Head of Facilities Management (AD / Director level)
Direct Hire
Comp: 120-160k
About the Role
A clinical-stage biotech is searching for a senior facilities and EH&S leader to own the physical environment where our scientists work. You will be accountable for the planning, operation, safety, and compliance of our laboratory and office sites, enabling the science to move forward without interruption. We want a hands‑on strategic thinker who has thrived in the pace and complexity of a biotech or pharmaceutical organization.
What You’ll Do
- Long‑Range Planning: Create and drive multi‑year plans for space, capital investment, and infrastructure so our sites scale alongside the company and its research priorities.
- Lead the Team: Manage, coach, and grow the facilities and lab operations group, building a service‑minded, proactive culture that scientists and administrative staff can rely on.
- Keep Buildings Running: Take ownership of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and specialized lab equipment. Run preventative maintenance programs, handle repairs, and manage service vendors to limit downtime.
- Own EH&S: Build and lead a company‑wide EH&S program that meets federal, state, and local requirements (including OSHA, EPA, and Cal/OSHA) and reinforces safe behavior day to day.
- Safety Programs & Regulatory Readiness: Direct programs covering chemical hygiene, biosafety, hazard communication, injury and illness prevention, and emergency response. Keep permits, licenses, and filings current, and act as the lead contact during regulatory inspections.
- Training, Audits & Incidents: Run employee safety training, perform routine facility audits, investigate and document incidents, and ensure corrective actions stick.
- Deliver Projects: Lead lab reconfigurations, equipment installs, construction, and expansions from start to finish, coordinating teams, schedules, and budgets.
- Budgets & Vendors: Build and manage operating and capital budgets, and negotiate agreements with vendors and contractors that balance cost and quality.
What You Bring
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Facilities Management, or a related science, or comparable experience
- 15+ years of increasing responsibility in facilities management within biotech or pharma
- 5+ years leading facilities and/or EH&S staff
- Working knowledge of R&D lab environments, including vivariums, BSL-2 labs, and specialized scientific equipment infrastructure
- Strong command of EH&S regulations and best practices; certifications such as CSP or CHMM are a plus
- Track record delivering large capital projects such as lab build‑outs, renovations, and equipment installations
- Solid financial skills, including ownership of multi‑million dollar operating and capital budgets
- Outstanding leadership and communication skills, with the ability to partner effectively across every level of the organization