives, and operational efficiency improvements
• Proven experience in budget development, financial management, and resource planning for large-scale operations
• Deep understanding of public contracting laws and procurement processes, including proposal evaluation and negotiation
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate, mentor, and develop diverse teams
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills to manage complex operational challenges
• Ability to collaborate effectively across organizational units, fostering teamwork and continuous improvement
• Competence in developing and maintaining customer-focused service models within a higher education environment

 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Facilities management, construction management, business or a related field OR which may be obtained through equivalent experience such as might be obtained through ten years of supervisory experience
• Ten years of supervisory experience and five years of senior leadership experience within a multi-faceted facilities maintenance organization