Assistant Vice President of Operations

University at Buffalo; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 140,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

University at Buffalo is hiring an Assistant Vice President of Operations to oversee repair, maintenance, and operational management of its campus facilities across three campuses. The role ensures regulatory compliance, reliability of infrastructure, and continuous campus operations, with responsibility for a large unionized workforce and a substantial operating budget.

The position requires on-site presence, a bachelor’s degree in engineering, facilities management, or business, and 10+ years

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, facilities management, or business required.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership in facilities operations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CMMS for maintenance management.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage skilled trades, utilities, grounds, fleet, warehouse, customer service, and custodial services across three campuses.
• Develop and implement operations strategies aligned with university goals and research needs.
• Manage an operating budget of about $45 million, including payroll and maintenance expenses.
• Ensure compliance with codes, regulations, and safety standards; oversee emergency response readiness and 24/7 operations.

Skills

Microsoft Office

CMMS

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, facilities management, or business

Job description

University at Buffalo is hiring an Assistant Vice President of Operations. This role leads and oversees the repair, maintenance, and operational management of the university’s extensive physical facilities across three campuses, ensuring regulatory compliance, infrastructure reliability, and continuous campus operations. The position manages a large unionized workforce and a substantial operating budget, and provides strategic leadership aligned with institutional priorities.

Highlights

• Lead and manage skilled trades, utilities, grounds, fleet, warehouse, customer service, and custodial services across three campuses.
• Develop and implement operations strategies aligned with university goals and research needs.
• Manage an operating budget of approximately $45 million, including payroll and maintenance expenses.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable codes, regulations, and safety standards.
• Oversee emergency response readiness and maintain 24/7 operational coverage.
• Utilize CMMS for maintenance management and reporting; develop KPIs and conduct root cause analysis.
• Promote employee development, manage union relations, and enforce collective bargaining agreements.
• Minimum qualifications include a bachelor's degree in engineering, facilities management, or business, 10+ years of progressive leadership in facilities operations, and proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Preferred qualifications include experience in higher education facilities, facilities management certifications, and advanced degrees in engineering or related fields.
• The position requires on-site presence, physical ability to access various facilities, a valid driver’s license, and passing a background check.