Branch Manager - Facilities

Reporting to the Deputy Head of the Business Resources Center (BRC), the Branch Manager serves as a strategic and operational leader responsible for physical plant operations, facilities planning, vendor management, budget oversight, and employee safety programs.

Primary Responsibilities

Physical Plant Operations & Maintenance

• Oversee day-to-day operation and maintenance of building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, structural, architectural, and utility infrastructure.
• Manage preventive maintenance programs and ensure compliance with maintenance schedules and operational requirements.
• Direct facilities staff responsible for building operations, shipping and receiving, reception services, and facilities support functions across two building locations.
• Monitor facility performance and implement corrective actions to improve operational reliability and efficiency.
• Maintain facility management systems, asset records, and maintenance documentation.

Capital Projects & Space Planning

• Manage capital improvement projects, facility renovations, and major repairs.
• Develop project scopes, specifications, schedules, and budgets.
• Support long-range facilities planning and real estate activities.
• Coordinate with stakeholders regarding office space planning and utilization.
• Support on office space assignments and administration of the space/housing planning and analytics.

Safety, Compliance & Emergency Preparedness

• Lead facility safety programs and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Identify and mitigate safety risks and fire hazards.
• Coordinate inspections, testing, and regulatory reporting requirements.
• Support emergency preparedness planning and business continuity efforts.
• Serve as liaison with property management, regulatory agencies, and emergency response organizations.

Vendor & Contract Management

• Manage contractor relationships for housekeeping, security, landscaping, fire protection, cafeteria services, HVAC systems, and other facility support services.
• Oversee contract performance, service delivery, and vendor compliance.
• Support procurement activities, contract negotiations, and vendor evaluations.

Financial & Administrative Management

• Develop and manage facility operating budgets.
• Monitor expenditures, prepare financial reports, and support forecasting activities.
• Oversee property management compliance and asset accountability programs.
• Support organizational planning through facility metrics and operational reporting.
• Oversee all lease agreements including payment, renegotiation, renewal and dispute resolution.

Leadership

• Provide leadership, coaching, and supervision for facilities personnel.
• Foster a collaborative and service-oriented work environment.
• Develop and implement operational improvements that align with Institute goals.
• Represent the Facilities Branch in organizational initiatives and cross-functional projects.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible facilities management experience.
• Prior supervisory or management experience leading facilities or maintenance teams.
• Maryland Grade 1 Stationary Engineer License.
• Valid Maryland Driver's License.
• Strong knowledge of building systems, maintenance operations, safety compliance, and facilities management practices.
• Experience managing operating budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects, prioritize competing demands, and operate effectively in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Construction Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Facility Management Professional (FMP), Certified Plant Engineer (CPE), or similar professional certification.
• Experience with CMMS platforms and building automation systems.
• Knowledge of government contracting or federally funded research environments.
• Experience with sustainability initiatives and energy management programs.

Work Environment

This position involves a combination of office and facilities environments, including mechanical rooms, utility spaces, active construction sites, and outdoor areas. The role may require occasional after-hours and weekend response to facility emergencies and operational issues.