Director of Operations
Menlo Park, CA
Full Time
Senior Manager/Supervisor
Director of Operations
Overview of position
The Director of Operations plays a key leadership role in overseeing the planning, development, and daily management of the school’s physical plant, campus operations, safety initiatives, technology infrastructure, and coordinates with the Board’s Campus Development Committee and the Audit Risk Committee to maintain a campus environment that supports the school’s mission, values, and long-term goals. The Director works collaboratively with school leadership, faculty, and staff to align operational priorities with the academic calendar and the evolving needs of the school community. A forward-thinking mindset and commitment to long-term sustainability are essential, with responsibilities that include strategic planning, capital project oversight, regulatory compliance, vendor coordination, and the supervision of key personnel members. The ideal candidate brings both hands-on expertise and a systems-level view, ensuring that all campus operations reflect the school’s commitment to environmental stewardship, safety, and excellence.
The Director of Operations position is an exempt, full-time, 12-month in person position reporting to the Head of School. The start date is flexible with a date as early as January 1, 2026 through July 1 2026.
Primary Responsibilities
Facilities Management
• Oversee the maintenance, repair, and improvement of all school buildings, grounds, and infrastructure
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules and long-term capital improvement plans (PPRRSM)
• Manage all building systems including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, security and safety systems
• Work in close partnership with the Head of School and Director of Finance to envision and advance a campus environment that aligns with the school’s mission and future goals
• Define and procure services necessary for on-going operation and maintenance of the facility/campus
• Manage the daily duties and tasks of the facilities team
• Maintain an ongoing list of all required projects on campus along with cost and due dates; regularly communicate updates with various stakeholders
• Maintain and manage preventative maintenance records, vendor files and plant files (to include but not limited to air conditioning/heating units, back flow valves, fire extinguishers, and appliances)
• Maintain a current inventory list of all campus resources such as tables, chairs, etc.
• Maintain an inventory of essential equipment, supplies and replacement parts to ensure smooth operations
• Set and maintain a level of materials and supplies to have on hand to ensure that a corrective, preventative, or emergency maintenance repair can be done in a timely manner
• Identify and recommend materials, processes and equipment to be used in changes or modifications to systems or equipment that yield energy savings in plant utilities or resources (i.e., purchase vs rentals, etc.)
Operations Oversight
• Lead and supervise the facilities and custodial teams, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation • Working with the Director of Finance, develop and manage the facilities and operations budget, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation
• Coordinate and support campus use for events, programs, and community activities
Safety and Security
• Serve as the primary liaison for campus security, safety, and emergency preparedness
• Develop, implement, train and monitor campus safety protocols, emergency response plans, and drills
• Serve on the school’s workplace violence prevention program administrative team
• Oversee access control systems, surveillance equipment, and visitor management procedures
• Ensure full compliance with OSHA, ADA, fire safety, and other relevant health and safety regulations
• Partner with school leadership to foster a culture of safety and risk awareness across the community
Project and Vendor Management
• Ensure a fair, transparent, and competitive bid process for facilities projects by preparing clear scopes of work, obtaining multiple bids when appropriate, and selecting vendors based on cost, quality, and alignment with school values
• Plan and oversee construction, renovation, and capital improvement projects
• Manage relationships with external contractors and vendors to ensure timely, high-quality service
• Maintain accurate records for inspections, permits, warranties, and safety certifications
• Work with architects, engineers, and design staff on assigned projects
• Ensure that valid permits are issued and on-site before start of work
• Ensure that contractors performing work on site have submitted a proper safety plan prior to starting work
Technology Infrastructure Coordination
• Work closely with the Technology Coordinator to ensure the technology vision aligns with the school’s mission, values, and strategic priorities
Board of Trustees
• Work closely with the Chair of the Campus Development Committee and Task Force to set meeting agenda and plan strategic initiatives
• Work closely with the Chair of the Audit & Risk Management Committee to set meeting agenda and plan strategic initiatives
• Present and update school wide initiatives at Board meetings
Administration and Campus Duties
• Monitor the cleanliness and organization of the campus on a daily basis
• Act as primary point of contact 24/7 on all security and fire alarms
• Ensure student safety as it pertains to traffic patterns, pedestrian traffic and emergency drills
• Schedule and coordinate all systems and equipment shutdowns necessary for repair, replacement, and/or modification done to facility’s systems or equipment Other duties as assigned or required to maintain campus in the highest level of condition.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s Degree required
• Minimum of five (5) years prior facilities, maintenance, and/or project management experience with significant knowledge in the following areas: mechanical, plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems and controls, carpentry and construction
• Working knowledge of all building and safety codes from government agencies having jurisdiction, hands-on experience in multiple maintenance disciplines, including boiler systems, electrical, plumbing and general carpentry
• Technical work experience, with experience in an education setting preferred
• Knowledge of best methods, practices, equipment and supplies used in facility maintenance, as well as the ability to interpret and understand building and safety regulations
• Knowledge of budget preparation and control and the ability to work within budget constraints
• Personnel management skills and contractor management experience with aptitude to judge quality of performance in all major technical trades
• Customer and team focused: Ability to engage collaboratively and diplomatically with stakeholders and team members
• Ability to interpret and follow a variety of instructions furnished in written or oral form.
