Job Posting

Director of Physical Plant Operations & Planning
Search # 1112-0016

Ohio Wesleyan University invites applications for the Director of Physical Plant Operations and Planning. The Director is responsible for planning, coordinating and directing all activities related to the upkeep, improvement, daily operation and repair of the University’s facilities, which include 98 acres of land, 60 academic and residential buildings, and 1,450,000 square feet under roof. The Director supervises 2 subordinate managers, 5 working supervisors, 21 total Ohio Wesleyan employees, and approximately 46 full-time equivalent outside contractors. Ohio Wesleyan University is a selective, private, undergraduate liberal arts, residential institution founded in 1842 and is located just 20 miles north of Columbus.

Specific Responsibilities include:

1. Maintain a high-level of positive, responsive, and collaborative communications with all constituents.
2. Establish divisional goals in support of the OWU Strategic Plan and in collaboration with other divisions.
3. Responsible for budgetary planning and control of more than $7.5 million across numerous cost centers and experience in effectively managing resources within established budgetary limitations, prioritizing work to best meet organizational needs within the resources allocated.
4. Develop, coordinate, communicate and implement an effective planned preventive maintenance schedule and a capital improvements plan for the entire campus buildings, grounds and utility systems.
5. Responsible for the development, training, implementation and management of trade policies and procedures which utilize the full potential of the physical and human resources of the College.
6. Work in close association with other Departments in resolving problems and devising plans.
7. Conduct daily campus inspections and provide daily supervision to subordinate managers.
8. Insure that all work is performed in full compliance with the appropriate safety procedures.
9. The manager will screen prospective employees, conduct evaluations for support staff, and make recommendations for employment or termination of employees within his/her area of responsibility.
10. Oversee operation of the University transportation fleet and motor pool.
11. Oversee operation of the University Central Stores and central receiving.
12. Develop and implement an effective energy conservation program to meet consumption reduction goals. Work closely with faculty, staff and students to minimize impact of conservation measures on programs.
13. Resolve customer complaints in a positive and productive fashion. Ensure positive public relations with the campus and community.
14. Facilitate the maintenance and repair of all physical assets in a safe, timely, cost efficient, and service-oriented manner.
15. Set climate for professional growth and development for subordinate staff. Organize and plan the training of all skilled and support personnel.
16. Manage and enhance the data systems for chargeback billing.
17. Maintain effective means of receipt and dispatch of maintenance and service calls reported form throughout the campus. Establish and maintain logs, records, etc. necessary to maintain positive control of flow and progress of the work. Coordinate all record and reporting systems in a manner to interface with appropriate electronic data systems.
18. Act as liaison with federal, state, and local agencies, companies and contractors, and members of the University community on all technical matters affecting Facilities Management.
19. Interpret and ensure compliance with all city, state and federal regulations concerning environmental protection, fire and electrical underwriter codes, safety, boiler and pressure vessel codes and other codes and regulations which may apply.
20. Write program statements for new construction and remodeling. Act as primary point of contact for architects, construction managers, and contractors performing facilities work on the campus.
21. Write all required internal and external reports relating to Facilities Management.
22. Demonstrate ability to oversee a variety of programs simultaneously and to adapt to changing priorities and requirements.
23. Demonstrate ability to read and interpret working drawings and blueprints and do take-offs.
24. Ability to estimate material and labor costs on multi-craft jobs, and to deal effectively with contractors on outsourced work.

Qualifications:

1. Understanding of the purposes of higher education and the ability to work with administrators and faculty in a collegial and collaborative relationship.
2. Baccalaureate degree relating to engineering, architecture, business management, construction management or a related field is required.
3. Post-Baccalaureate degree, certifications, professional registrations (i.e. Professional Engineer, Project Management Professional, etc.) or other evidence of ongoing commitment to professional development strongly preferred.
4. Minimum of eight years of progressively responsible experience in management of physical plant operations; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
5. Ability to organize and delegate work so as to control a variety of programs simultaneously and the adaptability to cope with frequently changing physical plant needs standards and requirements.
6. Practical knowledge of building construction and maintenance practices and codes associated with all physical plant functions and the operation of utility distribution systems.
7. Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with diverse constituencies and accomplished written and oral communication skills are necessary.
8. A high degree of computer literacy and a working knowledge with architectural plans and specifications are essential.

Completed application packets will include:

1. Letter of interest (cover letter) with salary requirements
2. Resume or Curriculum Vitae
3. The names, titles, & contact information for three professional references.

Please e-mail application materials to: hr@owu.edu.

Ohio Wesleyan University offers a competitive salary and benefits package that includes a generous retirement contribution, tuition remission, health insurance and a wonderful working environment.

Application review will begin immediately and will continue until position is filled.

Ohio Wesleyan University is strongly committed to diversity within its community and encourages all interested applicants, including women and minorities, to apply (EEOE).

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