Director of Operations and Maintenance

Responsibilities

• Serve as the strategic lead for all university maintenance and utility infrastructure functions.
• Manage and mentor technical leads, including the Plant Engineer and Operations Manager.
• Oversee campus trades (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, carpentry) and vehicle fleet operations.
• Optimize workflow, preventative maintenance schedules, and resource allocation to maximize campus uptime.
• Direct plant operations to meet state compliance roadmaps and implement the Building Automation System (BAS) Master Plan.
• Identify and manage deferred maintenance risks and collaborate on capital renewal projects.
• Ensure adherence to all university safety regulations and staff training requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree and 3+ years of facilities leadership experience, OR 5+ years of work experience with at least 3 years in facilities leadership.
• Valid driver's license held for at least 2 years.
• Ability to be on-call 24/7 for campus emergencies.
• Ability to stand, walk, and climb to inspect facilities across a 100+ acre campus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related field.
• Experience working in a higher education or complex institutional environment.
• Proficiency with data-driven asset management tools and reliability metrics.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $82,500 - $100,000 per year.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and retirement plans.
• Tuition remission for employees and their dependents.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and major holidays off.
• Additional flexible time off.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

About the Company

Pacific Lutheran University is a small, private university located in Tacoma, WA, committed to the creation and advancement of knowledge through diversity and inclusion. PLU is an equal opportunity employer that fosters a community dedicated to expanding well-being, opportunity, and justice.