Facilities Project and Design Coordinator

Wesleyan University • Middletown, CT

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Wesleyan University, founded in 1831 and located in Middletown, Connecticut, is a leading liberal arts institution recognized for its academic excellence, vibrant community, and commitment to inclusion and innovation. Reporting to the Director of Campus Planning, the Facilities Project and Design Coordinator performs space analysis, programming, interior layout development, minor MEP coordination, contract furniture design, building finish selection and small scale project execution that supports the University’s planning and design initiatives. This position blends planning, facility design and hand’s on project delivery, contributing to a wide range of academic, administrative, and student-life projects across campus.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Construction Management, Facilities Management, Planning, Design or related field with at least 5 years of relevant professional experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Must be at least 20 years of age and possess a valid U.S. driver’s license for a minimum of three years with a satisfactory driving record.
• Ability to develop accurate space plans and evaluate impacts of HVAC, electrical, data, and life-safety systems.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent projects, while coordinating all trades and vendors.
• Demonstrated skills in developing, monitoring, and maintaining project budgets.
• Proficiency in measurement tools such as tape measures or laser distance devices.
• Strong computer skills including proficiency in AutoCAD, MS Office Suite, MS Project, PowerPoint, Adobe, CAFM and related systems for design, planning, budgeting, and project management.
• Effective communication and presentation skills, supported by a client-service mindset.
• Ability to balance practical problem solving with creative thinking with regard to renovating campus spaces in alignment with Campus Planning Principles.
• Self -motivated with the ability to work independently, take initiative and resolve challenges proactively.
• Build and maintain positive, collaborative relationships with campus clients’, Physical Plant staff, and external contractors to ensure project success.
• Capacity to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Proficient organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and solve practical design and construction challenges creatively.
• Working knowledge of building codes, accessibility standards, and office safety procedures.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in planning, Design, Architecture, Construction or equivalent plus at least two years of relevant professional experience.
• Proficiency in project cost accounting, scheduling and CAFM or other space management software.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret the project scope and goals, understanding their impact on surrounding departments and ensure alignment with the Campus Master Plan.
• Working knowledge of ADA and Life Safety guidelines as related to space planning - i.e. door swings and clearances, dead end corridor limits, aisle widths, room occupancy limits etc.
• Relevant experience in space planning, contract furniture design and specification, cost estimating, budgeting and AIA contract standards.
• Knowledge of ergonomics and furniture modifications to promote comfort and prevent repetitive strain injuries.

Responsibilities

• Project Planning, Design, and Administration Consult historical building documentation in the print library.
• Conduct site visits to verify and document existing conditions; update AutoCAD drawings accordingly.
• Develop project scope, plan spaces, specify and design contract furniture concepts in consultation with clients ensuring alignment with budget constraints and project goals.
• Evaluate how HVAC, electrical, data, life-safety systems, and structural constraints impact proposed layouts or space changes.
• Select and specify coordinated campus standards.
• Facilitates and coordinates input from multiple trades during project planning including movers, electricians, plumbers, general contractors, and furniture suppliers.
• Provide comprehensive project coordination, cost tracking, contract management and related documentation for multiple concurrent projects.
• Maintain and update AutoCAD files and space attribute data for University buildings.
• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to contribute to the Facilities and Construction team as needs arise.
• Project Management and Execution Manage multiple renovation and improvement projects (typically under $250,000) from concept through completion.
• This includes managing budgets, contracts and schedules for assigned projects to ensure on-time, on-budget, and on-scope delivery.
• Plan and oversee faculty and staff move requests, coordinating furniture, finishes, power, data, lighting and minor mechanical reconfigurations.
• Coordinate and schedule work across multiple trades including contractors, vendors, and campus partners to maintain project quality and schedule.
• Support classroom and student-space renovation efforts and other projects that enhance campus functionality.
• Develop design presentations and guide stakeholders through planning options and finish selections to ensure alignment with University standards and project objectives.
• Review and approve project invoices to verify compliance with budgets, scopes, schedules, and contract terms.
• Maintain thorough project documentation including photos, meeting notes, and summary reports to support project tracking and closeout.

Benefits

• Wesleyan offers a broad range of employee benefits and development opportunities, including comprehensive group insurance plans, wellness programs and incentives, generous paid time off and retirement plans, flexible work schedules, employee and dependent tuition programs for those who qualify.
• Detailed information on the benefits of working at Wesleyan is located at: https://wesleyan.edu/hr/careers/prospective-resources.html

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees