Assistant Director of Buildings and Grounds

Assistant Director of Buildings and Grounds

The Assistant Director of Buildings and Grounds assists in planning, organizing, coordinating, and supervising the maintenance, repair, custodial services, groundskeeping, and operational functions of all district facilities. This position helps ensure that school buildings and grounds are safe, clean, secure, attractive, and compliant with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations. The Assistant Director provides daily leadership to maintenance, custodial, and grounds personnel while supporting long-term facility planning and capital improvement projects.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Facilities Management, Construction Management, Engineering, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in facilities maintenance, operations, or grounds management.
• Previous supervisory experience preferred.
• Experience in a public school district or other governmental agency preferred.
• Valid driver's license.
• Illinois Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain) if required.
• EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification preferred.
• OSHA safety training preferred.
• Certified Educational Facilities Professional (CEFP), School Facilities Management certification, or equivalent preferred.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Facilities Operations:
  Assist in directing the daily operations of the Buildings and Grounds Department. Coordinate maintenance, custodial, and grounds activities across all district facilities. Inspect school buildings and grounds to ensure cleanliness, safety, and proper maintenance. Prioritize, assign, and monitor work orders to ensure timely completion. Assist in developing preventive maintenance schedules for district equipment and facilities. Respond to facility emergencies, including after-hours situations when necessary.
• Personnel Supervision:
  Assist with hiring, training, evaluating, and supervising custodial, maintenance, and grounds staff. Schedule personnel to ensure adequate coverage for all facilities. Promote a culture of teamwork, professionalism, accountability, and customer service. Monitor employee performance and recommend corrective action when necessary. Coordinate staff development and safety training.
• Safety and Compliance:
  Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, AHERA, IPM, ADA, fire codes, and other applicable regulations. Conduct routine safety inspections and identify corrective actions. Maintain required records for inspections, testing, permits, and regulatory compliance. Assist in emergency preparedness planning and response activities.
• Facilities/Grounds Management:
  Oversee repairs involving HVAC, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, painting, roofing, and general building systems. Coordinate preventive maintenance programs to maximize equipment life. Monitor building automation and energy management systems. Assist in planning and coordinating summer maintenance projects. Supervise maintenance of athletic fields, playgrounds, parking lots, sidewalks, landscaping, and snow removal. Coordinate seasonal grounds maintenance activities. Ensure outdoor facilities meet safety standards.
• Budget and Purchasing/Capital Projects:
  Assist in preparing and administering departmental budgets. Monitor expenditures and recommend cost-saving initiatives. Obtain quotes and assist with purchasing materials, equipment, and supplies. Maintain accurate inventory of equipment and supplies. Assist in planning and managing renovation and capital improvement projects. Coordinate contractors and vendors to ensure projects meet district specifications. Monitor project timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• Communication:
  Respond to facility-related concerns from administrators, staff, parents, and community members. Work collaboratively with school principals and district administrators. Prepare reports, maintenance records, and operational updates.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of building systems including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of custodial operations and industry best practices.
• Knowledge of grounds maintenance, landscaping, and snow removal operations.
• Understanding of school safety requirements and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to supervise, motivate, and evaluate staff.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), Microsoft Office, and work order software.
• Ability to analyze problems and implement effective solutions.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to walk throughout district facilities and grounds daily.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to climb ladders, work in confined spaces, and inspect rooftops and mechanical rooms.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to respond to emergencies outside normal work hours.

Working Conditions:

• Office,…