LAWRENCE UNIVERSITY

Position Description & Qualifications

Reports to: Assistant Vice President of Facilities Operations

Location: Lawrence University, Facilities Operations

Primary Objective:

The Assistant Director of Facilities Trades, Occupational and Environmental Safety, is responsible for overseeing a crew of approximately 12 skilled trades technicians, including Electricians, HVAC technicians, Plumbers, and Maintenance Technicians, This role involves managing work, ensuring excellent service to customers, and balancing multiple budgets. Manages the occupational health program and environmental permits within for Grounds, Trades, and Custodial services.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Managing Skilled Trades Personnel: Lead, motivate, and maximize the efficiency of the trades department. Coordinate with University Staff on projects and maintenance. Assign work, adjust crew size and validate task time for trades personnel, including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, painters, HVAC technicians, and locksmiths. Ensure that all trades staff are adequately trained and equipped to perform their duties efficiently.
2. Supervisory Responsibilities: Hire, train and supervise trades personnel. Perform annual performance evaluations. Manage employee schedules, coordinate work sequence and establish deadlines for projects. Provide constructive feedback and support for improvement as needed.
3. Compliance and Regulations: Ensure that all trades staff are aware of and comply with the University rules, regulations, policies and adhere to Federal, State and local safety regulations.
4. Safety Management: Oversee and direct the Facilities Department’s occupational and environmental health and safety programs. Serve as a subject matter expert on safety issues as part of the Crisis Management team. Coordinate with University Departments on safety issues.
5. Environmental Management: Coordinate state environmental Air Emissions, Underground Tank and Hazardous Waste Permits. Manage hazardous waste programs, collection points, and disposal. Direct disposal of universal waste steams including medical waste. Coordinate with University on SDS management.
6. Budget Management: Prepare and execute Facilities Capital and operating budget. Evaluate and prioritize contractor work to effectively support the University and maintain budget control
7. Additional Responsibilities: Undertake any other duties as assigned, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of facilities operations within the university.

Knowledge & Skills:

1. Possess strong interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with personnel at all levels, as well as represent the university to external stakeholders such as vendors, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
2. Exhibit excellent organizational and time management skills. Capable of prioritizing tasks, working independently or in teams, and effectively managing workflow to ensure completion of projects, assignments, and responsibilities.
3. Build and maintain solid working relationships with personnel across the diverse campus community, fostering collaboration and cooperation.
4. Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and active listening abilities to understand and address safety-related issues effectively.
5. Exhibit the ability to make responsible decisions in stressful and fast-paced environments, ensuring the safety and well-being of campus personnel and facilities.
6. Knowledge of or willingness to learn life safety codes and systems, including fire safety protocols and procedures.
7. Understanding of emergency management and planning principles. Possess or willingness to obtain FEMA certification.
8. Knowledge of and ability to learn state, local, OSHA, and WHOPRS regulations related to hazardous materials and safety programs.
9. Computer Proficiency such as Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) for data analysis, reporting, communication, and presentations.

Required Qualifications:

1. Minimum 5 years working experience in multiple trades.
2. Undergraduate degree in Environmental Health & Safety or equivalent experience preferred.
3. Successful completion of criminal and driving background check. Pre-employment physical and pre-work screening.
4. Must have valid Driver’s License.