• Ability to solve problems in a practical and efficient way
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing priorities
• Prior people management experience
Compensation and Benefits
The full-time salary range for this position is $130,000-160,000. The starting salary depends on factors that include background, years of experience, education level, and skill level.
PBS offers an employee benefit package that includes fully paid medical, dental, vision, life insurance plans, long-term disability insurance, flexible spending account and a generous retirement plan match. Eligibility rules apply.
To Apply
Qualified, interested candidates may apply for the position through the online Phillips Brooks Employment Website. Please submit your application information - letter of interest, a CV/resume with your relevant experience and expertise, and contact information for three professional references (include supervisors).
Phillips Brooks School is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All aspects of employment at PBS are governed on the basis of competence, merit, and qualifications. We do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and experiences — including those with professional experience outside the field of education — who share our commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive school community.
About Phillips Brooks School
Phillips Brooks School is a vibrant and innovative Early Learning Center (ELC) to 5th grade school committed to fostering a love of learning in a supportive and inclusive environment. Located on a beautiful campus in Menlo Park, California and serving 300 students, we instill values of courage, kindness, community, and a passion for lifelong learning.
For more information about Phillips Brooks School, visit our website at: Phillips Brooks School.
Overview of position
The Director of Operations plays a key leadership role in overseeing the planning, development, and daily management of the school’s physical plant, campus operations, safety initiatives, technology infrastructure, and coordinates with the Board’s Campus Development Committee and the Audit Risk Committee to maintain a campus environment that supports the school’s mission, values, and long-term goals. The Director works collaboratively with school leadership, faculty, and staff to align operational priorities with the academic calendar and the evolving needs of the school community. A forward-thinking mindset and commitment to long-term sustainability are essential, with responsibilities that include strategic planning, capital project oversight, regulatory compliance, vendor coordination, and the supervision of key personnel members. The ideal candidate brings both hands-on expertise and a systems-level view, ensuring that all campus operations reflect the school’s commitment to environmental stewardship, safety, and excellence.
The Director of Operations position is an exempt, full-time, 12-month in person position reporting to the Head of School. The start date is flexible with a date as early as January 1, 2026 through July 1 2026.
Primary Responsibilities
Facilities Management
• Oversee the maintenance, repair, and improvement of all school buildings, grounds, and infrastructure
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules and long-term capital improvement plans (PPRRSM)
• Manage all building systems including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, security and safety systems
• Work in close partnership with the Head of School and Director of Finance to envision and advance a campus environment that aligns with the school’s mission and future goals
• Define and procure services necessary for on-going operation and maintenance of the facility/campus
• Manage the daily duties and tasks of the facilities team
• Maintain an ongoing list of all required projects on campus along with cost and due dates; regularly communicate updates with various stakeholders
• Maintain and manage preventative maintenance records, vendor files and plant files (to include but not limited to air conditioning/heating units, back flow valves, fire extinguishers, and appliances)
• Maintain a current inventory list of all campus resources such as tables, chairs, etc.
• Maintain an inventory of essential equipment, supplies and replacement parts to ensure smooth operations
• Set and maintain a level of materials and supplies to have on hand to ensure that a corrective, preventative, or emergency maintenance repair can be done in a timely manner
• Identify and recommend materials, processes and equipment to be used in changes or modifications to systems or equipment that yield energy savings in plant utilities or resources (i.e., purchase vs rentals, etc.)
