New Jersey Regional Director, Facilities Management & Operations

Uncommon Schools; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 127,800 - 159,700; Full time

Job summary

Uncommon Schools, Newark, NJ, is seeking a Facilities Leader to manage a regional portfolio of buildings. You will direct maintenance, oversee HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and security systems, and coordinate emergency responses across campuses.

You will develop budgets, supervise procurement, and ensure regulatory compliance. A Bachelor's degree and 7+ years in related fields are expected, with 24/7 availability for emergencies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• 7+ years in architecture, construction, project management, or facility management.
• Familiarity with key building systems (HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing).
• Knowledge of OSHA and Life Safety codes.

Responsibilities

• Lead facilities team to implement maintenance and preventive plans.
• Oversee repair and operation of building systems including fire/life safety and security systems.
• Develop and manage emergency response processes and communications.
• Coordinate government inspections and ensure regulatory compliance.

Skills

BMS proficiency

Microsoft Office

Project management

Communication skills

Multitasking & prioritization

Emergency response readiness

Interpersonal skills

Vehicle for campus travel

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

About Uncommon Schools

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high‑performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K‑12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership.

Job Description

Building Systems & Maintenance

• Develop comprehensive knowledge of the region's building portfolio and lead the facilities team in executing best‑in‑class maintenance and preventive maintenance plans
• Manage the repair, maintenance, and continuous operation of all building systems including fire/life safety, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, lighting controls, digital systems (fire alarm, card access, CCTV security), and elevator controls
• Develop and oversee systems to respond quickly to all facility emergencies
• Coordinate and document all required governmental inspections; ensure buildings comply with local, state, and federal regulations; maintain required documentation on file

Team Leadership & Communication

• Own and monitor a work‑ticket system that prioritizes and responds to all requests from school operations staff; assign tickets appropriately to facilities team members
• Develop transparent reporting systems of ticket response, keeping all stakeholders informed
• Establish and lead regular meetings with school operations staff, maintaining clear agendas, notes, and follow‑up actions
• Stay informed of facilities challenges across the region and coordinate responses as needed
• Institute clear calendars and expectations for all facility‑related workstreams, including summer and break activities

Financial Management & Procurement

• Develop annual maintenance and operating budgets for all buildings in the region based on historical and projected facility needs; monitor spend to ensure it remains within budget
• Manage the work of the accounts payable associate with respect to Purchase Order creation and invoice approval
• Ensure compliance with New Jersey procurement guidelines
• Establish regular financial reporting practices and identify financial risks for escalation
• Develop and oversee bid processes for maintenance contracts; build a network of compliant vendors

Capital Projects & Planning

• Develop an ongoing list of needed capital projects across the region
• Work with the Home Office Real Estate and Facilities team to compile an annual prioritized list of capital projects
• Coordinate site visits with school directors of operations to understand facility needs and communicate planned repair work
• Manage communications related to capital projects with Real Estate and Facilities and school operations teams

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree
• 7+ years of progressive experience in architecture, construction, construction project management, facility management, or a related field
• Familiarity with key building systems (HVAC, electrical, mechanical, plumbing)
• Knowledge of OSHA and Life Safety codes
• Computer skills to operate Building Management Systems (BMS); proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to speak and write clearly and adjust messaging for different audiences
• Ability to build new systems, multitask, set and drive priorities, and monitor progress toward goals
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Exceptional strategic, analytical, and critical thinking skills
• Availability to address emergencies as they arise (24/7 as needed)
• Ownership of a personal vehicle for travel between campuses
• Ability to pass a criminal record history check from the Department of Education

Preferred

• Master's degree, preferably in architecture, planning, or a related field
• New Jersey low‑pressure black seal boiler, HVAC, or other relevant certifications, training, or licenses
• Experience with data‑driven decision‑making and financial forecasting

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent.

Compensation

The full compensation range for this role is $127,800‑$159,700. Typically, new hires who fully meet all qualifications listed in the job description will start at $135,700. Starting compensation below this reflects candidates with less experience or qualifications. Offers near the top end of the range are reserved for candidates who significantly exceed the qualifications, bringing extensive experience and specialized expertise beyond what is listed.

Compensation determinations consider relevant professional experience and tenure with Uncommon Schools. Additionally, because we value internal growth and tenure, current staff members are not subject to salary caps within this range.

Benefits Highlights

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits
• Pre‑tax flexible spending, dependent care, and health saving accounts

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve— with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal‑opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email [e-mail].