Manager of Skilled Trades

Responsibilities

• Supervise and coordinate the daily activities of unionized Skilled Trades employees, including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, painters, and masons.
• Provide leadership, coaching, mentoring, and performance management to the trades workforce.
• Plan and prioritize maintenance, repair, and improvement work across academic, residential, administrative, and athletic campus buildings.
• Develop work schedules, assign priorities, and monitor productivity to ensure timely completion of tasks.
• Support regulatory compliance efforts regarding New York State Fire Code, Department of Health requirements, and life-safety infrastructure.
• Utilize the departmental work order and maintenance management system to track progress and monitor workload.
• Oversee small renovation and facilities improvement projects, including developing scopes of work and specifications.
• Administer personnel matters in accordance with collective bargaining agreements and University policies.

Requirements

• Associate degree in a skilled trades field, construction, facilities management, engineering technology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in facilities operations, skilled trades, construction, or maintenance.
• Minimum of five years of successful supervisory or leadership experience.
• Strong working knowledge of building systems, maintenance practices, and construction methods.
• Ability to read and interpret technical plans, specifications, contracts, and documents.
• Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supervising unionized employees or working within a unionized environment.
• Knowledge of building codes, fire codes, OSHA regulations, and life-safety requirements.
• Experience in a college, university, healthcare, or other multi-building institutional environment.
• Relevant trade licenses, certifications, or OSHA training.
• Experience coordinating contractors, consultants, and small construction projects.

About the Company

St. Lawrence University is a premier institution dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience. Our Facilities team plays a critical role in maintaining a safe, functional, and inspiring campus environment for our students, faculty, and staff.