Building & Operations Manager

Brown University; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University is seeking a Building & Operations Manager to oversee daily facilities and research operations for the Physical Sciences, serving as the primary representative on facilities, safety, security, and emergency matters.

The role partners with Facilities Management to address maintenance, plan long-term projects, and support office moves and lab transitions, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient environments on campus in Providence, RI.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree plus 3–5 years of related admin and building mgmt experience.
• RI state licensure preferred for building trades.
• Experience managing research labs in higher education settings preferred.
• Knowledge of facility operations, including lab safety, security, and compliance.
• Strong admin/organizational skills; ability to handle multiple priorities.
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365, Google Suite, Adobe, Zoom, Smartsheet.
• Ability to read building construction documents and blueprints.
• Experience with building automation systems (JCI Metasys) preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily facilities and research operations for the Physical Sciences.
• Coordinate with Facilities Management to address maintenance and project execution.
• Support office moves, space setups, and faculty/staff transitions.
• Promote safety/compliance by coordinating with EHS, DPSEM, and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with departments to plan long-term facilities needs.

Skills

Facilities management

Project coordination

Safety compliance

Communication

Vendor relations

Budget tracking

Education

Bachelor’s degree plus 3–5 years facilities/building mgmt experience

RI state building trade licensure preferred

Experience managing research labs in higher ed

Knowledge of lab safety, security, compliance

Strong administrative/organizational skills

Analytical/problem-solving skills

Excellent interpersonal/written communication

Ability to prioritize in fast-paced env

Collaborative/diplomatic with diverse teams

Customer service orientation and confidentiality

Proficiency in Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Adobe, Zoom, Smartsheet

Ability to read construction docs/blueprints

Experience with building automation systems (JCI Metasys)

Tools

JCI Metasys

Bluebeam Revu

Smartsheet

Microsoft 365

Google Workspace

Adobe Acrobat

Zoom

Job description

Building & Operations Manager

Brown University

Job Description

The Building & Operations Manager oversees daily facilities and research operations for the Physical Sciences, serving as the primary representative for the laboratory-based Physical Sciences on all facilities, safety, security, and emergency-related matters. This role works closely with academic departments and campus operational units, primarily Facilities Management (FM), to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient instructional and research environments.

The Building & Operations Manager maintains a comprehensive understanding of building and laboratory mechanical systems and partners proactively with FM to address maintenance and operational needs. The position collaborates with the Assistant Director of Academic Facilities Operations on long-term planning and with FM to ensure timely and effective repair, maintenance, and project execution. In addition to managing daily facilities operations, the Building & Operations Manager supports office moves, space setups, and faculty and staff transitions.

The incumbent also plays a key role in promoting safety and compliance by coordinating with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), the Department of Public Safety and Emergency Management (DPSEM), and departmental stakeholders.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree plus 3-5 years of related administrative and building management experience, or equivalent combination of education, and/or work experience.
• RI State building trade licensure preferred.
• Experience managing research labs in a higher education setting preferred.
• Knowledge of research and instructional facility operations, including laboratory safety, security, and compliance standards.
• Strong administrative and organizational skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Proficient analytical and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to interact effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage workload in a fast-paced, multi-task environment while maintaining accuracy and precision.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively and diplomatically with individuals from diverse backgrounds and roles.
• Strong customer service orientation with a commitment to confidentiality and professionalism.
• High level of proficiency in, or a willingness to learn, Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Suites (Docs, Sheets, Forms, Calendar, etc.), Adobe and Zoom, Bluebeam Revu and Smartsheet applications.
• Ability to read and understand building construction documents and blueprints.
• Experience with computer-based building automation systems (JCI Metasys) preferred.

Additional physical demands and working conditions

• EHS training is required annually for this position.
• This position is fully on-site.

Why Brown?

Brown University is a leading research university that is distinct for its student‑centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty, and staff are driven by the idea that their work will impact the world.

Brown University offers flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break, and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts, and more. Read more about the benefits of working at Brown here.

Benefits of Working at Brown

Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown University.

* Applicants must submit a cover letter and CV/resume.*

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Still Have Questions? If you have any questions you may contact [e-mail].

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.