Director of Physical Plant Position Available In Bradley, Tennessee

Director of Physical Plant
Lee University
in Cleveland, TN
Apply Now

Type:

Full-Time

Posted:

05/21/2025

Category:

Facilities Management What We’re Looking For:

The Lee University Department of Business and Finance is looking for a Director of Physical Plant. The Director serves as a mission-aligned leader responsible for the stewardship, maintenance, and ongoing care of the University’s buildings, grounds, and physical infrastructure. In support of the University’s Christ-centered mission and values, the Director provides strategic and operational oversight of all facilities functions—including maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and small-scale renovations—ensuring the campus remains a safe, welcoming, and well-maintained environment for learning, worship, service, and community engagement. This position requires a collaborative leader who models integrity, service, and stewardship in managing physical resources and leading a diverse facilities team in a manner consistent with the institution’s Christian values.

What You Will Do:

Mission-Focused Leadership & Operations Management
Provide visionary leadership and hands-on oversight of campus facilities operations, including building maintenance, custodial services, and grounds care.
Foster a culture of service, stewardship, and excellence within the Physical Plant team that reflects the institution’s faith-based mission.
Campus Planning & Facilities Renewal
Direct the planning and execution of in-house renovations, repairs, and deferred maintenance projects.
Collaborate with external contractors and vendors, ensuring project alignment with institutional goals, campus aesthetics, and budget parameters.
Contribute to campus master planning efforts and support capital project implementation as needed.
Event Support & Community Collaboration
Coordinate facilities services to support campus events, chapel services, academic functions, and student life activities.
Partner with departments across campus to ensure facilities support enhances the University’s mission and outreach.
Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure adherence to all local, state, and federal regulations, including fire safety, OSHA, ADA, environmental, and health standards.
Promote a strong safety culture through regular training, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness initiatives.
Strategic Budget & Resource Management
Develop and manage the Physical Plant’s annual operating and maintenance budget with a focus on wise stewardship of University resources.
Implement systems for preventive maintenance and long-term asset planning to optimize the life cycle of University facilities.
Personnel Development & Team Leadership
Hire, supervise, and mentor a diverse team of skilled facilities staff, fostering professional development and shared purpose.
Encourage a workplace culture marked by mutual respect, teamwork, accountability, and spiritual growth.
Policy Implementation & Sustainability
Establish and enforce operational policies and procedures that promote efficiency, safety, and environmental stewardship.
Explore and implement sustainable practices that support the University’s commitment to resource responsibility.
Reporting & Institutional Support
Provide regular briefings and reports to the Vice President for Business and Finance regarding facilities operations, ongoing projects, and strategic needs.
Actively support the University’s mission by aligning departmental goals with the broader vision and values of Christian higher education.
All other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Vice President of Business & Finance.

What You Can Expect:

As part of the Lee family, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, time off, tuition assistance, and automatic retirement contributions. Lee has a comprehensive benefits plan that supports you and your family’s wellbeing and allows you to be a part of the life of a vibrant and active college campus.

What You Should Know:

Safely move heavy items in excess of 50 pounds occasionally.
Required to perform 24/7 on-call duties, including responding to emergencies, after-hours requests, and urgent operational needs as necessary.
This position operates University vehicles and requires an active Driver’s License in good standing.
A background check will be required after a conditional job offer is made.

Skill & Knowledge Requirements:

Demonstrated leadership in facilities operations within a higher education or mission-driven organization
Demonstrated expertise in managing significant capital projects, operational budgets, physical plant systems, project management, regulatory compliance, and safety standards
A service-oriented leadership style marked by integrity, humility, and a commitment to Christian values
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
Proven ability to engage diverse stakeholder groups, manage complex projects, and ensure alignment with institutional mission and values
Ability to work collaboratively with diverse campus stakeholders and serve as a faithful steward of institutional resources

Education & Experience:

A Bachelor’s degree in related fields of Facilities Management, Engineering, Business Administration is required. Advanced degrees in related fields are preferred
Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in facilities management
Professional certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (IFMA), Facility Maintenance Professional (IFMA), or Master Facility Executive (BOMI International) preferred Explore & Engage
Learn more about Lee and our mission. Also, explore our great hometown of Cleveland and the many opportunities to engage locally. To be a part of the most compelling mission in higher education, submit a resume and cover letter to Janell Satterfield at jsatterfield@leeuniversity.edu. Apply Now