Director, Facility Operations & Maintenance (Alberta)

Director, Facility Operations & Maintenance Job Title: Director, Facility Operations & Maintenance Role The Director, Facility Operations and Maintenance is a senior operational leader responsible for the safe, efficient, and well‑maintained physical environment of the University of Lethbridge. The role reports to the Associate Vice‑President (AVP), Facilities, and leads six direct reports and a team of approximately 95 staff. The Director oversees an operating and cost‑recovery budget of approximately $1.75 million and administers $4.2 million annually in Capital Maintenance and Renewal (CMR) grant funding. Operational Leadership – Provide direction to the Utilities, Caretaking, Building & Grounds Maintenance, Campus Mobility, Facilities Administration and Facilities Sustainability units, ensuring continuity of service, economy of scale, and minimal disruption to university programs. Managerial Decision‑Making and Financial Oversight – Establish and monitor performance measures, oversee unit budgets and CMR grant funding, and work with the AVP and Facilities Administration Manager on procurement of energy contracts. Planning and Infrastructure Renewal – Plan utility infrastructure, building systems renewals, and staffing across units; maintain a balanced maintenance program and participate in annual APPA facilities benchmarking. Project Management – Oversee special capital and operating projects with campus‑wide impact; coordinate technical and specialized services for project commissioning. The Ideal Candidate As the ideal candidate, you are an empowering, technically strong leader who brings deep knowledge of building systems and a genuine commitment to operational excellence. You are comfortable operating at both a strategic and hands‑on level, equally capable of navigating complex infrastructure decisions and building the trust of frontline staff. You are organized, solutions‑oriented, and skilled at balancing competing demands while maintaining high standards of safety, sustainability, and service. Why Join the University of Lethbridge? This is an opportunity to take on a substantive operational leadership role at a dynamic institution during a period of significant physical and organizational renewal. You will lead a skilled and dedicated team of approximately 95 staff and play a direct role in shaping the quality and sustainability of the campus environment that supports the University’s academic and research mission. As Director, you will be a key contributor to the Facilities leadership team and a steward of one of the University’s most essential functions. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of Lethbridge is committed to Accessibility, Belonging and Community and strives to best support its diverse campus community. We welcome candidates who self-identify as Black, Indigenous or a person of colour with lived experience and expertise in incorporating EDI practices into teaching and research. Joining a vibrant community at the University where we aspire to achieve equity and diversity in all areas, the successful candidate will be expected to show evidence of leadership and commitment to access and equity that promotes a collegial, collaborative and respectful working environment. If you need accommodations during the hiring process, please contact Human Resources at so that accommodations can be put in place. All private information received in relation to your request for support will be kept confidential, only information required to facilitate the accommodation will be shared with the selection committee. Position Qualifications A Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline; registration as a Qualified Engineer in good standing with APEGA is required. Candidates with equivalent combinations of relevant education and experience will be considered. A minimum of seven years of progressive, proven leadership experience in a facilities or operations environment; ten or more years is preferred. Preferred designations include PMP (Project Management Professional) and APPA Leadership in Educational Facilities. Strong knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and building systems, and a solid understanding of building construction standards and best practices. Demonstrated experience managing facilities‑related capital projects and budgets in excess of $1 million. Experience managing large teams in a unionized environment, including performance management, coaching, and employee engagement. Experience in supply and service contract negotiation, including energy procurement. Comprehensive understanding of sustainability best practices and a demonstrated commitment to environmental stewardship. Proven experience in strategic planning and change management. Demonstrated commitment to health and safety compliance, accessibility legislation, and universal design principles. Demonstrated commitment to advancing accessibility, belonging, and community in the workplace. Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust across diverse teams and institutional partners. Skills and Attributes An empowering and approachable leader who motivates teams and builds a positive, engaged workplace culture. Technically grounded, with sound judgment and a practical, solutions‑focused mindset. Able to operate strategically and at a systems level while remaining accessible and hands‑on when needed. Transparent and principled, with a commitment to clear communication and accountable decision‑making. Adaptable and resilient, able to manage competing demands and operational challenges with calm and focus. Skilled in working with diverse populations, with a demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion. Starting Salary Range (at 1.0 FTE) $100,294.64 – $126,170.38 annually Full Salary Range (at 1.0 FTE) $100,294.64 – $152,046.13 annually (APO – Grade 6) Supplemental Questions Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*). #J-18808-Ljbffr Apply on Kit Job: kitjob.ca/job/2pi7pm