Area Manager, FAS Libraries Facilities

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Office of Physical Resources & Planning (OPRP) provides complete and integrated planning and design services, construction management, and building renewal, maintenance and operations management to maintain the physical resources of the FAS campus. To accomplish this mission, OPRP relies on a unique set of IT systems and applications to fulfill its day-to-day business needs.

The Area Manager is responsible for the strategic and day-to-day management of building operations across the FAS and Harvard Library portfolios. This role oversees facility operations, building systems, maintenance, security, compliance, and capital planning for a complex portfolio of academic and research libraries including: Widener, Lamont, Pusey, Houghton, Tozzer, Yenching, Fine Arts/Littauer, Loeb Music, Cabot/Science Center, Statistics/Science Center, Math/Science Center, Carpenter Center, Harvard Film Archive, Audio Preservation (Story St.), Jefferson Lab, 90 Mt. Auburn St., 8 Story St., and the Harvard Depository.

The position ensures reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of facilities while supporting long-term asset preservation, sustainability goals, and programmatic needs.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Facilities Operations & Portfolio Management

• Direct all aspects of facilities operations, including building systems, maintenance, custodial services, security, and support services across ~1M SF of library space.
• Manage a combined operating and capital budget of ~$11M across FAS and Harvard Library locations.
• Ensure delivery of high-quality, consistent building services aligned with institutional standards and user needs.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all facilities-related issues, including emergencies, major repairs, and operational disruptions.
• Identify cost efficiencies and support cost-reduction initiatives without compromising service quality.

Leadership & Staff Oversight

• Lead, supervise, and develop a team of facilities staff, including building managers, administrative staff, security personnel, and third-party contractors.
• Provide performance management, coaching, and operational direction to ensure accountability and service excellence.

Building Systems & Maintenance

• Oversee operation and monitor performance of critical building systems, including complex HVAC, electrical, life safety, and security systems.
• Establish and manage preventive maintenance programs, work order processes, and service level expectations.
• Monitor system performance through CMMS and building automation systems to ensure reliability and efficiency.

Capital Planning & Asset Management

• Develop and implement long-range capital and lifecycle plans for building systems and infrastructure.
• Support planning and execution of renovations and capital projects in coordination with OPRP and Library leadership
• Evaluate deferred maintenance and prioritize investments based on risk, condition, and program needs.

Security & Risk Management

• Oversee comprehensive security program across all library locations.
• Partner with Harvard University Police Department and external agencies on security planning and incident response.
• Lead responses to emergencies, incidents, and business continuity events.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with all applicable codes, regulations, and university polici