This leadership position is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, operational management, and physical development of the University of Lynchburg's campus environment. The role requires a visionary, hands-on leader who can foster innovation, ensure the safety and functionality of the physical plant, manage multi-million dollar capital projects, and advance the university's mission. This position reports to the Assistant Vice President of Operations.
Responsibilities
Develop and implement comprehensive strategic plans for campus infrastructure and maintenance that align with the university's goals and the new presidential administration's priorities
Provide executive leadership to the Facilities Management team
Directly supervise and mentor direct reports
Foster an inclusive, equitable work environment for a diverse workforce of tradespeople, staff, and contractors
Ensure strict campus compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations, including OSHA, EPA, ADA accessibility standards, and fire/life safety codes
Formulate and implement policies for preventative maintenance, emergency response, and severe weather protocols to enhance operational effectiveness and ensure compliance with safety regulations
Manage complex departmental budgets, including the negotiation and oversight of external vendor contracts (e.g., landscaping, elevator maintenance, and waste management), resource allocation, and financial forecasting
Oversee the creation of sustainable campus initiatives, prioritizing energy management, carbon footprint reduction, and waste diversion, alongside major capital renovations (including complex electrical infrastructure upgrades) and space management solutions
Direct comprehensive logistical operations, including the procurement and maintenance of the university vehicle fleet, execution of annual student move-in/move-out processes, and coordination of campus-wide faculty and staff office relocations
Serve as the primary liaison between Facilities Management and other university divisions (such as Residence Life, Campus Safety, and the Office of the President), fostering partnerships to execute seamless campus events and transitions
Utilize software tools and data analytics to evaluate work order efficiency, track preventative maintenance, and inform capital spending decisions
Represent the university in local community relations, coordinating with city management and public works regarding zoning, comprehensive city plans, and major campus disruptions
Requirements
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse workforce including tradespeople, project managers, and administrative staff
Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical and construction details clearly to non-technical audiences, including executive leadership and external stakeholders
Millions of jobs, with real people getting hired every day
200,000+
New jobs added daily
7,000,000+
Verified job listings
1,000,000+
Tailored applications submitted
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to assess emergency situations, identify infrastructure challenges, and implement cost-effective solutions
Ability to build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships across all levels of the university
Flexibility to pivot and direct emergency responses 24/7 in a dynamic higher education environment
Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive leadership experience in facilities management or physical plant operations, with demonstrated success in team leadership, capital project management, and strategic planning
Proven experience in complex budget management, vendor contract negotiation, and resource allocation
Proficiency in utilizing Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to drive operational efficiency
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, Business Administration, or a closely related field or a Master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Business Administration, or a related field
Nice to have:
Experience in a senior administrative facilities role within a university, healthcare system, or similar large-scale institutional environment
Professional certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Certified Educational Facilities Professional (CEFP), or a Professional Engineer (P.E.) license
Completion of OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour safety training
Familiarity with current trends, sustainability challenges, and technological operations (e.g., HVAC, switchgear, plumbing systems) within higher education
Direct experience with specific operational software platforms, including Asset Essentials and StarRez
Benefits
Generous paid vacation, personal days, paid sick time and family leave
Comprehensive insurance (medical, dental, vision, etc.) and retirement plans
Flexible spending account
Tuition remission
Life and long-term disability insurance
Important Details
Schedule: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm (7.5 hours/day) with some evenings and weekends to meet needs of the department may be required
Working conditions: Full-time, 100% on-site position requiring standard office hours with frequent evening, weekend, or on-call commitments to respond to campus emergencies, severe weather events, or major campus milestones (e.g., Commencement, homecoming, student move-in, founder’s week)
Physical navigation: Active campus environment requiring regular physical navigation of multi-acre grounds, mechanical rooms, and active construction sites, alongside standard office interactions
Physical requirements: Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, safely climb ladders, navigate confined spaces, and endure exposure to varying temperatures and extreme weather conditions during site inspections and emergencies
Application Process
Successfully pass a background check that is satisfactory to the University
Submit a cover letter, résumé, and three professional references
About the Company
The University of Lynchburg is a private, regional university in the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Central Virginia. The Operations Department includes Environmental Services & Grounds, Maintenance, Capital Projects, and Warehouse & Logistics (including vehicles, housing operations, and office moves). The university is committed to creating an environment that fosters a student-centered approach, develops a breadth of knowledge, respects and supports diversity, equity, and inclusion, values and celebrates diverse faith traditions, and sustains close working relationships among its community members.
