Director of Buildings & Grounds

The Director of Buildings and Grounds serves as the district's facilities leader, responsible for the comprehensive management, safety, functionality, and long-term stewardship of all Hazel Crest School District 152.5 buildings, grounds, mechanical systems, and custodial/maintenance operations. This role requires a highly skilled facilities professional with extensive experience in building construction management, high-level operational oversight, and a proven ability to lead highly effective teams in fast-paced, mission-critical environments.

The Director ensures that all district facilities are safe, clean, well-maintained, and fully operational to support high-quality learning environments. This includes strategic planning, daily operational management, budgeting, staff supervision, regulatory compliance, and coordination of all construction, renovation, and maintenance projects.

Work hours are not standard and require flexibility Monday through Friday; however, this position requires some on-call availability for emergencies, weather-related issues, and urgent facility needs. The Director must regularly inspect all buildings, including temperature checks during inclement weather.

• Lead, supervise, and evaluate custodial, maintenance, and grounds staff to ensure high performance, accountability, and adherence to district standards.
• Build and sustain a highly effective team culture focused on safety, responsiveness, and operational excellence.
• Provide ongoing coaching, performance management, and professional development for custodial and maintenance personnel.
• Coordinate daily work schedules, vacation schedules, attendance records, and staffing assignments.
• Oversee all construction, renovation, and capital improvement projects across the district.
• Serve as the district's primary liaison with architects, contractors, engineers, and vendors.
• Ensure all construction work meets specifications, timelines, safety standards, and budget requirements.
• Provide expert guidance on building systems, structural needs, and long-term facility planning.
• Develop and manage long-term maintenance schedules, including:
  • Districtwide paint cycles
  • Furniture replacement plans
  • Flooring and equipment replacement timelines
• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of facility life cycles and capital needs to support long-term planning and budgeting.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations related to facilities, safety, and environmental standards.
• Maintain accurate documentation and submit required reports on time.

• High School Diploma required; college coursework or specialized training in Buildings and Grounds preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of supervisory experience with a strong background in building construction management.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in planning, maintaining, or managing physical facilities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of facility management, construction principles, maintenance operations, and building security.
• Experience leading high-performing teams in facilities or construction environments.
• Strong skills in personnel management, communication, and problem-solving.
• Ability to read blueprints, construction documents, and technical manuals.
• Ability to work independently, make sound decisions, and manage multiple priorities.

Salary Range
: $110,000-$120,000