Supervisor, Facilities Services

Brandeis University•Waltham, MA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Brandeis University is delighted to announce a career opportunity as the Supervisor Facilities in the Facilities Department. The Supervisor, Facilities Services (Plumbing Services, Steam Heat & Central Heating Plant) provides first-line supervision and coordination of bargaining-unit employees assigned to plumbing services, steam heat distribution, and central heating plant operations. The Supervisor is responsible for planning, assigning, and monitoring work; ensuring safe and compliant operations; and serving as the primary point of coordination between Facilities Services management and union personnel. This position is considered an essential employee role, requiring availability during emergencies, campus closures, or other critical situations.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required; technical or vocational training in plumbing, heating, or power plant operations preferred.
Valid Master Plumber’s license required.
Valid and current MA driver’s license required.
Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in plumbing and/or central heating plant operations, preferably in a unionized environment.
Demonstrated experience providing work direction or lead supervision.
Strong working knowledge of plumbing systems, boiler operations, and steam/hot water distribution.
Knowledge of safety regulations and applicable trade codes.
Ability to interpret collective bargaining agreements and apply work rules consistently.
Experience with payroll, budgeting, or labor cost management preferred.
Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience in higher education, healthcare, or other large institutional facilities.
Applicable state licenses or certifications (e.g., Journeyman/Master Plumber, Boiler Operator).
Experience working with CMMS platforms.
Training in labor relations or supervisory practices in a union environment.

Responsibilities

Provide day-to-day supervision of bargaining-unit employees engaged in plumbing services and central heating plant operations.
Assign and prioritize work in accordance with established work rules, collective bargaining agreements, and University policies.
Monitor work progress to ensure tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and to required standards.
Provide technical direction, coaching, and on-the-job training to employees.
Verify time, attendance, payroll, and work order completion, as required.
Coordinate maintenance and repair of campus plumbing systems, including domestic water, sanitary and storm drainage, fixtures, pumps, and related infrastructure.
Ensure plumbing work is performed in compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and University standards.
Respond to and coordinate emergency plumbing issues, including leaks, backups, and water service interruptions.
Coordinate and interact with city inspectors to ensure campus plumbing work meets municipal code requirements and passes inspections.
Supervise and coordinate the operation and maintenance of the central heating plant, including boilers, burners, steam and condensate systems, and related controls.
Work closely with the Chief Engineer to oversee plant operations and ensure safe, reliable service.
Coordinate seasonal startup and shutdown activities.
Monitor operating conditions, alarms, and system performance to ensure safe and reliable service.
Ensure required logs, inspections, and documentation are maintained.
Enforce safety practices and ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, DEP, and other applicable regulations.
Conduct safety briefings and reinforce proper use of PPE and lockout/tagout procedures.
Apply collective bargaining agreement provisions consistently and fairly.
Participate in employee discipline, investigations, and grievance responses in collaboration with Facilities Services management and Labor Relations.
Maintain professional working relationships with union representatives.
Review, prioritize, and close work orders using the University’s CMMS.
Assist with planning preventive maintenance schedules.
Coordinate with other Facilities Services units and outside contractors, ensuring contractors follow University safety and access protocols.
Assist management with material procurement, inventory oversight, and payroll management.
Oversee budget, contract management, and the RFP process to ensure compliance and effective operations.
Track labor hours and expenses, ensuring alignment with budget and payroll records.