Executive Director - Physical Plant

Job Summary

This is a full-time, fiscal year position reporting to the Chief of Administrative Services. The Executive Director of Physical Plant provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of the College’s facilities, including maintenance, custodial services, grounds, utilities, and construction projects across multiple campus sites. This role ensures that campus facilities and infrastructure are maintained in a safe, efficient, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing manner that supports the College’s mission and enhances the student, faculty, staff, and community experience.

Job Duties

• Provide vision, leadership, and direction for all areas of the Physical Plant, including custodial, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, grounds, and general maintenance.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate operational and strategic maintenance plans, goals, and performance metrics to ensure effective, efficient, and cost-conscious delivery of services.
• Oversee the planning, budgeting, and execution of facilities maintenance, repairs, renovations, and new construction projects.
• Prepare and manage annual operating and capital budgets, ensuring compliance with institutional and state requirements.
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate Physical Plant staff to promote a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing work environment.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local codes, regulations, and safety standards (including OSHA, EPA, fire safety, and accessibility requirements).
• Develop and manage preventive and predictive maintenance programs for campus infrastructure and energy systems.
• Lead sustainability initiatives, including energy management, water conservation, waste reduction, and green building practices.
• Advise senior leadership on institutional policies and procedures related to physical resources and capital planning.
• Represent the Physical Plant on college committees and serve as a liaison to external partners, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, facilities management, construction management, or a related technical discipline; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in facilities management, engineering, or building operations.
• Minimum of three (3) years of supervisory or administrative leadership experience.
• Successful completion of a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in facilities management (e.g., CFM, FMP, IFMA, APPA).
• Experience with higher education or large, multi-site institutional facilities.
• Demonstrated experience leading sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Knowledge of and experience with HVAC, plumbing, electrical, fire alarm, and energy management systems.
• Demonstrated knowledge of federal, state, and local statutes, codes, and regulations related to building operations, safety, and construction.
• Proven ability to prepare bid specifications, manage contracts, and oversee service providers.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate teams, manage change, and foster a culture of accountability and safety.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
• Commitment to sustainability and continuous improvement in facilities operations.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

• This position requires on-site presence at campus locations and the ability to respond to facilities emergencies outside of normal business hours.
• Duties may involve exposure to construction sites, mechanical equipment, and varying weather conditions.

A Summary Of Our Benefits Can Be Found Below

Can be found here

Contact Information

To be considered for the position, the following items must be uploaded:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Unofficial Transcripts

Candidates who are called for an interview must notify Human Resources in writing at least five (5) days in advance of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Nondiscrimination Policy

The TBR does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, or national origin, sex, disability, age, status as a protected veteran or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations and by Tennessee Board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies: LeVetta Hudson, Vice President of People & Culture, myhr@southwest.tn.edu, 737 Union Ave, Memphis, TN 38103, 901-333-5000. See the full non-discrimination policy.