Facilities Operations Leader | Hands-On Director

University of Wisconsin; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 67,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Wisconsin–Madison is seeking a Facilities Manager to lead building operations with hands-on troubleshooting and maintenance. The role requires coordinating preventive programs, safety compliance, and emergency response while overseeing a team of facilities staff.

This 100% FTE position emphasizes leadership, collaboration with researchers and campus partners, and a proactive approach to maintaining critical infrastructure.

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in facilities management or related trades.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholder groups in a complex environment.
• Familiarity with environmental health and safety, ADA accessibility, and fire/life safety.
• Hands-on work including troubleshooting, inspections and routine maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Minimizes institutional liability regarding regulatory compliance and environmental protection.
• Ensures staff performance meets university standards and expectations.
• Responds to facility emergencies and urgent issues outside normal hours.
• Prioritizes mechanical/electrical services and administers preventive maintenance.
• Coordinates or supervises emergency and routine maintenance campus-wide.
• Coaches and develops facilities staff, promoting teamwork and accountability.
• Maintains protection systems, power, and safety equipment per standards.
• Works with procurement on bid specs and vendor estimates for projects.
• Builds strong relationships with faculty, staff, researchers, and partners.

Skills

Facilities management

Regulatory compliance

Hands-on maintenance

Communication

Education

High School Diploma (Required)

Associates Degree (Preferred)

Job description

The University of Wisconsin–Madison is seeking a Facilities Manager to lead building operations with hands-on troubleshooting and maintenance. The role requires coordinating preventive programs, safety compliance, and emergency response while overseeing a team of facilities staff.

This 100% FTE position emphasizes leadership, collaboration with researchers and campus partners, and a proactive approach to maintaining critical infrastructure.