The University of Kansas
Assistant Director for Facilities Quality and Management
The University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, us, 66045
Position Overview
The University of Kansas seeks an Assistant Director of Facilities Services to provide daily oversight and strategic leadership for the university’s facility management team.
This role supports the overall facilities services maintenance operation and oversees a team of Building Managers responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and effective operation of campus buildings.
The Assistant Director acts as a key liaison between Facilities Services, Transportation Services, Environment Health and Safety, Space Management, Facilities Planning and Development, building occupants and department stakeholders, ensuring that facility‑related needs are met and that communication regarding maintenance, custodial, space usage and improvements is timely and clear.
Schedule Monday to Friday 7:30 am to 4:30 pm
Facilities Services within KU Operations Facilities Services plays a vital role in maintaining an inviting and safe campus environment that supports teaching, learning and research.
KU Operations supports KU’s mission of learning, scholarship, and creative endeavor by providing the visible and behind‑the‑scenes services that make possible the university’s academic and research missions.
Benefits KU offers great benefits to employees with up to 176 hours of paid vacation per year, 96 hours of sick leave earned per year, nine paid holidays plus one discretionary day, a retirement program, medical & dental insurance, life and disability insurance, other benefit plan options, and State of Kansas discounts offered by various vendors.
KU also offers employees educational and professional development opportunities.
Tuition assistance offers up to 12 credit hours per year for employees and Employee Dependent Tuition Assistance Scholarship (EDTAS) award opportunities!
Details available at https://humanresources.ku.edu/tuition-assistance
Our Culture KU’s excellence is a result of the rich tapestry of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds of our faculty, staff, students, and colleagues from across our nation and the globe.
We invest in continuous learning and growth by creating a climate where people engage in respectful dialogue and debate and support each other’s success.
We foster a culture of care where each person is seen, heard, and valued.
When people feel a true sense of belonging, we believe they are better able to reach their full potential and achieve remarkable things.
Responsibilities Oversight and Management of Buildings and Building Managers (40%)
Manages and coordinates direct report building manager teams; helps find creative and sustainable solutions to issues; leads a culture of reliability and campus stewardship.
Performs supervisory duties such as facilitating training, development and performance evaluation for Building Managers, facilities services staff, including garage, inspectors, and special services.
Ensures routine building inspections are conducted and deficiencies are documented and addressed in a timely manner.
Provides excellent customer service to occupants of buildings and stakeholders.
Provides timely and clear communication with stakeholders.
Builds a culture of positive internal and external relationships between operations and the campus community through the building manager program; develops a well‑trained staff oriented to the best interest of the university and its mission; develops a culture of accessibility and proactive communication across all levels.
Establishes and implements short- and long-range goals and strategic plans; monitors and evaluates programmatic and operational effectiveness while also proposing and implementing changes for additional improvements throughout the unit.
Maintains compliance with university policies and procedures; represents the unit to develop and enforce system-wide protocols and procedures to ensure university requirements are met.
Develops, implements and maintains an internal inspection program to ensure facility quality; inspections may also include exterior locations like roofs, building exteriors and surrounding grounds spaces.
Analyzes and delivers effective reporting of building inspection data; monitors and maintains key performance, effectiveness and budgetary data for FS Maintenance.
Develops, coordinates, or delivers training programs and makes recommendations to leadership for unit or individual professional development training.
Reviews completed work for quality workmanship, adherence to technical specifications and customer satisfaction.
Serves as the escalation point for complex or unresolved building-related issues raised by building managers or occupants.
Evaluates and recommends upgrades and improvements for both basic functions and future state best practices.
Works closely with the director on ROI planning and budgetary impact for technology improvements; responsible for the development and implementation of a plan that provides for the routine identification and correction of campus facility deficiencies.
Develops metrics and reports regarding work activities and timeframes.
Facilities Services (30%)
Establishes and implements short and long range goals and strategic plans, safety and operating procedures; monitors and evaluates programmatic and operational effectiveness as well as proposes and implements changes for additional improvements throughout the unit.
Keeps accurate tracking of spending and completes financial approvals.
Manages deferred maintenance approvals.
Reviews and approves in Maximo FS approval required items.
Handles day-to-day administrative tasks.
Implements and tracks safety training.
Responds to and manages initial response to emergency situations during regular shifts, nights, weekends and holidays; serves "on-call" on a rotating basis with other professional staff to manage facilities-related emergencies and approve call backs as appropriate.
Resource Stewardship (20%)
Advises FS Director and university leadership on capital facilities and deferred maintenance needs to adequately maintain the physical facilities of the university.
Assists the Director with allocation of fiscal resource budgeting for various improvement and maintenance projects; independently assesses the financial impact of the projects for ROI planning.
Assists the FS Director, university leaders, space management planners, FPD, faculty and staff to analyze and assess maintenance, resource stewardship, and growth and facilities needs pertaining to programmatic changes; provides input as appropriate.
