Director of Capital Planning and Sustainability

College of Lake County Foundation

1d • $110,000 - $121,100

About The Position

The Director of Capital Planning & Sustainability serves as a strategic leader responsible for advancing the College’s mission through effective capital planning, construction management, and sustainability initiatives. This role advises senior leadership, oversees major capital projects, ensures fiscal and regulatory accountability, and fosters strategic community and industry partnerships. The Director leads efforts to implement the College Master Plan, and support sustainability initiatives. The role requires strong analytical, strategic, and interpersonal skills; sound judgment; and the ability to navigate the evolving higher-education and government procurement environments with independence and initiative.
The College of Lake County (CLC) is a comprehensive community college located in northeastern Illinois committed to being an innovative educational institution providing life-changing paths for our students by offering exceptional learning experiences.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or another relevant field
• Seven (7) years of comparable professional experience.
• At least three (3) years of progressive supervisory experience.
• Thorough understanding of the construction management process, and experience interpreting and negotiating AIA and other complex contracts with legal counsel.
• Experience managing multiple projects and improving organizational efficiency.
• Experience with sustainability initiatives and sustainability planning.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Licensed Architect or Licensed Professional Engineer.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative oversight for capital construction, renovation, and major deferred maintenance projects, ensuring delivery that meets quality, regulatory, budget, and schedule expectations.
• Manage project programming, budgeting, procurement, contract negotiation, risk mitigation, and compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Oversee preparation of specifications, schedules, and public solicitations (IFB, RFP, RFQ, QBS).
• Monitor vendor and contractor performance.
• Serve as primary contact with insurers, risk management, and legal counsel on capital and sustainability contracts.
• Maintain current knowledge of relevant legislation, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Lead sustainability initiatives, including carbon reduction efforts, LEED-aligned planning, and compliance with environmental regulations.
• Support the IL Green Economy Network (IGEN) and statewide sustainability workforce initiatives.
• Oversee technology systems supporting capital planning (e.g., Workday ERP, Project Teams).
• Manage departmental budgets, procurement, payroll, and records.
• Provide values-driven leadership to foster high-performing, customer-focused, and collaborative teams.
• Implement the strategic plan and cultivate a student-centered, community-engaged culture aligned with the College’s mission and values.
• Develop procedures and training to improve capital planning processes and service delivery.
• Collaborate with Legislative Affairs Division on upcoming state or federal legislation related to construction or sustainability matters.
• Develop strategic partnerships with architects, contractors, and community organizations to support internships, scholarships, and workforce initiatives.
• Present project updates and recommendations to senior leadership and governance bodies.
• Direct, mentor, lead, and support department staff; promote continuous learning.
• Provide clear communication, regular feedback, and recognition.
• Support cross-college professional development and sustainability education opportunities.
• Serve on cross-departmental teams, committees, councils, and shared governance groups.
• Stay current on laws, regulations, and best practices relevant to capital planning and sustainability.
• Represent the College in professional associations and community initiatives.
• Participate in college and community events and perform related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• competitive salary
• excellent benefits that includes Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois health, Delta Dental and Superior Vision insurance plans
• tuition support for employees and qualified family members
• three retirement plans
• disability, group and supplemental life insurance
• health and dependent care flexible spending account plans
• a compressed work week in the summer (Closed Fridays!)
• generous vacation, sick and personal time off
• 14 paid holidays each year

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director