Building Manager

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer: 

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match 
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! 

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

JOB PURPOSE:

The Building Manager ensures the smooth operation of teaching, research and office space, and acts as a liaison between the Chemistry Department, Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), and Physical Facilities Management (PFM) team. The candidate must have a strong understanding of building systems and chemistry laboratories.  The successful candidate will oversee and participate in needed maintenance and repairs of the building to ensure functional integrity for teaching and research.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:

None.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Internal contacts include staff, students and faculty.
 

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Serves as the main contact for the Chemistry Department for routine and emergency maintenance and repair requests. 

• Monitor the building condition (particularly the laboratory space) by performing regular inspections, and schedule routine maintenance (e.g., fume hoods, HVAC, and roof). Report maintenance or cleaning needs to the department staff.    

• Assist the department with submission of work orders to PFM as needed and monitor progress. 

• Oversee the work of vendors and contractors by maintaining standing orders and managing professional relationships; and provide building access to outside vendors and contractors. 

• Work closely with faculty and staff to provide solutions to facility-related problems. 

• Design, plan, or assist in renovation/modification projects to meet specific department or research needs or to correct building problems, requiring an understanding of structural design and Department needs. 

• Respond to building emergencies, and serves as the primary emergency contact 24 hours a day throughout the year, including semester breaks, weekends, and holidays. 

• Assist faculty, staff and graduate students with shipping, receiving, and moving tasks. 

• Installation of some laboratory equipment, cabinetry, shelving, etc. 

• Communicate with the appropriate Facilities staff when the work order is not completed within a reasonable time frame. 

• Serve as a liaison to Public Safety, PFM, EHS, and other university entities in emergency response situations and for safety-related topics. 

• Supervision of small groups of student workers. 
   

Laboratory Safety 
 

• Troubleshoot and advise on problems that arise regarding the safety of building or laboratory facilities. 

• Check safety showers and eyewash stations weekly to ensure their working conditions. 

• Remain up to date with University safety training. 

• Act as a department contact for Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS). 

• Understand hazardous material safety guidelines per University protocols. 

• Work with EHS on proper handling of hazardous waste materials from teaching and research laboratories. 

• Assist in chemical/solvent deliveries as necessary. 

• Develop and execute response plans for safety, security, and business continuity. 
   

Perform other duties as assigned by the Chemistry Department. 
 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

1. Five years of related experience in a variety of trades relevant to general building functions including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and mechanical; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

2. Knowledge of building materials and methods.

3. Proven supervisory skills.

4. Abilities to use Microsoft Office suite, particularly Excel and Outlook.

5. Strong interpersonal skills, ability to work with faculty members, staff, and students.

6. Valid driver’s license (ability to drive University vehicles).

7. Ability to climb ladders, kneel, reach above the shoulder, stand and/or walk for extended periods of time and may be required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, or related field.

2. Experience in specifying and purchasing parts or equipment.

3. Experience working in chemistry laboratory/research setting. 

4. Understanding and minor maintenance of water purification systems, laboratory hoods, and electronic locksets.

5. Ability to engage, connect, and work with diverse student, administrative, and faculty populations and provide a commitment to the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in an educational setting.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

$65,000-$75,000