The California State University
Senior Director of Maintenance and Operations
The California State University, San Jose, California, United States, 95199
Senior Director of Maintenance and Operations
Reporting to the Senior Associate Vice President for Facilities Development & Operations, the Senior Director of Maintenance & Operations provides strategic leadership, administrative direction, and management oversight for all building and grounds maintenance, operations, and related services across San José State University’s 167-acre, multisite campus. This includes responsibility for the maintenance of more than six million gross square feet of facilities and infrastructure, as well as the management of custodial, grounds, fleet, and moving services units comprising approximately 235 staff members and an annual operating budget of $20 million. The Senior Director ensures the efficient operation, safety, and sustainability of campus facilities and utility systems through effective planning, resource allocation, and the use of a comprehensive computerized maintenance management system. The role also leads the development and execution of deferred maintenance and capital renewal programs, directs compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and drives initiatives that promote energy efficiency, sustainability, and customer service excellence.
As a key member of the FD&O leadership team, the Senior Director collaborates across departments and with campus partners to align operations with University priorities, develop and implement strategic initiatives, and ensure business continuity and emergency response preparedness. The incumbent provides vision and mentorship to unit managers, fosters a culture of accountability and inclusivity, and models exemplary service and professionalism in support of the University’s mission and values.
Key Responsibilities
Provide leadership and oversight for all maintenance and operational services including building trades, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, custodial, grounds, automotive, recycling, and moving services
Oversee and ensure full utilization of the computerized maintenance management system to plan, schedule, track, and manage preventive and corrective maintenance programs
Direct the development and implementation of deferred maintenance and capital renewal plans using data-driven strategies that optimize resources and minimize lifecycle costs
Collaborate with Planning, Design & Construction on capital investment planning and ensure compliance with all design, permitting, and code requirements
Develop and manage operating budgets, service level plans, and performance metrics to ensure effective resource utilization and accountability
Provide strategic leadership in sustainability, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and green operational practices
Lead personnel management for over 200 staff members including recruitment, evaluation, development, labor relations, and team engagement
Serve as a key liaison with campus stakeholders to promote customer service excellence, responsiveness, and clear communication
Ensure departmental compliance with applicable local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations
Direct emergency preparedness, response, and business continuity planning within Maintenance & Operations
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Comprehensive knowledge of building systems, utilities, infrastructure, and facilities operations management
Strong knowledge of maintenance project planning, capital renewal, and deferred maintenance strategies
Demonstrated expertise in energy management, sustainability initiatives, and operational efficiency improvements
Proven experience in budget development, financial management, and resource planning for large-scale operations
Deep understanding of public contracting laws and procurement processes, including proposal evaluation and negotiation
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate, mentor, and develop diverse teams
Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills to manage complex operational challenges
Ability to collaborate effectively across organizational units, fostering teamwork and continuous improvement
Competence in developing and maintaining customer-focused service models within a higher education environment
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Facilities management, construction management, business or a related field OR equivalent experience such as ten years of supervisory experience
Ten years of supervisory experience and five years of senior leadership experience within a multi-faceted facilities maintenance organization
Demonstrated management experience leading and overseeing technical operations and services common to a multi-faceted facilities maintenance organization including resources planning
Preferred Qualifications
Prefer registration as a professional Engineer
Prefer CEFP certification through the Association of Physical Plant Administrators and/or CFM certification through the International Facilities Management Association
Supervisory experience within a collective bargaining and represented staff environment
Experience planning and implementing deferred maintenance and utility infrastructure projects
Experience in maintenance and operational management of a State facility, College or University, or other multi-facility complex
Compensation Classification: Administrator III Anticipated Hiring Range: $16,167/month – $17,457/month CSU Salary Range: $6,891/month – $22,119/month The final hiring salary will be commensurate with experience. San José State University offers a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30‑35% of base salary.
Application Procedure Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:
Resume
Letter of Interest
All applicants must apply within the specified application period:
October 28, 2025 – November 11, 2025 . This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university. Contact Information University Personnel jobs@sjsu.edu 408‑924‑2252
CSU Vaccination Policy The CSU strongly recommends that all individuals who access any in‑person program or activity (on‑ or off‑campus) operated or controlled by the University follow COVID‑19 vaccine recommendations adopted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) applicable to their age, medical condition, and other relevant indications and comply with other safety measures established by each campus.
