Maintenance Zone Manager

Rice University•Houston, TX

5h•Onsite

About The Position

The Facilities and Capital Planning department is seeking a proactive, experienced Maintenance Zone Manager to lead maintenance operations within a designated area of our 300-acre, tree-lined campus in the heart of Houston. This role oversees a team of skilled professionals, fosters strong customer relationships, and ensures facilities are maintained to the highest standards of safety, functionality, and appearance, all in support of the university’s mission of excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. The ideal candidate is a strong leader with a proven track record in facilities management who thrives in a collaborative environment and brings a proactive, customer-focused approach to problem-solving. They combine technical expertise with excellent communication and organizational skills to ensure high standards of maintenance, safety, and service across campus.

Requirements

Associate degree
In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis
4 years of experience related to facilities operations management, preventive, corrective, and/or deferred maintenance
In lieu of the experience requirement, additional related education above and beyond what is required may be substituted on an equivalent year-for-year basis
Strong leadership and team-building capabilities
Proficiency in CMMS and Microsoft Office Suite
Knowledge of building systems and maintenance best practices
Excellent communication and problem-solving skills

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management, Construction, Engineering, or a related field
Minimum of 7 years of facilities maintenance experience, including at least 2 years in a supervisory role
Experience in an academic, higher education, or similarly mission-driven institutional setting
Familiarity with Rice University’s campus and operational standards
Relevant certifications such as CFM, BOC, or equivalent

Responsibilities

Lead, supervise, and support a team of general maintenance professionals within an assigned campus zone
Conduct performance evaluations, provide coaching and role-based training, and promote a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement
Oversee daily maintenance activities, including preventive and corrective work, using Rice University’s Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) Tririga
Prioritize, assign, and track work orders to ensure timely, cost-effective, and high-quality completion
Monitor the condition and performance of building systems, infrastructure, and equipment to ensure safety, reliability, and long-term asset performance
Partner with project managers, contractors, and campus stakeholders on facility renovations and capital improvement projects
Assist in the development and management of the zone’s maintenance budget, including tracking expenditures and optimizing labor, materials, and resources
Serve as the primary point of contact for maintenance concerns within the assigned zone, building strong working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and other campus departments
Communicate effectively about maintenance activities, project schedules, and service interruptions, ensuring transparency and minimal disruption
Respond to urgent maintenance issues and coordinate after-hours emergency support when needed
Other duties and special projects as assigned
Support planning and execution of infrastructure upgrades that enhance energy efficiency, system reliability, and occupant comfort
Monitor the condition and performance of building systems, infrastructure, and equipment to ensure safety, reliability, and long-term asset performance