Director of Plant Operations (Behavioral Health Hospital)

UHS•New Orleans, LA

8d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled and dynamic Director of Plant Operations to oversee the maintenance, safety, and operational efficiency of our behavioral health facility. This leadership role requires a strategic thinker with extensive experience in facilities management within healthcare or behavioral health settings. The ideal candidate will possess strong mechanical, electrical, and industrial maintenance expertise, along with proven management capabilities to lead multidisciplinary teams and ensure compliance with safety standards.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management or related field. Education may be substituted with experience on a year-to-year basis.
A minimum of five (5) years facilities management or related experience with at least two years in a supervisory capacity.
Must have experience with reading blueprints and understand Life Safety Codes, Joint Commission and other regulatory Standards and OSHA Regulations.
Proven management experience in facilities operations within healthcare or behavioral health environments.
Extensive mechanical knowledge with hands-on experience in industrial maintenance practices.
Strong electrical expertise including working knowledge of low voltage and high voltage systems as well as schematics interpretation.
Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), CMMS software, HVAC systems, and building automation controls.
Demonstrated supervisory skills with the ability to lead diverse teams effectively.
Knowledge of maintenance management principles including project management techniques.
Excellent communication skills in English for clear reporting and coordination across departments.

Nice To Haves

Experience in a hospital or psychiatric facility highly preferred.
Relevant certifications or licenses in electrical systems or facilities management are preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of maintenance programs for all plant systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical equipment.
Supervise maintenance staff and external contractors, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Develop and manage preventative maintenance schedules to optimize equipment uptime.
Oversee the installation, troubleshooting, and repair of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), schematics, low voltage, and high voltage systems to ensure reliable facility operations.
Manage facilities projects from inception through completion, including upgrades to infrastructure and compliance with regulatory standards.
Ensure all facility systems meet safety codes and industry standards by conducting regular inspections and audits.
Maintain accurate documentation related to maintenance activities, work orders, schematics, and safety protocols.
Maintain safety protocols to meet Joint Commission standards and requirements.