Are you passionate about leading facilities operations that support world-class scientific discovery?
The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is seeking a Branch Manager - Facilities to oversee the safety, maintenance, operation, and long-term planning of Institute facilities and infrastructure. This position is responsible for ensuring reliable building operations, managing facilities staff and contractors, supporting capital improvement projects, and maintaining compliance with applicable safety and regulatory requirements.
Reporting to the Deputy Head of the Business Resources Center (BRC), the Branch Manager serves as a strategic and operational leader responsible for physical plant operations, facilities planning, vendor management, budget oversight, and employee safety programs. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining an efficient, safe, and productive environment for Institute staff and visitors.
This position requires on-site presence at Institute facilities. This position can support hybrid work. Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV).This position requires US Citizenship or Permanent Residence in order to meet ITAR requirements.
Primary Responsibilities:
Physical Plant Operations & Maintenance
- Oversee day-to-day operation and maintenance of building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, structural, architectural, and utility infrastructure.
- Manage preventive maintenance programs and ensure compliance with maintenance schedules and operational requirements.
- Direct facilities staff responsible for building operations, shipping and receiving, reception services, and facilities support functions across two building locations.
- Monitor facility performance and implement corrective actions to improve operational reliability and efficiency.
- Maintain facility management systems, asset records, and maintenance documentation.
Capital Projects & Space Planning
- Manage capital improvement projects, facility renovations, and major repairs.
- Develop project scopes, specifications, schedules, and budgets.
- Support long-range facilities planning and real estate activities.
- Coordinate with stakeholders regarding office space planning and utilization.
- Support on office space assignments and administration of the space/housing planning and analytics.
Safety, Compliance & Emergency Preparedness
- Lead facility safety programs and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Identify and mitigate safety risks and fire hazards.
- Coordinate inspections, testing, and regulatory reporting requirements.
- Support emergency preparedness planning and business continuity efforts.
- Serve as liaison with property management, regulatory agencies, and emergency response organizations.
Vendor & Contract Management
- Manage contractor relationships for housekeeping, security, landscaping, fire protection, cafeteria services, HVAC systems, and other facility support services.
- Oversee contract performance, service delivery, and vendor compliance.
- Support procurement activities, contract negotiations, and vendor evaluations.
Financial & Administrative Management
- Develop and manage facility operating budgets.
- Monitor expenditures, prepare financial reports, and support forecasting activities.
- Oversee property management compliance and asset accountability programs.
- Support organizational planning through facility metrics and operational reporting.
- Oversee all lease agreements including payment, renegotiation, renewal and dispute resolution.
Leadership
- Provide leadership, coaching, and supervision for facilities personnel.
- Foster a collaborative and service-oriented work environment.
- Develop and implement operational improvements that align with Institute goals.
- Represent the Facilities Branch in organizational initiatives and cross-functional projects.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelors degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible facilities management experience.
- Prior supervisory or management experience leading facilities or maintenance teams.
- Maryland Grade 1 Stationary Engineer License.
- Valid Maryland Drivers License.
- Strong knowledge of building systems, maintenance operations, safety compliance, and facilities management practices.
- Experience managing operating budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships.
- Demonstrated ability to lead projects, prioritize competing demands, and operate effectively in a dynamic environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Masters degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Construction Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Facility Management Professional (FMP), Certified Plant Engineer (CPE), or similar professional certification.
- Experience with CMMS platforms and building automation systems.
- Knowledge of government contracting or federally funded research environments.
- Experience with sustainability initiatives and energy management programs.
Work Environment:
This position involves a combination of office and facilities environments, including mechanical rooms, utility spaces, active construction sites, and outdoor areas. The role may require occasional after-hours and weekend response to facility emergencies and operational issues.
Salary Range - $130,000 - $150,000. Final compensation is based on experience, skills, internal equity, and market conditions. The posted salary range represents a general guideline. STScI considers several factors when determining salary offers, including internal equity, position scope and responsibilities, candidate qualifications, experience, education, skills, and current market conditions.
TO APPLY: Branch Manager - Facilities.
Applications received by 11/02/26 will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled. Reference #0016444.
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu.