Director of Facilities

Watkinson School, an independent day school serving students in grades 6-PG, offering inventive teaching to Hartford and surrounding communities since 1881, seeks a full-time Facilities Director. Applicants must possess enthusiasm for working in a dynamic environment, be a strong team player and possess a passion for overseeing and caring for a busy and vibrant campus with 6 education-centered buildings, 4 homes, 2 sports fields, tennis courts and 40+ acres of land. This role carries responsibilities for managing major vendor partnerships and for managing employee teams that, together, ensure the health, safety and regular operations of Watkinson’s physical plant.

This position provides an ideal opportunity for a savvy facilities expert with demonstrated experience and knowledge of building systems, budgeting and expense management, contracting, campus safety and compliance. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of related work experience, preferably in a school environment or on a site with multiple buildings.

The Facilities Director Will

• Oversee daily operations of the facilities and grounds, including maintenance, preventative maintenance, custodial services, security, and building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, life safety).
• Manage the school’s facilities request system, including assigning maintenance tasks to facilities team members.
• Maintain facilities shared calendars.
• Supervise the Plant Manager, Security Guard, Day Porter, and Night Porter.
• Co-chair the school’s Safety Committee and ensure implementation of safety drills and compliance requirements.
• Manage the involvement of facilities and custodial staff in all school events and activities.
• In collaboration with the CFOO, oversee implementation of facility rentals.
• Supervise the evening housekeeping vendor.
• Manage and maintain relationships with Hartford’s police and fire departments and with neighbors, including the University of Hartford’s public safety team.
• In collaboration with the CFOO, plan for use of the school’s annual capital budget and coordinate implementation of planned investments.
• Manage relationships and contracts with facilities contractors and vendors.
• Distribute critical communication about campus facilities, grounds, and safety to school employees and staff.
• Manage the School’s facilities and landscaping budgets.
• Facilitate scheduling and space planning for summer camp programs.
• Lead fleet maintenance and driver compliance.
• Be on call 24/7 to handle and respond to emergencies.

The Facilities Director will possess and utilize the following skills and dispositions:

• Experience in facilities management, building operations, or related fields
• Strong organizational, communication, problem solving and leadership skills
• Strong knowledge of building systems, maintenance practices, and safety regulations with a working knowledge of all construction trades.
• Knowledge of project management, scheduling and contractor management
• Experience with Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• Willingness to work long and flexible hours- including evenings/weekends when needed
• A belief in and commitment to Watkinson’s mission and vision
• A sense of humor and enthusiasm for the work we do each day

Watkinson is an equal-opportunity employer and an open and affirming community that seeks candidates of diverse backgrounds. This is a 12-month position and will start as soon as filled. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and three references.