Director of Facilities & Operations

Englewood, New Jersey, The Director of Facilities Operations is responsible for overseeing the maintenance and long-range facilities planning of The Elisabeth Morrow School campus, including facilities and grounds along with custodial services and security functions. The Director of Facilities reports to the Chief Financial and Operating Officer. The DF&O provides strategic and operational leadership for the physical plant, facilities, campus services, and day-to-day operations of the Elisabeth Morrow School in a manner that will enhance and maintain the current aesthetic. Responsibilities include all buildings and improvements, grounds and plantings, utilities and mechanical/electrical systems, parking and roadways, equipment and vehicles. The Director will provide operational, logistical, and hands-on support to the School in all matters relating to the maintenance and operation of the physical plant. The Director will also be responsible for the safety and security of all students and staff. The Director serves as a key member of the School’s administrative leadership team and is expected to bring strong operational judgment, financial discipline, project management skills, and a highly collaborative approach to the position, including interacting with the School’s Board of Trustees. Day-to-Day Responsibilities Facilities:

Provide strategic oversight of all campus buildings, grounds, infrastructure, and building systems. Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs and long-term facilities plans. Supervise, mentor, and evaluate the Facilities Supervisor, who coordinates daily facilities operations and supervises facilities personnel. Establish clear roles, responsibilities, performance expectations, and accountability measures. Provide leadership, direction, and professional development opportunities for the facilities team. Monitor expenditures, identify cost-saving opportunities, and recommend operational efficiencies. Evaluate vendor performance and ensure services meet established standards. Partner with CFOO to develop capital budgets and multi-year financial planning. Develop and manage the annual facilities and operations budget in collaboration with the CFOO. Monitor project expenditures and ensure work is completed within approved budgets and timelines. Maintain accurate records of building systems, warranties, inspections, and capital improvements. Ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal building, fire, environmental, and workplace safety requirements. Ensure buildings, classrooms, offices, athletic spaces, and common areas are maintained to the highest standards. Oversee custodial services, landscaping, snow removal, building maintenance, and campus readiness. Ensure facilities operations support the daily academic program and school events. Coordinate required inspections, certifications, and maintenance of life-safety systems. Identify potential facilities-related risks and recommend appropriate corrective measures. Maintain appropriate documentation of inspections, incidents, maintenance, and safety procedures. Manage relationships with external service providers, contractors, inspectors, and consultants. Coordinate facilities support for school-sponsored events, rentals, and special programs.

Operations:

Develop and manage short- and long-term capital improvement plans in collaboration with the CFOO and school leadership. Oversee facilities projects, renovations, repairs, and construction, including project scope, timelines, budgets, and quality control. Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants. Evaluate project proposals and provide recommendations regarding cost, feasibility, and operational impact. Negotiate and monitor service agreements to ensure quality, reliability, and value. Manage and oversee vendor contracts, service agreements, purchasing, and procurement. Establish operational procedures and service standards to ensure consistent and effective facilities support. Oversee space planning, classroom transitions, room configurations, and campus utilization. Partner with school leadership and the Security Director/Coordinator to support campus security and emergency preparedness. Participate in the school's safety and security planning, including emergency response procedures and required drills. Foster a service-oriented culture that is responsive to the needs of students, faculty, staff, and families. Maintain a professional, collaborative approach when addressing the needs of internal and external constituents.

Essential Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Construction Management, Business Administration, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered. Minimum of 7–10 years of progressively responsible experience in facilities management, building operations, or a related field. Demonstrated experience supervising staff and managing multiple operational priorities. Experience overseeing capital projects, construction, renovations, and vendor contracts. Strong knowledge of building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, and life-safety systems. Experience developing and managing operating and capital budgets. Knowledge of applicable building codes, regulatory requirements, and workplace safety standards. Strong organizational, communication, problem-solving, and project management skills. Ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on operational oversight. Experience in an independent school, educational institution, or similarly complex campus environment is preferred.

Incentives We aren’t just a school; we are a community. Feeling supported in your professional development and growth is one of the greatest benefits we offer our staff. Of course, we provide traditional benefits, too:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 403(b) Retirement Plan with Matching Contributions Life Insurance and Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance Short Term and Long Term Disability Coverage Tuition Remission for Employee’s Children (EMS’ School and/or Camps) Generous Vacation Policy

How to Apply This is a full-time position with a competitive benefits and compensation package for the region. The salary range is $130,000 to $150,000 per year. Salary commensurate with experience. Please email resume, cover letter, and writing samples to Minnie Saladin, Chief Financial & Operating Officer, at msaladin@elisabethmorrow.org . Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. Who We Are At The Elisabeth Morrow School, located 10 minutes from the George Washington Bridge in Englewood, N.J., children’s natural curiosity grows into a lifelong love of learning. Our exemplary curriculum features innovative programming in science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics (STEAM), a nationally renowned instrumental music program, social-emotional learning, and community-wide core values. Proud to be one of the most diverse independent schools in the country, we seek qualified candidates who will add to this legacy. We are committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all employees. The Elisabeth Morrow School is a member of the Independent School Admissions Association of Greater New York (ISAAGNY), the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools (NJAIS), and the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS). For more information, visit elisabethmorrow.org .