Facilities Operations Manager

Founded in 1966, Durham Exchange Industries, Inc. (DECI) is a respected nonprofit organization based in Durham, North Carolina with a mission to help people with vocational disabilities achieve a sense of self-worth by optimizing their potential to earn competitive wages through work. We do this through hands-on job training, vocational evaluation, employment placement, and long-term support, both within DECI and in the broader community. 

DECI operates as a self-supporting social enterprise, partnering with local, national, and international customers to provide dependable production, logistics, and support services. Revenue from these commercial operations is reinvested directly into our programs—fueling job training, employment services, and individualized support for the people we serve.

Our workplace culture is inclusive, collaborative, and purpose-driven. Employees at DECI are more than team members—they are part of a mission that strengthens individuals, families, and the Durham community. Every role contributes to building pathways to employment, independence, and long-term success.

If you’re looking for a career where your work has real impact, where your skills support both business excellence and human potential, and where inclusion is more than a value—it’s a daily practice - DECI is a place where purpose and profession meet.

We are seeking a Facilities Operations Manager to join our Team!

The Facilities Operations Manager will manage all facilities operations including building maintenance, janitorial services, and cafeteria functions. Provide leadership and direction to department supervisors and staff to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality operations that support the organization’s mission. Maintain optimal functioning of the physical environment, oversee preventative maintenance, environmental services, food operations, and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS

• Manage and oversee all aspects of facilities operations, including maintenance, janitorial, cafeteria, and groundskeeping functions.
• Supervise and coach the Facilities Assistant Manager, Cafeteria Assistant Manager and Janitorial Team.
• In cooperation with the Director, plan and execute long- and short-term departmental goals that align with organizational objectives.
• Ensure all facilities, systems, and equipment—including HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire/life safety, and waste management—are maintained in safe, reliable, and compliant condition.
• Oversee preventive maintenance programs and ensure timely completion of repairs, inspections, and documentation for internal and external regulatory requirements (e.g., OSHA, fire safety, health codes).
• Monitor vendor performance and serve as the primary point of contact for contracted services related to facilities, janitorial, and cafeteria operations.
• Manage department budgets, including labor, maintenance, utilities, and supplies. Track and analyze expenditures to identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Lead the Safety Committee as department representative and promote a culture of safety throughout all operations.
• Oversee custodial operations to ensure a clean, organized, and safe environment in all facilities; schedule and inspect janitorial work for quality assurance.
• Direct cafeteria operations, ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation standards and effective supervision of staff and clients.
• Partner with Program Services to support client vocational and behavioral training goals within each operational department.
• Maintain accurate records of maintenance, inspections, service requests, utilities consumption, inventory, and safety incidents.
• Establish and enforce departmental policies and work procedures consistent with organizational and regulatory standards.
• Evaluate performance of subordinate supervisors; provide coaching, feedback, and performance evaluations.
• Work cooperatively and professionally with all DECI staff, clients, and external partners; maintain good public relations with customers and professional contacts.
• Recommend and participate in staff development and training programs to promote professional growth and operational excellence.
• Focus on efforts to increase positive staff morale, promote teamwork, and ensure accountability at all levels.
• May assist with persons with disabilities, including restraining in an emergency (if NCI certified).
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• Minimum of five years of successful work experience in facilities, operations, or related management field, including supervisory experience.
• Expertise in Excel and MaintainX 
• Demonstrated experience overseeing maintenance, custodial, or food service operations.
• Knowledge of facilities systems (mechanical, electrical, HVAC, plumbing), preventive maintenance, safety standards, and food service regulations.
• Strong analytical, organizational, leadership, and problem-solving abilities as evidenced by past experience.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead diverse teams and work collaboratively across departments.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities, adapt to changing needs, and meet deadlines with limited supervision.
• Working knowledge of basic accounting and budgeting principles.
• Physical ability to carry, move, or lift at least 35 lbs. to demonstrate or assist with operational tasks.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Fluency in English language.