Program Manager of Physical Plant Operations

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is led by Secretary Janet Stanek and comprises three divisions: Public Health, Environment, and Health Care Finance. This unique structure allows a holistic approach to improving and protecting the health and well-being of all Kansans. Verification of identity and employment eligibility to work in the United States is required by federal law. KDHE does not provide sponsorship for this position and participates in E-Verify.

About the role

This position has overall responsibility for review and approval of all new construction, remodeling, and renovation projects for Acute and Continuing Care facility types under the regulatory jurisdiction of the KDHE/Bureau of Facilities and Licensing. This includes reviewing and approving code footprints submitted for construction projects to meet the Facility Guidelines Institute (FGI) Guidelines according to current state licensure regulations. The role also involves inspecting facilities subject to the Life Safety Code survey and certification for Medicare/Medicaid, including Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICFs/IID), Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASC), inpatient Hospice facilities, Critical Access Hospitals (CAH), Psychiatric and General Hospitals. Responsibilities include validation surveys of accredited facilities, complaint investigations, and conducting comprehensive interviews with facility managers and staff to determine compliance with standards.

Responsibilities

• Document all observations thoroughly and accurately using applicable surveyor technology, indicating non-compliance where appropriate.
• Submit survey findings completely and accurately, consulting with Program Managers or the survey team leader as needed.
• Interpret and explain the intent of standards to facility personnel in a detailed, constructive, sensitive, and professional manner.
• Conduct onsite inspections to ensure compliance with International Building Code (IBC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) standards, and the Kansas Fire Prevention Code.
• Complete required job-related reports, including work time reports, travel logs, and vehicle logs in a timely manner.
• Attend and participate in job-related meetings and ongoing in-service/training programs as directed.
• Participate in and testify at legal hearings and/or courts of law as required.

Requirements

• Minimum of eight years of experience in facilities management or at least five years in a management position in engineering, facilities management, hazardous materials and waste management, emergency preparedness, biomedical equipment, and/or utility systems, as well as experience as the organization's Safety Officer.
• Completion of the CMS Basic Life Safety Code (BLSC) Training to establish and refine surveyor skills and understanding of the Life Safety Code (LSC) survey process.
• Knowledge of LSC regulations and associated CMS guidance and policy.
• Valid Driver's License—incumbent must maintain a valid driver's license when operating a state vehicle, private vehicle, or rental vehicle for state business.
• Current certification/licensure/registration in a field related to plant, technology, and safety management (e.g., Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM), Certified Healthcare Safety Professional (CHSP), Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC), Healthcare Environmental Manager (HEM), Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH), Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Professional Engineer (PE)), or ability to attain within one year of hire.
• High School diploma or GED.
• Valid Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate (required for all state employees).

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent education.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.
• Strong proofreading, editing, attention to detail, oral and written communication skills.
• Experience in report compilation.
• Five years of management experience in utility systems, waste management, emergency preparedness, biomedical equipment, engineering, or facilities management.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, mental, dental, and vision coverage.
• Sick and vacation leave.
• Work-Life Balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave.
• Paid State Holidays (designated by the Governor annually).
• Fitness Centers in select locations.
• Employee discounts with the STAR Program.
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs.

Pay

Hourly Pay Range: $41.53. Salary may vary depending on education, experience, or qualifications.

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (flexible schedules available). Full-time, regular position with benefits. Veterans' Preference Eligible.