Trades Manager Facilities Service

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DEPARTMENT: Capital Planning and Facilities Management

REPORTS TO: Associate VP, Capital Planning and Facilities Management

CLASSIFICATION: Staff-12 months

EFFECTIVE DATE: TBD

STANDARD

WORK HOURS:

40 hours per week

LOCATION: On-Site Main Campus

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: Full-Time

EMPLOYMENT CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

The Trades Manager provides leadership, supervision, and coordination of skilled trades and maintenance operations for Kentucky State University. This position is responsible for overseeing maintenance activities, assigning and monitoring work for trades staff, ensuring timely completion of maintenance and repair projects, and supporting the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of University facilities, infrastructure, and grounds. The Trades Manager works on-site and plays a key role in ensuring Facilities operations are responsive to institutional needs and compliant with safety and operational standards.

• Provide supervision and coordination of skilled trades staff, including assignment of daily work, oversight of maintenance activities, and evaluation of work performance.
• Oversee routine, preventive, and corrective maintenance of University buildings, infrastructure, equipment, and related systems.
• Coordinate and assist with repair, installation, and maintenance projects, including both routine work and larger facility improvement projects.
• Ensure appropriate use, maintenance, and accountability of tools, equipment, materials, and University property.
• Operate and oversee operation of light and heavy equipment as required for facilities maintenance, repair, grounds work, and related operational needs, including snow removal and seasonal maintenance activities.
• Maintain cleanliness, functionality, and safety of assigned facilities, grounds, and equipment.
• Develop and prepare reports regarding facility conditions, maintenance status, work completion, and operational needs.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, University policies, and applicable regulations, including implementation of safe work practices and training compliance.
• Coordinate with internal departments and external vendors to resolve facilities‑related issues and support operational needs.
• Support emergency response activities and participate in after‑hours or inclement weather operations as required for Facilities staff.
• Ensure adherence to preventive maintenance schedules and prioritize work orders based on operational impact and safety considerations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support Facilities Management operations.

• Knowledge of building systems including mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and structural components.
• Knowledge of facilities maintenance operations, repair practices, and preventive maintenance procedures.
• Knowledge of workplace safety practices and applicable occupational safety standards.
• Ability to supervise, train, and evaluate skilled trades personnel.
• Ability to prioritize, organize, and manage multiple work assignments in a fast‑paced operational environment.
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with staff, administrators, contractors, and vendors.
• Ability to operate and oversee operation of maintenance equipment and tools safely.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and prepare operational reports.

• This position does have supervisory responsibility.

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in facilities maintenance, skilled trades, construction, or a related field required.
• Supervisory or lead experience in a facilities or trades environment required.
• Experience in higher education or large institutional facilities operations preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Additional technical certifications or equipment operation licenses (e.g., forklift, HVAC, electrical, plumbing) preferred depending on assigned…