Senior Director, Physical Plant Maintenance (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Systems)

Department:

Physical Plant Operations

Location:

Belknap Campus

Time Type:

Full time

Worker Type:

Regular

Job Req ID:

R107679

Minimum Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in a related field and eight (8) years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Grade 12 (Salaried)

Position Description:

The position of Senior Director, Physical Plant Maintenance oversee and manage the Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems, including HVAC, plumbing, steam plant operations, and building automation controls, as well as electrical services, life safety systems, and elevator operations across the Belknap and Shelby campuses. Ensure the reliability, efficiency, and compliance of all critical infrastructure while leading a team responsible for maintenance, upgrades, and emergency response. This role requires a proactive, hands-on leader with a strong technical background in MEP systems, energy management, and facilities infrastructure, capable of ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient operations across campus.

This position is a required personnel position and will require the employee’s physical presence at the workplace.  Additionally, the employee is required to report to (or remain at) work to assist with University emergencies during closures.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The MEP Facilities Director is responsible for ensuring the optimal, efficient, and safe operation of all Physical Plant services across campus, including mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP) systems, life safety systems, and critical infrastructure. This role provides strategic leadership in staff management, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis, while overseeing all mechanical and electrical service programs. The Senior Director develops and implements best business practices, recommends equipment replacement and capital projects, and drives technical enhancements to improve building operations. Additionally, the role identifies equipment in need of replacement or refurbishment, ensuring continued safe and reliable facility operations.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Operations Management:

• Direct skilled trades and technical staff responsible for MEP systems, ensuring timely execution of maintenance, repairs, and capital improvements.

• Oversee the installation, operation, and maintenance of mechanical and electrical systems, coordinating efforts with new construction and renovation projects.

• Ensure all building systems operate efficiently, meeting safety, compliance, and performance standards.

Project & Budget Management:

• Develop and manage budgets related to MEP projects and infrastructure improvements.

• Write job specifications, obtain vendor quotes, and oversee procurement processes for MEP-related projects.

• Provide cost estimates and financial planning for proposed projects, ensuring fiscal responsibility and return on investment.

Steam, Chilled Water & Utility Systems Oversight:

• Direct operations of the main Steam/Chilled Water Plant and Utility Tunnel System, ensuring continuous, safe, and efficient functionality.

• Implement training programs, safety protocols, and record-keeping systems to maintain operational excellence.

• Manage the chemical treatment contract and water treatment programs for boilers, chillers, cooling towers, and other critical infrastructure.

Preventative Maintenance & Compliance:

• Lead and manage the preventative maintenance program, ensuring inspection, testing, and upkeep of all systems per state and federal regulations.

• Conduct building inspections, issue work orders, and oversee repairs and system upgrades.

• Maintain compliance with OSHA, EPA, NFPA, and other regulatory agencies, ensuring all operational records and reports are up to date.

Team Leadership & Training:

• Train, mentor, and supervise supporting supervisors and technical staff, fostering a culture of safety, professionalism, and continuous improvement.

• Attend project meetings, collaborate with stakeholders, and provide expert input on facilities planning and capital improvements.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior experience working in a large higher education institution.

• Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering.

• Knowledge of APPA Service Levels

Holding one or more of the following certifications or licenses:

• Kentucky Master License in Electrical, HVAC, or Plumbing

• Kentucky State Boiler Inspecto