Director of Plant Operations

Department: Maintenance & OperationsReports To: Superintendent or DesigneeFLSA Status: ExemptWork Year: 12 MonthsPosition PurposeThe Director of Plant Operations provides leadership and oversight for all district facilities, maintenance, custodial services, grounds, warehouse operations, and capital improvement projects. This position ensures safe, clean, functional, and code-compliant learning environments while managing personnel, budgets, service contracts, and regulatory compliance.Essential FunctionsLeadership & AdministrationSupervise maintenance, custodial, grounds, and warehouse departments.Interview, recommend, onboard, evaluate, and discipline staff in accordance with district policy.Manage payroll and departmental budgets.Provide training and professional development.Facilities & Maintenance OversightOversee preventive maintenance programs for HVAC, electrical, plumbing, roofing, food service equipment, and general facility systems.Ensure compliance with fire protection, life safety, generator, and backflow inspection requirements.Manage key control and card access systems.Project & Contract ManagementCoordinate construction, renovations, and facility upgrades.Develop specifications, secure quotes, and monitor contractor performance.Manage service contracts (HVAC, pest control, fire systems, elevators, water treatment, uniforms, bleachers, etc.).Custodial, Grounds, Warehouse OperationsProvide direction and oversight for custodial and grounds supervisors.Oversee purchasing of supplies, equipment, furniture, vehicles, and materials.Manage fleet oversight and surplus sales.Records & ComplianceMaintain required documentation including inspections, fire marshal records, asbestos records, warranties, vendor contracts, and project files.Ensure compliance with all applicable safety codes and regulatory requirements.Technology and SystemsUtilize maintenance management, payroll, and purchasing systems.Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.Additional Duties - Performs other tasks as assigned. by the Superintendent or designee.Knowledge, Skills, And AbilitiesAbility to communicate effectively with stakeholders inside and outside the District.Ability to establish cooperative and effective working relationships inside and outside the District.Ability to work in a highly visible and fast-paced work environment.Ability to work under pressure and deal effectively with unexpected events in a timely and appropriate manner.Knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, roofing, and life-safety building systems.Knowledge of fire codes, OSHA standards, environmental regulations, and inspection compliance requirements.Knowledge of public procurement processes and contract administration.Skill in supervising and evaluating personnel across multiple operational departments.Skill in budget development, fiscal oversight, and cost control.Skill in project management, including construction and renovation coordination.Skill in vendor negotiation and performance monitoring.Ability to analyze operational data and implement preventive maintenance systems.Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining regulatory compliance and documentation.Ability to communicate effectively with administrators, staff, contractors, and community stakeholders.Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards - This position requires regular walking, standing, bending, climbing, and occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds while conducting facility inspections and overseeing operations. The role requires the ability to manage multiple priorities, analyze technical information, and respond effectively to operational issues and emergencies. Work may involve exposure to outdoor weather conditions, construction environments, mechanical systems, and maintenance-related equipment and materials.Equipment - Uses standard office equipment, maintenance management systems, communication devices, district vehicles, and tools associated with facility and grounds operations.Travel Requirements - Travel to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.Education/ExperienceBachelor's degree in Facilities Management, Construction Management, Engineering, Business, or related field preferred. Equivalent experience considered.Minimum five (5) years of supervisory experience in facilities, maintenance, or operations.Experience managing budgets, personnel, and projects.Knowledge of building systems, life safety requirements, and regulatory compliance.An equivalent combination of education, training, and directly related experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered in lieu of formal degree requirements.FLSA Status: Exempt