Collaborates continuously with all Operation units, including attending or designating staff to attend project meetings about construction, renovation and improvement projects affecting campus buildings; participates in strategic planning and contributes to the continuous improvement efforts within Facilities Services.
Assists the FS Director with annual budget planning and progress; assists with planning, developing and implementing strategies for continuous improvement and efficiency to save resources; assists with planning, developing and implementing strategies for generating resources and/or revenue streams; conducts regular review of budget actuals to identify resource issues and opportunities; coordinates with FPD and University leaders on capital construction (new, remodel, or removal) to plan and communicate appropriately for operational needs; ensures accurate and timely reporting of space usage and occupancy changes to the Office of Space Management.
Uses data to support operational planning and decision-making.
Creates, implements and maintains a program for auditing completed projects to ensure alignment with organizational standards and strategic objectives.
Other duties as assigned (10%)
Assists in emergency/urgent situations as needed.
Assists the director in other tasks assigned.
Operates KU issued vehicles to transport self and materials to work sites.
Position Requirements
Must have a valid driver’s license at the time of hire and throughout the term of employment.
Work under a variety of temperature and weather extremes, both inside and outdoors.
Regularly required to bend, stoop, kneel, climb ladders or stairs, travel through utility distribution tunnels, and work in a physically demanding environment across varied campus terrain.
Must be able to reach, grasp, lift, carry, and place moderately heavy loads (up to 20 pounds) frequently, and heavy loads occasionally (50 pounds) with or without accommodation.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management or related field and three (3) years of related experience in facility management or related discipline OR a high school diploma and seven (7) years of experience in facilities management or related discipline.
Three (3) years of supervisory and/or management experience.
Strong written communication skills as demonstrated through application materials.
Preferred Qualifications
Proven experience creating and implementing facility inspections as evidenced by application materials.
Five (5) years of experience in a large institutional or academic setting with emphasis on the repair, cleaning, maintenance, and operations of facilities.
CEFP certified (or similar equivalent).
Experience utilizing automated work ticketing and reporting systems, asset tagging operations and associated database systems as evidenced by application materials.
Strong verbal communication skills as demonstrated through interview and references.
Additional Candidate Instructions
A cover letter addressing how required and preferred qualifications are met.
Resume or curriculum vitae.
Contact information for three professional references.
Application Application review begins Friday, January 16th 2026 and continues until a pool of qualified applicants is identified.
Contact Information to Applicants Shawn Harding s366h815@ku.edu
Salary Starting at $80,000
Anticipated Start Date Monday February 9, 2026
#J-18808-Ljbffr
This role supports the overall facilities services maintenance operation and oversees a team of Building Managers responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and effective operation of campus buildings.
The Assistant Director acts as a key liaison between Facilities Services, Transportation Services, Environment Health and Safety, Space Management, Facilities Planning and Development, building occupants and department stakeholders, ensuring that facility‑related needs are met and that communication regarding maintenance, custodial, space usage and improvements is timely and clear.
Schedule Monday to Friday 7:30 am to 4:30 pm
Facilities Services within KU Operations Facilities Services plays a vital role in maintaining an inviting and safe campus environment that supports teaching, learning and research.
KU Operations supports KU’s mission of learning, scholarship, and creative endeavor by providing the visible and behind‑the‑scenes services that make possible the university’s academic and research missions.
Benefits KU offers great benefits to employees with up to 176 hours of paid vacation per year, 96 hours of sick leave earned per year, nine paid holidays plus one discretionary day, a retirement program, medical & dental insurance, life and disability insurance, other benefit plan options, and State of Kansas discounts offered by various vendors.
KU also offers employees educational and professional development opportunities.
Tuition assistance offers up to 12 credit hours per year for employees and Employee Dependent Tuition Assistance Scholarship (EDTAS) award opportunities!
Details available at https://humanresources.ku.edu/tuition-assistance
Our Culture KU’s excellence is a result of the rich tapestry of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds of our faculty, staff, students, and colleagues from across our nation and the globe.
We invest in continuous learning and growth by creating a climate where people engage in respectful dialogue and debate and support each other’s success.
We foster a culture of care where each person is seen, heard, and valued.
When people feel a true sense of belonging, we believe they are better able to reach their full potential and achieve remarkable things.
Responsibilities Oversight and Management of Buildings and Building Managers (40%)
Manages and coordinates direct report building manager teams; helps find creative and sustainable solutions to issues; leads a culture of reliability and campus stewardship.
Performs supervisory duties such as facilitating training, development and performance evaluation for Building Managers, facilities services staff, including garage, inspectors, and special services.
Ensures routine building inspections are conducted and deficiencies are documented and addressed in a timely manner.
Provides excellent customer service to occupants of buildings and stakeholders.
Provides timely and clear communication with stakeholders.
Builds a culture of positive internal and external relationships between operations and the campus community through the building manager program; develops a well‑trained staff oriented to the best interest of the university and its mission; develops a culture of accessibility and proactive communication across all levels.
