Associate Director, Residence Facilities

McMaster University; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in Ontario seeks an experienced Associate Director for Residence Facilities. This leader will oversee strategic planning and daily operations for residence facilities, manage significant budgets, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Candidates need a degree in a related field and at least 10 years of experience, including substantial leadership roles. Strong expertise in capital planning and stakeholder engagement is essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in facilities management including 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Strong working knowledge of Ontario Building Code, Fire Code, and Plumbing regulations.
• Proven expertise in capital planning and project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning and day-to-day execution of residence facility functions.
• Oversee maintenance, custodial services, furnishings, security systems, and infrastructure renewal.
• Direct planning and execution of capital investments, including upcoming projects.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Communication

Budgeting

Stakeholder Engagement

Education

University degree in Engineering, Architecture, or Facilities Management

Tools

CMMS (e.g., StarRez)

Microsoft Office

Job description

• Occasional weekends andevenings +flexibility in schedule is required
• University degree in Engineering, Architecture, Facilities Management, or a related field.
• Professional certification (e.g., PMP, L6S) is an asset.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in facilities management, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role within a complex institutional environment.

Job Description :

Housing and Conference Services (HCS) is seeking a visionary and experienced leader to join our team as Associate Director, Residence Facilities. This is a pivotal opportunity for a strategic facilities professional who thrives in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment and is passionate about enhancing the student experience through innovative infrastructure and operational excellence.

In this role, you will lead the strategic planning and day-to-day execution of all residence facility functions, including maintenance, custodial services, furnishings, security systems, and infrastructure renewal. You will oversee a diverse portfolio of residence spaces spanning 15 buildings (totaling 2.7 million sq. ft.) and play a key leadership role in the development of a new residence building and the implementation of a long-term capital renewal strategy.

This position is ideal for a collaborative and forward-thinking leader who can balance operational excellence with long-term vision ensuring McMaster’s residence facilities remain competitive, sustainable, and ready to meet the evolving needs of our campus community.

HCS is designated as an ancillary support team that operates continuously, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. As such, this position requires a high level of flexibility to accommodate a rotating or variable schedule.

Key Accountabilities :

• Strategic Leadership, Operations & Administration : Lead the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of residence facilities. This includes developing long-term infrastructure plans, aligning operations with institutional goals, and overseeing custodial and maintenance services. The role ensures high-quality service delivery in a 24 / 7 residential environment. You will be responsible for integrating innovative technologies and sustainability practices into operations. This role will manage a facilities-related operating budget of approximately $38 million, with an oversight of capital budgets for major projects. Ensure cost-effective procurement, vendor management, and financial planning.
• Capital Planning & Project Oversight : Direct the planning and execution of capital investments, including the upcoming Spring 2026 residence project. Work closely with our Facility Services partners to scope, fund, and implement infrastructure projects that enhance student experience and meet institutional standards for accessibility, energy efficiency, and deferred maintenance.
• Risk & Infrastructure Management : Ensure all residence facilities comply with building codes, safety regulations, and environmental standards. Lead emergency preparedness, business continuity planning, and risk mitigation strategies. In collaboration with the Managers, provide leadership to the HCS Joint Health and Safety Committee and coordinate safety audits and preventative maintenance programs. Lead the creation and implementation of policies and procedures related to infrastructure, safety, and service delivery. Ensure compliance with institutional, provincial, and federal regulations, and manage sensitive information and reporting requirements.
• People Leadership & Workforce Development : Coach and lead a diverse team, including two direct managers and over 100 staff and student employees. You will foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement. Provide impactful coaching, manage unionized personnel in accordance with collective agreements, and implement succession planning and training initiatives.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Institutional Collaboration : Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including Facility Services, IT Services, EOHSS, contractors, and regulatory bodies. Represent HCS in university-wide planning initiatives and ensure alignment with broader institutional strategies.

Qualifications & Experience :

• University degree in Engineering, Architecture, Facilities Management, or a related field.
• Professional certification (e.g., PMP, L6S) is an asset.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in facilities management, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role within a complex institutional environment.
• Proven expertise in capital planning, project delivery, and operational leadership across multiple teams or portfolios.
• Strong working knowledge of Ontario Building Code, Fire Code, Plumbing and Electrical Codes, and regulations from the Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Environment, and TSSA.
• Demonstrated experience in building maintenance, renovations, and skilled trades (electrical, structural, architectural, mechanical).
• Strategic thinker with a track record of managing complex, non-standard problems and implementing innovative, data-informed solutions.
• Experienced in reading and interpreting architectural blueprints, plans, and technical specifications.
• Deep understanding of building systems, sustainability practices, and regulatory compliance.
• Proficient in budgeting, financial analysis, job costing, and reporting on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Knowledgeable in collective agreement administration and labour relations in a unionized environment.
• Competent in CMMS (e.g., StarRez), Microsoft Office, and other facilities management systems.
• Strong leadership, supervisory, and team-building skills; fosters a culture of accountability, service excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, stakeholder engagement, and conflict resolution skills.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, 24 / 7 operational environment.

How To Apply :

To apply for this job, please submit your application.