General Services Director

About the role

The General Services Department plays a critical role in supporting Durham’s quality of life and economic vitality by managing the City’s built environment through strategic planning, facilities operations, and capital project delivery. The General Services Director oversees a diverse range of services—from building design and construction to facilities maintenance, landscaping and urban forestry, cemeteries, real estate services, cultural and public art programs, and sustainability initiatives—that support the City’s physical assets.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations and long-range planning for the City's physical assets, including deferred maintenance and CIP.
• Provide executive oversight of the City’s partnership with Keep Durham Beautiful—an initiative that engages residents in volunteer-driven efforts to maintain clean, green, and welcoming community spaces—ensuring alignment, accountability, and shared outcomes.
• Lead 114 diverse projects ranging from revitalizing civic spaces to expanding the city’s cultural and public art footprint.
• Ensure City priorities are advanced through effective governance, policy development, and performance management.
• Manage a workforce of 124 employees with an operating budget of $21 million.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture, construction management, business/public administration, or a related field.
• Ten (10) years of progressively responsible leadership experience in one or more of the following: facilities/asset management, capital program delivery, real estate portfolio management, or public-sector infrastructure operations.
• Demonstrated experience managing large budgets, complex vendor/consultant contracts, and multi-disciplinary teams.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree (MPA, MBA, Engineering/Architecture, or related).
• Experience leading an enterprise-wide facilities or capital program in a growing city/county.
• Demonstrated success in reducing deferred maintenance, improving building performance/energy outcomes, and institutionalizing asset management practices.

Skills

Technical excellence as much as human connection.

Benefits

The anticipated hiring range for these positions is $145,602 – $232,962, depending on qualifications and experience. The City offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a comprehensive wellness program. The position includes residency requirements consistent with organizational policies and needs.

Pay

The anticipated hiring range for these positions is $145,602 – $232,962, depending on qualifications and experience.

Schedule

The anticipated hiring range for these positions is $145,602 – $232,962, depending on qualifications and experience.