Jobs

Watkinson School, an independent day school serving students in grades 6-PG, offering inventive teaching to Hartford and surrounding communities since 1881, seeks a full-time Facilities Director. Applicants must possess enthusiasm for working in a dynamic environment, be a strong team player and possess a passion for overseeing and caring for a busy and vibrant campus with 6 education-centered buildings, 4 homes, 2 sports fields, tennis courts and 40+ acres of land. The Facilities Director will report to a new CFOO.  This role carries responsibilities for both managing significant vendor partnerships and employee teams that, together, ensure the health, safety and regular operations of Watkinson’s physical plant.

This position provides an ideal opportunity for a savvy facilities expert with demonstrated experience and knowledge of building systems, budgeting and expense management, contracting, campus safety and compliance. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of related work experience, preferably in a school environment

The Facilities Director will take on the following duties:

• Management of the physical operation of the building and grounds to ensure that the campus is safe, clean and in top operating condition
• Establishment and oversight of a system to proactively maintain the campus, prevent deferred maintenance and avert operations disruptions
• Oversight and assistance in the day to day repairs to the facility
• Provide supervision and support to the Housekeeping supervisor and staff, Receptionist, Security and Plant Manager
• Provision of facilities support for all campus events
• Functioning as a general contractor when outside vendors are contracted
• Responsibility for emergency systems, emergency planning and practice and oversight and planning for all drills and training for adults and students
• Development and management of the School’s annual facilities budgets and long-range capital facilities budget
• Management of safe and compliant operations of all school vehicles and vetting and administrative practices for all school drivers

The Facilities Director will possess and utilize the following skills and dispositions:

• Strong organizational, communication and leadership skills
• Knowledge of project management and scheduling and contractor management
• Experience with Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• Working knowledge of all construction trades
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather and in environments that may include dirt, dust, noise, fumes and other conditions which occur when working with machinery and building systems
• Willingness to work long and flexible hours- including evenings/weekends, when needed
• A belief in and commitment to Watkinson’s mission and vision
• A sense of humor and enthusiasm for the work we do each day

Watkinson is an equal-opportunity employer and an open and affirming community that seeks candidates of diverse backgrounds. This 12-month position will start in July 2023. Interested candidates should send a cover letter, resume, and three references to facilitiesposition@watkinson.org. The position will remain open until it is filled.