Facilities and Building Operations Manager

Job Description: Facilities and Building Operations Manager

Location: Chicago, IL Position: Full-Time Reports to: Chief Operating Officer / Chief Financial Officer

About Chicago Center For Arts and Technology:

Chicago Center for Arts and Technology (CHICAT) is a nonprofit organization that uses the power of art, technology and creative expression to change lives. We provide innovative educational and workforce development opportunities that help individuals build skills, discover their potential and create pathways to opportunity.

Our physical environment plays an important role in that mission. We are seeking a Facilities and Building Operations Manager who takes pride in maintaining a safe, welcoming, clean and fully functioning learning environment for our students, instructors, staff and visitors.

Position Overview

The Facilities and Building Operations Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operation, maintenance, safety and appearance of CHICAT's approximately 4,000-square-foot educational facility.

The building includes seven classrooms, ten offices, common areas, restrooms, a parking lot and an outdoor patio.

This is a hands-on position requiring someone who is proactive, highly organized, resourceful and comfortable managing a variety of building-related responsibilities. The successful candidate will oversee routine maintenance, coordinate outside contractors, manage preventive maintenance schedules, monitor building safety and ensure that all spaces are clean, functional and ready for daily activities.

We are looking for someone who takes ownership, anticipates needs and understands that a well-maintained facility contributes directly to the success of our students and programs.

Key Responsibilities

1. Building Maintenance and Operations

• Oversee the daily operation and maintenance of the facility.
• Perform basic repairs and maintenance involving doors, locks, lighting, furniture, plumbing and other building components.
• Monitor HVAC systems and coordinate servicing and repairs as needed.
• Conduct regular building inspections to identify maintenance needs and potential problems.
• Maintain an organized schedule of routine and preventive maintenance.
• Ensure classrooms, offices and common areas are properly equipped and operational.

2. Facility Cleanliness and Appearance

• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and organization throughout the building.
• Oversee janitorial services and coordinate cleaning schedules.
• Monitor supplies and arrange replenishment of cleaning and facility-related materials.
• Ensure classrooms, restrooms, common areas and offices are clean and presentable.
• Take pride in maintaining an attractive, welcoming and professional environment.

3. Grounds and Exterior Maintenance

• Oversee the maintenance and appearance of the parking lot, outdoor patio, walkways and building exterior.
• Coordinate landscaping and seasonal grounds maintenance.
• Arrange snow removal, salting and ice management during Chicago winters.
• Monitor exterior lighting, drainage and general property conditions.

4. Safety and Security

• Help ensure compliance with applicable building, fire and workplace safety requirements.
• Monitor fire extinguishers, emergency exits, alarms and other safety equipment.
• Maintain familiarity with emergency procedures and building evacuation plans.
• Report and address safety hazards promptly.
• Coordinate required inspections and maintain appropriate records.
• Assist with opening and closing procedures and building access management.

5. Vendor and Contractor Management

• Coordinate outside contractors and service providers for HVAC, plumbing, electrical, cleaning, landscaping and other facility needs.
• Obtain estimates and assist with evaluating service proposals.
• Monitor vendor performance, scheduling and quality of work.
• Maintain records of vendor contacts, service agreements and completed work.
• Seek cost-effective solutions while maintaining appropriate quality and safety standards.

6. Administrative and Budget Responsibilities

• Maintain a facilities maintenance log and preventive maintenance calendar.
• Track maintenance expenses and assist with managing the facilities budget.
• Maintain records of inspections, repairs, warranties and service contracts.
• Identify upcoming maintenance needs and recommend priorities.
• Communicate facility issues and proposed solutions to organizational leadership.

7. Program and Event Support

• Assist with classroom and common-area setups for programs, meetings and special events.
• Ensure spaces are ready for students, instructors, staff and visitors.
• Respond to unexpected facility needs in a timely and professional manner.
• Work collaboratively with program and administrative staff to support the organization's daily operations.

Qualifications and Experience

Required:

• Three or more years of experience in facilities management, building maintenance or building operations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of general building systems, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical and basic repairs.
• Experience coordinating contractors, vendors and maintenance services.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities and respond effectively to unexpected situations.
• Basic computer skills, including email, spreadsheets and maintenance recordkeeping.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to perform the physical requirements of the position, including walking throughout the facility, climbing stairs, lifting and moving supplies or equipment as reasonably required.

Preferred:

• Experience working in a school, educational institution, nonprofit or community facility.
• Familiarity with building safety requirements, fire and life-safety procedures and OSHA principles.
• Experience with preventive maintenance planning and facilities budgeting.
• Experience overseeing janitorial and grounds maintenance services.

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate will be:

• Proactive: Anticipates problems and addresses them before they become emergencies.
• Resourceful: Enjoys finding practical solutions and knows when professional assistance is needed.
• Organized: Keeps accurate records and follows through on commitments.
• Service-oriented: Understands that students, staff and visitors depend on a safe and welcoming environment.
• Flexible: Comfortable shifting priorities and responding to changing needs.
• Personable: Enjoys working with people and contributing to a positive workplace culture.
• Accountable: Takes pride in the condition of the building and assumes responsibility for its upkeep.

What Makes This Opportunity Special?

CHICAT is a mission-driven organization where every employee contributes to something bigger than themselves. This position offers the opportunity to play an important role in creating an environment where creativity, learning and personal growth can flourish.

We are looking for someone who wants to be part of a team, takes pride in their work and understands that the details matter.

A well-maintained building is more than a facility. It is the foundation for everything that happens inside it.

Pay: From $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person