Associate Director, Residence Facilities

Job Description

Schedule

• Monday - Friday (35 hours per week)
• Occasional weekends and evenings; flexibility in schedule is required

Education Level

• University degree in Engineering, Architecture, Facilities Management, or a related field
• Professional certification (e.g., PMP, L6S) is an asset

Career Level

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in facilities management, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role within a complex institutional environment

Job Description:

Housing and Conference Services (HCS) is seeking a visionary and experienced leader to join our team as Associate Director, Residence Facilities. This is a pivotal opportunity for a strategic facilities professional who thrives in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment and is passionate about enhancing the student experience through innovative infrastructure and operational excellence.

In this role, you will lead the strategic planning and day-to-day execution of all residence facility functions, including maintenance, custodial services, furnishings, security systems, and infrastructure renewal. You will oversee a diverse portfolio of residence spaces spanning 15 buildings (totaling 2.7 million sq. ft.) and play a key leadership role in the development of a new residence building and the implementation of a long-term capital renewal strategy.

This position is ideal for a collaborative and forward-thinking leader who can balance operational excellence with long-term vision, ensuring McMaster’s residence facilities remain competitive, sustainable, and meet the evolving needs of our campus community.

HCS operates continuously, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. As such, this position requires a high level of flexibility to accommodate a rotating or variable schedule.

Key Accountabilities:

• Strategic Leadership, Operations & Administration: Lead the strategic direction and daily operations of residence facilities. Develop long-term infrastructure plans, align operations with institutional goals, and oversee custodial and maintenance services. Ensure high-quality service delivery in a 24/7 residential environment. Integrate innovative technologies and sustainability practices. Manage a facilities-related operating budget of approximately $38 million, including capital budgets for major projects. Ensure cost-effective procurement, vendor management, and financial planning.
• Capital Planning & Project Oversight: Oversee planning and execution of capital investments, including the Spring 2026 residence project. Collaborate with Facility Services to scope, fund, and implement infrastructure projects that enhance the student experience and meet standards for accessibility, energy efficiency, and deferred maintenance.
• Risk & Infrastructure Management: Ensure compliance with building codes, safety regulations, and environmental standards. Lead emergency preparedness, business continuity, and risk mitigation. Work with managers to lead safety audits and preventative maintenance. Develop and implement policies related to infrastructure, safety, and service delivery. Ensure compliance with regulations and manage reporting requirements.
• People Leadership & Workforce Development: Coach and lead a diverse team, including two managers and over 100 staff and student employees. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement. Manage unionized personnel per collective agreements and implement training and succession plans.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Institutional Collaboration: Build relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including Facility Services, IT, EOHSS, contractors, and regulatory bodies. Represent HCS in university planning initiatives and align with institutional strategies.

Qualifications & Experience:

• University degree in Engineering, Architecture, Facilities Management, or a related field
• Professional certification (e.g., PMP, L6S) is an asset
• Minimum 10 years of progressive facilities management experience, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role within a complex environment
• Proven expertise in capital planning, project delivery, and operational leadership
• Strong knowledge of Ontario Building Code, Fire Code, Plumbing and Electrical Codes, and regulations from relevant ministries
• Experience in building maintenance, renovations, and skilled trades (electrical, structural, architectural, mechanical)
• Strategic thinker with experience managing complex problems and implementing data-informed solutions
• Ability to interpret blueprints, plans, and technical specifications
• Deep understanding of building systems, sustainability, and compliance
• Proficient in budgeting, financial analysis, job costing, and KPI reporting
• Knowledge of collective agreements and labor relations
• Competent in CMMS (e.g., StarRez), Microsoft Office, and other facilities management systems
• Strong leadership, supervisory, and team-building skills
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, stakeholder engagement, and conflict resolution skills
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, 24/7 environment

How To Apply:

To apply for this job, please submit your application.