Assistant Director of Facilities and Environmental Safety

Closing Date:

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that's redefining higher education. We're on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. We're committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas's rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state's varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Required Education and/or Work Experience:

Bachelor's degree in construction management, Engineering, Business Administration or related field and 5 years of progressively responsible experience in facilities management, including 3 years of supervisory experience. Or associate's degree or vocational/trade certification preferred and all required experience and 7 years of progressively responsible experience in facilities management, including 5 years of supervisory experience. Working knowledge of mechanical, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and building automation systems. Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for these requirements Valid driver's license and ability to respond to emergency calls after hours.

Preferred Education and/or Work Experience:

Experience working in a higher education or public institution environment. Familiarity with Team Dynamix or Service Now, asset management systems, Workday. OSHA 30 certification, EPA certification, or equivalent safety credentials. Understanding of APPA maintenance standards and space responsibility guidelines.

Summary of Job Duties:

Leadership & Supervision

* Provide direct oversight of Maintenance Manager, Project Manager, Operations & Safety Manager, contractors, and vendors.

* Foster a high-performance culture focused on proactive maintenance, safety, accountability, and teamwork.

* Represent the department in the multi-departmental planning meetings in a leadership capacity campus-wide

Facilities Operations

* Manage day-to-day operations including preventive maintenance, repairs, work orders, and facility service requests using Team Dynamix platform.

* Oversee building systems including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, lighting, and energy controls.

* Conduct inspections of campus buildings, systems, and grounds to ensure safety, performance, and cleanliness.

Planning & Strategic Oversight

* Assist in developing and executing long-range maintenance plans to reduce deferred maintenance and extend the lifecycle of assets.

* Participate in planning and oversight of capital improvement projects, renovations, and equipment upgrades.

* Review, analyze, and report on utility usage, operational performance, and service metrics.

Vendor & Budget Management

* Coordinate and supervise contracted service providers for maintenance, custodial, landscaping, pest control, and specialty services.

* Provide input on annual and long-range budget planning for operations and capital needs.

* Track expenditures, manage vendor invoicing, and ensure fiscal accountability.

Communication & Compliance

* Respond to campus community inquiries and ensure clear communication about maintenance activities and service impacts.

* Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, fire and life safety codes, and environmental health standards.

* Maintain documentation for inspections, equipment logs, and regulatory reporting.

Staff Development & Morale

* Train, mentor, and evaluate team members to support professional growth and succession planning.

* Promote a culture of collaboration, service excellence, and recognition within the facilities team.

* Implement initiatives to improve staff engagement and retention.

* Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates.

* Requires consistent on-time attendance.

* Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

* Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead cross-functional teams.

* Skilled in reading construction plans, technical manuals, and safety regulations.

* Ability to manage complex budgets, projects, and maintenance schedules.

* Strong written and verbal communication skills.

* Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and facilities-related software platforms.

* Ability to plan strategically, solve problems, and drive continuous improvement.

Additional Information:

Working Relationships: this position requires strong relationships with each departments across campus and vendors

List Employees Supervised: Oversight of Maintenance Manager, Operations & Safety Manager, Project Manager

Special Job Dimensions: Work performed primarily in an office setting. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly exhibits digital dexterity when entering data into computer. The employee frequently sits for extended periods of time, and occasionally stands and walks. Vision demands include close, relatively detailed vision when focusing on a computer screen. Employee regularly talks and hears. Employee occasionally lifts items up to 50 pounds. Routine work schedule Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm with occasional overtime and travel required

Background Check Requirements. Criminal Background Check and Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) Check.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, and/or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Sitehttps://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.