Director, Facilities

Position :
Director, Facilities

Position Type :
Full-Time, Permanent

Department :
Operations

Location :
Boulder, CO (onsite)

Experience : 10+ years of relevant industry experience, including 5+ years in facilities leadership roles

Position Summary

Watchmaker Genomics is seeking a seasoned Facilities Director to lead our facilities operations and strategy at our Boulder, CO headquarters. This senior leadership role reports to the Vice President, Operations and is responsible for the long-term planning, development, compliance, and optimization of all facilities-related functions. The Director will oversee the physical infrastructure that supports our critical R&D, manufacturing, and office operations, ensuring alignment with strategic business goals and regulatory standards.

The ideal candidate is an experienced facilities leader who excels in strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and operational excellence within regulated life science or advanced manufacturing environments. You will play a pivotal role in shaping a safe, compliant, and scalable operational environment that supports Watchmaker’s continued growth.

• Develop and execute a long-term facilities strategy that supports company growth, scientific innovation, and operational efficiency.
• Lead space planning initiatives including laboratory expansions, equipment commissioning, office renovations, and infrastructure upgrades.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align facilities planning with company-wide strategic goals.

• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and optimization of all building systems including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, office, and critical manufacturing infrastructure.
• Establish and enforce best-in-class preventive maintenance programs and vendor management protocols.
• Ensure uninterrupted operations through robust risk management, business continuity, and emergency response plans.

• Manage facilities-related capital projects from design through execution, including scope, budget, and timeline.
• Develop and manage the annual facilities operating and capital expenditure budgets.
• Lead contractor negotiations and vendor relationships to ensure cost-effective and high-quality service delivery.

• Ensure facilities and equipment comply with local, state, and federal regulations, including ISO and OSHA standards.
• Oversee and maintain documentation for audits, inspections, and regulatory submissions.
  Act as a point of contact during audits and inspections and lead the implementation of corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).

• Serve as the executive sponsor of the company’s EH&S program; ensure compliance with all safety protocols, policies, and training requirements.
• Lead the EH&S committee and ensure a culture of safety across all functions.
• Stay current on evolving safety regulations and industry standards.

• Build and manage a high-performing facilities and EH&S team, including facilities technicians, contractors, and safety personnel.
• Provide mentorship, professional development, and clear performance expectations for team members.
• Foster a collaborative and accountable culture within the operations department.

• Identify and lead initiatives to improve energy efficiency, space utilization, sustainability, and cost management.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies to enhance facility performance and monitoring capabilities.
• Stay abreast of industry trends and recommend strategic improvements accordingly.

• In-depth knowledge of complex building systems, laboratory infrastructure, and manufacturing environments.
• Strong understanding of facilities operations in regulated life science or pharmaceutical settings.
• Experience in capital project management, EH&S leadership, and regulatory compliance.

• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage external stakeholders, including contractors, auditors, and regulatory bodies.
• Exceptional planning, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills across technical and executive audiences.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, facilities management, operations, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of industry experience, including 5+ years in a senior leadership…