Operations Oversight
• Lead and supervise the facilities and custodial teams, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance evaluation • Working with the Director of Finance, develop and manage the facilities and operations budget, ensuring cost-effective resource allocation
• Coordinate and support campus use for events, programs, and community activities
Safety and Security
• Serve as the primary liaison for campus security, safety, and emergency preparedness
• Develop, implement, train and monitor campus safety protocols, emergency response plans, and drills
• Serve on the school’s workplace violence prevention program administrative team
• Oversee access control systems, surveillance equipment, and visitor management procedures
• Ensure full compliance with OSHA, ADA, fire safety, and other relevant health and safety regulations
• Partner with school leadership to foster a culture of safety and risk awareness across the community
Project and Vendor Management
• Ensure a fair, transparent, and competitive bid process for facilities projects by preparing clear scopes of work, obtaining multiple bids when appropriate, and selecting vendors based on cost, quality, and alignment with school values
• Plan and oversee construction, renovation, and capital improvement projects
• Manage relationships with external contractors and vendors to ensure timely, high-quality service
• Maintain accurate records for inspections, permits, warranties, and safety certifications
• Work with architects, engineers, and design staff on assigned projects
• Ensure that valid permits are issued and on-site before start of work
• Ensure that contractors performing work on site have submitted a proper safety plan prior to starting work
Technology Infrastructure Coordination
• Work closely with the Technology Coordinator to ensure the technology vision aligns with the school’s mission, values, and strategic priorities
Board of Trustees
• Work closely with the Chair of the Campus Development Committee and Task Force to set meeting agenda and plan strategic initiatives
• Work closely with the Chair of the Audit & Risk Management Committee to set meeting agenda and plan strategic initiatives
• Present and update school wide initiatives at Board meetings
Administration and Campus Duties
• Monitor the cleanliness and organization of the campus on a daily basis
• Act as primary point of contact 24/7 on all security and fire alarms
• Ensure student safety as it pertains to traffic patterns, pedestrian traffic and emergency drills
• Schedule and coordinate all systems and equipment shutdowns necessary for repair, replacement, and/or modification done to facility’s systems or equipment Other duties as assigned or required to maintain campus in the highest level of condition.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s Degree required
• Minimum of five (5) years prior facilities, maintenance, and/or project management experience with significant knowledge in the following areas: mechanical, plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems and controls, carpentry and construction
• Working knowledge of all building and safety codes from government agencies having jurisdiction, hands-on experience in multiple maintenance disciplines, including boiler systems, electrical, plumbing and general carpentry
• Technical work experience, with experience in an education setting preferred
• Knowledge of best methods, practices, equipment and supplies used in facility maintenance, as well as the ability to interpret and understand building and safety regulations
• Knowledge of budget preparation and control and the ability to work within budget constraints
• Personnel management skills and contractor management experience with aptitude to judge quality of performance in all major technical trades
• Customer and team focused: Ability to engage collaboratively and diplomatically with stakeholders and team members
• Ability to interpret and follow a variety of instructions furnished in written or oral form.
• Ability to solve problems in a practical and efficient way
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and adapt to changing priorities
• Prior people management experience
Compensation and Benefits
The full-time salary range for this position is $130,000-160,000. The starting salary depends on factors that include background, years of experience, education level, and skill level.
PBS offers an employee benefit package that includes fully paid medical, dental, vision, life insurance plans, long-term disability insurance, flexible spending account and a generous retirement plan match. Eligibility rules apply.
To Apply
Qualified, interested candidates may apply for the position through the online Phillips Brooks Employment Website. Please submit your application information - letter of interest, a CV/resume with your relevant experience and expertise, and contact information for three professional references (include supervisors).
Phillips Brooks School is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All aspects of employment at PBS are governed on the basis of competence, merit, and qualifications. We do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and experiences — including those with professional experience outside the field of education — who share our commitment to fostering a vibrant, inclusive school community.
About Phillips Brooks School
Phillips Brooks School is a vibrant and innovative Early Learning Center (ELC) to 5th grade school committed to fostering a love of learning in a supportive and inclusive environment. Located on a beautiful campus in Menlo Park, California and serving 300 students, we instill values of courage, kindness, community, and a passion for lifelong learning.
For more information about Phillips Brooks School, visit our website at: Phillips Brooks School.
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