Equal Employment Statement San José State University is an equal‑opportunity employer. The university prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, caste, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, nationality, race, religion, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, sex stereotype, and veteran status. This policy applies to all San José State University students, faculty, and staff, as well as university programs and activities. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and certain other federal and state laws, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university. Reasonable accommodation is made for applicants with disabilities who self‑disclose. San José State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.
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As a key member of the FD&O leadership team, the Senior Director collaborates across departments and with campus partners to align operations with University priorities, develop and implement strategic initiatives, and ensure business continuity and emergency response preparedness. The incumbent provides vision and mentorship to unit managers, fosters a culture of accountability and inclusivity, and models exemplary service and professionalism in support of the University’s mission and values.
Key Responsibilities
Provide leadership and oversight for all maintenance and operational services including building trades, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, custodial, grounds, automotive, recycling, and moving services
Oversee and ensure full utilization of the computerized maintenance management system to plan, schedule, track, and manage preventive and corrective maintenance programs
Direct the development and implementation of deferred maintenance and capital renewal plans using data-driven strategies that optimize resources and minimize lifecycle costs
Collaborate with Planning, Design & Construction on capital investment planning and ensure compliance with all design, permitting, and code requirements
Develop and manage operating budgets, service level plans, and performance metrics to ensure effective resource utilization and accountability
Provide strategic leadership in sustainability, energy efficiency, waste reduction, and green operational practices
Lead personnel management for over 200 staff members including recruitment, evaluation, development, labor relations, and team engagement
Serve as a key liaison with campus stakeholders to promote customer service excellence, responsiveness, and clear communication
Ensure departmental compliance with applicable local, state, and federal safety and environmental regulations
Direct emergency preparedness, response, and business continuity planning within Maintenance & Operations
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Comprehensive knowledge of building systems, utilities, infrastructure, and facilities operations management
Strong knowledge of maintenance project planning, capital renewal, and deferred maintenance strategies
Demonstrated expertise in energy management, sustainability initiatives, and operational efficiency improvements
Proven experience in budget development, financial management, and resource planning for large-scale operations
Deep understanding of public contracting laws and procurement processes, including proposal evaluation and negotiation
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate, mentor, and develop diverse teams
Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills to manage complex operational challenges
Ability to collaborate effectively across organizational units, fostering teamwork and continuous improvement
Competence in developing and maintaining customer-focused service models within a higher education environment
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Facilities management, construction management, business or a related field OR equivalent experience such as ten years of supervisory experience
Ten years of supervisory experience and five years of senior leadership experience within a multi-faceted facilities maintenance organization
Demonstrated management experience leading and overseeing technical operations and services common to a multi-faceted facilities maintenance organization including resources planning
Preferred Qualifications
Prefer registration as a professional Engineer
Prefer CEFP certification through the Association of Physical Plant Administrators and/or CFM certification through the International Facilities Management Association
Supervisory experience within a collective bargaining and represented staff environment
Experience planning and implementing deferred maintenance and utility infrastructure projects
Experience in maintenance and operational management of a State facility, College or University, or other multi-facility complex
Compensation Classification: Administrator III Anticipated Hiring Range: $16,167/month – $17,457/month CSU Salary Range: $6,891/month – $22,119/month The final hiring salary will be commensurate with experience. San José State University offers a comprehensive benefits package typically worth 30‑35% of base salary.
Application Procedure Click Apply Now to complete the SJSU Online Employment Application and attach the following documents:
Resume
Letter of Interest
All applicants must apply within the specified application period:
October 28, 2025 – November 11, 2025 . This position is open until filled; however, applications received after screening has begun will be considered at the discretion of the university. Contact Information University Personnel jobs@sjsu.edu 408‑924‑2252
CSU Vaccination Policy The CSU strongly recommends that all individuals who access any in‑person program or activity (on‑ or off‑campus) operated or controlled by the University follow COVID‑19 vaccine recommendations adopted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) applicable to their age, medical condition, and other relevant indications and comply with other safety measures established by each campus.
Equal Employment Statement San José State University is an equal‑opportunity employer. The university prohibits discrimination based on age, ancestry, caste, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, nationality, race, religion, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, sex stereotype, and veteran status. This policy applies to all San José State University students, faculty, and staff, as well as university programs and activities. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and certain other federal and state laws, prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in all education programs and activities operated by the university. Reasonable accommodation is made for applicants with disabilities who self‑disclose. San José State University employees are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.
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