Manager, Building Operations

Zeiterion Theatre•New Bedford, MA

15h•$55,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Manager of Building Operations is a hands-on leader responsible for the day-to-day management of The Zeiterion's historic theater facility and the supervision of the building operations team. Reporting to the Director of Building Operations, this role ensures the building is safe, clean, fully operational, and welcoming to staff, artists, patrons, and community members. The Manager oversees daily maintenance operations, supervises per-diem facilities staff, manages vendor relationships, and ensures the facility is event-ready at all times. This role balances operational execution with team leadership, working collaboratively across departments to support a busy performance calendar and organizational mission.

Requirements

5–7 years of progressive experience in facilities management, building operations, or related field
2+ years of supervisory experience, including hiring, training, and performance management
Demonstrated expertise in managing building maintenance, custodial operations, and vendor relationships
Strong knowledge of building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, fire/life safety)
Experience with work order systems and facilities management software
Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills
Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) with ability to interact professionally with diverse stakeholders
Proven ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word) and Google Workspace
Commitment to fostering an inclusive, safe, and high-performing team culture
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays as needed for events
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree or Associate's degree in facilities management, business administration, or related field
Experience in performing arts, entertainment venues, hospitality, or event operations
Familiarity with historic building maintenance and preservation
Experience with union or non-union labor management
Facilities management certification (e.g., IFMA FMP, BOMI)
Knowledge of OSHA safety requirements and workplace compliance
Experience with budget management and expense tracking
Bilingual: Spanish, Portuguese, Kriolu (Cape Verdean Creole), Haitian Creole, or K'iche

Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Supervision (30%) Supervise, coach, and develop the per-diem facilities staff (custodial, maintenance, event services)
Recruit, hire, onboard, and train per-diem building operations and custodial staff
Create and approve staff schedules, ensuring adequate coverage for performances, events, and daily operations
Conduct performance evaluations, provide ongoing feedback, and address performance issues
Foster a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and excellence in service delivery
Monitor staff time and attendance; approve timesheets and manage payroll coordination
Build leadership capacity within the team through coaching and mentorship
Support the professional development and growth of team members
Daily Building Operations & Maintenance (30%) Oversee daily maintenance of all building areas and grounds, ensuring cleanliness, safety, and functionality
Conduct regular building inspections and walk-throughs to identify maintenance needs
Coordinate routine and emergency repairs with internal staff and external contractors
Ensure timely completion of work orders and maintenance requests
Monitor building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, fire/life safety) and coordinate repairs as needed
Oversee custodial operations, ensuring high standards of cleanliness throughout the facility
Ensure building is event-ready for performances, rentals, and special events
Respond to urgent facility issues during business hours and events
Vendor & Contractor Management (20%) Serve as primary point of contact for contractors, service providers, and deliveries
Schedule and coordinate contractor access, including keys, parking, and building orientation
Oversee service delivery for outsourced contracts (janitorial, HVAC, pest control, landscaping, etc.)
Ensure contractors have required insurance documentation and comply with building policies
Monitor vendor performance and service quality; recommend improvements to Director
Maintain vendor contact information and service history records
Support Director with vendor evaluations and contract renewals
Event Support & Cross-Department Collaboration (15%) Partner with Theater Operations, Production, and Front-of-House teams to ensure seamless event execution
Coordinate building readiness for performances, rentals, meetings, and special events
Align facility staffing and maintenance schedules with performance calendar
Serve as facilities liaison during events; address immediate building or safety concerns
Participate in event planning meetings to anticipate facility needs
Support load-in/load-out coordination with production and event teams
Ensure accessibility and ADA compliance for all events and programs
Administrative & Systems Management (5%) Maintain work order system; log, prioritize, assign, and track completion of requests
Generate reports on work orders, staffing, maintenance activities, and contractor spending
Track building supplies inventory; order cleaning supplies, tools, and equipment
Maintain building operations files, including warranties, service contracts, inspection records
Support annual budgeting process for building operations and staffing
Coordinate building access for staff, contractors, and visiting artists/performers
Participate in departmental and cross-functional meetings
Assist Director with preventative maintenance tracking and compliance documentation
Safety & Compliance (Variable) Ensure compliance with fire safety, building codes, health regulations, and accessibility standards
Support emergency preparedness planning, safety drills, and incident response
Maintain safety training records for facilities staff
Coordinate required inspections and ensure timely certification renewals
Report safety concerns and incidents to Director promptly
Ensure proper use of PPE and safe work practices by all facilities staff
Support OSHA compliance and workplace safety initiatives
Other duties as assigned