Establishes and implements short- and long-range goals and strategic plans; monitors and evaluates programmatic and operational effectiveness while also proposing and implementing changes for additional improvements throughout the unit.
Maintains compliance with university policies and procedures; represents the unit to develop and enforce system-wide protocols and procedures to ensure university requirements are met.
Develops, implements and maintains an internal inspection program to ensure facility quality; inspections may also include exterior locations like roofs, building exteriors and surrounding grounds spaces.
Analyzes and delivers effective reporting of building inspection data; monitors and maintains key performance, effectiveness and budgetary data for FS Maintenance.
Develops, coordinates, or delivers training programs and makes recommendations to leadership for unit or individual professional development training.
Reviews completed work for quality workmanship, adherence to technical specifications and customer satisfaction.
Serves as the escalation point for complex or unresolved building-related issues raised by building managers or occupants.
Evaluates and recommends upgrades and improvements for both basic functions and future state best practices.
Works closely with the director on ROI planning and budgetary impact for technology improvements; responsible for the development and implementation of a plan that provides for the routine identification and correction of campus facility deficiencies.
Develops metrics and reports regarding work activities and timeframes.
Facilities Services (30%)
Establishes and implements short and long range goals and strategic plans, safety and operating procedures; monitors and evaluates programmatic and operational effectiveness as well as proposes and implements changes for additional improvements throughout the unit.
Keeps accurate tracking of spending and completes financial approvals.
Manages deferred maintenance approvals.
Reviews and approves in Maximo FS approval required items.
Handles day-to-day administrative tasks.
Implements and tracks safety training.
Responds to and manages initial response to emergency situations during regular shifts, nights, weekends and holidays; serves "on-call" on a rotating basis with other professional staff to manage facilities-related emergencies and approve call backs as appropriate.
Resource Stewardship (20%)
Advises FS Director and university leadership on capital facilities and deferred maintenance needs to adequately maintain the physical facilities of the university.
Assists the Director with allocation of fiscal resource budgeting for various improvement and maintenance projects; independently assesses the financial impact of the projects for ROI planning.
Assists the FS Director, university leaders, space management planners, FPD, faculty and staff to analyze and assess maintenance, resource stewardship, and growth and facilities needs pertaining to programmatic changes; provides input as appropriate.
Collaborates continuously with all Operation units, including attending or designating staff to attend project meetings about construction, renovation and improvement projects affecting campus buildings; participates in strategic planning and contributes to the continuous improvement efforts within Facilities Services.
Assists the FS Director with annual budget planning and progress; assists with planning, developing and implementing strategies for continuous improvement and efficiency to save resources; assists with planning, developing and implementing strategies for generating resources and/or revenue streams; conducts regular review of budget actuals to identify resource issues and opportunities; coordinates with FPD and University leaders on capital construction (new, remodel, or removal) to plan and communicate appropriately for operational needs; ensures accurate and timely reporting of space usage and occupancy changes to the Office of Space Management.
Uses data to support operational planning and decision-making.
Creates, implements and maintains a program for auditing completed projects to ensure alignment with organizational standards and strategic objectives.
Other duties as assigned (10%)
Assists in emergency/urgent situations as needed.
Assists the director in other tasks assigned.
Operates KU issued vehicles to transport self and materials to work sites.
Position Requirements
Must have a valid driver’s license at the time of hire and throughout the term of employment.
Work under a variety of temperature and weather extremes, both inside and outdoors.
Regularly required to bend, stoop, kneel, climb ladders or stairs, travel through utility distribution tunnels, and work in a physically demanding environment across varied campus terrain.
Must be able to reach, grasp, lift, carry, and place moderately heavy loads (up to 20 pounds) frequently, and heavy loads occasionally (50 pounds) with or without accommodation.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management or related field and three (3) years of related experience in facility management or related discipline OR a high school diploma and seven (7) years of experience in facilities management or related discipline.
Three (3) years of supervisory and/or management experience.
Strong written communication skills as demonstrated through application materials.
Preferred Qualifications
Proven experience creating and implementing facility inspections as evidenced by application materials.
Five (5) years of experience in a large institutional or academic setting with emphasis on the repair, cleaning, maintenance, and operations of facilities.
CEFP certified (or similar equivalent).
Experience utilizing automated work ticketing and reporting systems, asset tagging operations and associated database systems as evidenced by application materials.
Strong verbal communication skills as demonstrated through interview and references.
Additional Candidate Instructions
A cover letter addressing how required and preferred qualifications are met.
Resume or curriculum vitae.
Contact information for three professional references.
Application Application review begins Friday, January 16th 2026 and continues until a pool of qualified applicants is identified.
Contact Information to Applicants Shawn Harding s366h815@ku.edu
Salary Starting at $80,000
Anticipated Start Date Monday February 9, 2026
#J-18808-Ljbffr