Associate Director, Custodial Services & Climate Control Systems

San José State University•San Jose, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Director of Custodial Services and Climate Control Systems provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the university's comprehensive custodial, moving, and climate control systems programs across more than six million square feet of campus facilities. Reporting to the Senior Director of Maintenance & Operations, this position independently directs large-scale operations, manages significant financial and human resources, and develops service strategies that ensure safe, efficient, and customer-focused facility operations. The role oversees a large workforce, establishes operational standards and performance metrics, manages regulatory compliance, and collaborates with campus stakeholders to support the University's educational mission through exceptional facilities services.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in public administration, management, business or a related field OR which may be obtained through equivalent experience such as might be attained through five years of supervisory experience in custodial or operational services management, of which a minimum of three years is associated with progressively responsible experience
Four years of supervisory experience in scheduling, coordinating, and managing custodial operations, of which a minimum of two years are associated with progressively responsible management.
Demonstrated experience leading and overseeing custodial and/or moving services and operations common to a large, complex organization.
Supervisory experience in human resources and employee relations management.
Demonstrated experience developing and implementing service plans including task development and resource assignment/management.
Comprehensive knowledge of custodial operations, facilities management, and operational planning.
Strong leadership and personnel management skills, including supervision within a unionized environment.
Ability to develop service standards, quality assurance programs, and performance measurement systems.
Knowledge of budgeting, financial management, forecasting, and resource planning.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and process improvement skills.
Strong customer service orientation with the ability to build collaborative relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.
Effective written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills.
Proficiency using computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and standard business software applications.
Ability to manage multiple priorities independently while adapting to changing operational demands.
Knowledge of regulatory compliance, workplace safety requirements, emergency response, and the ethical application of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to support operational effectiveness.
A valid driver's license is required for this position. Out of state candidates selected for the position must obtain a State of California driver's license within 10 days of hire in accordance with the California Department of Motor Vehicles regulations.
Once hired the employee must successfully complete the Defensive Driver Training Program provided by the State of California for California State University campuses.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in public administration, management, business or a related field.
CCE certification through the International Sanitary Supply Association and/or GCMC certification through the International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association or equivalent certification.
Supervisory experience within a collective bargaining and represented staff environment.
Experience managing custodial services for a demanding, large, and complex organization and environment.
Experience in operational services management of a State facility, College or University, or other multi-facility complex.

Responsibilities

Direct and oversee all custodial, moving, and assigned mechanical operations across multiple campus facilities to ensure high-quality, uninterrupted services.
Develop, implement, and continuously improve comprehensive operational plans, preventive maintenance programs, service standards, and quality assurance processes.
Lead operational planning, workload prioritization, and service delivery using the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).
Manage assigned operating budgets, resource allocation, financial forecasting, and cost recovery to maximize operational efficiency.
Supervise, mentor, and evaluate managers and staff, including recruitment, employee development, performance management, labor relations, and workforce engagement.
Develop and administer service contracts, coordinate vendor performance, and ensure compliance with CSU procurement requirements.
Build strong partnerships with campus departments by providing responsive customer service, communicating service expectations, and enhancing the overall customer experience.
Ensure compliance with applicable safety regulations, environmental requirements, University policies, and emergency preparedness procedures.
Analyze operational performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and implement process enhancements to increase efficiency and service quality.
Participate in strategic planning initiatives and collaborate with university leadership to support long-term operational goals and campus priorities.