"Director of Buildings and Grounds"

Job Details

Landon School is an independent boys’ school in Bethesda, Maryland, serving students in Grades 3–12. Our 75-acre campus includes academic buildings, athletic facilities, faculty housing, and extensive grounds. We are committed to fostering a safe, efficient, and supportive environment that enhances the student, faculty, and community experience.

The Director of Buildings & Grounds is responsible for the leadership, management, and continuous improvement of the school’s facilities operations. This role ensures that all buildings, grounds, and event spaces are well maintained, safe, and ready to support academic, athletic, and community programs. Reporting to the CFO, the Director provides strategic oversight, supervises custodial, maintenance, and grounds staff, and partners with other departments to deliver high-quality services.

Key Responsibilities

Facilities & Grounds Management

• Oversee the maintenance, repair, and improvement of all campus facilities, athletic fields, and outdoor spaces.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance schedules and sustainability initiatives.
• Ensure all systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, lighting etc) are functioning and compliant with regulations.
• Conduct regular inspections and follow-up through the school’s work order system – Operations Hero.

Safety & Compliance

• Conduct safety checks and ensure fire exits and emergency systems are functional.
• Oversee and manage the safety and security protocols and drills.
• Collaborate with the security team on crowd management, drills, and compliance with safety standards.
• Maintain records of inspections, incidents, and compliance requirements.

Personnel & Team Management

• Staff Oversight: Lead and supervise custodial, maintenance, and grounds staff. Assign daily, weekly, and seasonal tasks, ensuring accountability through work order system - HERO.
• Scheduling & Coverage: Create and manage staffing schedules for routine operations, special events, and emergencies.
• Training & Development: Onboard new staff, train on safety protocols, and promote ongoing professional development (HVAC, electrical, custodial best practices).
• Performance Management: Conduct evaluations, provide feedback, address performance issues constructively, and recognize strong contributions.
• Communication & Coordination: Act as liaison between operations leadership and facilities team; collaborate with athletics, development, IT, security, and administration.
• Culture: Foster a respectful, inclusive, and accountable work environment that emphasizes teamwork and service.

Budgeting & Resource Management

• Develop and manage the Buildings & Grounds operating and PPRRSM Budgets.
• Track supplies, equipment, and vehicles; ensure timely maintenance and replacement.
• Oversee vendor relationships, negotiate service contracts, and ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Oversee all campus capital projects, ensuring high-quality execution and timely completion.
• Provide leadership and strategic input to the Buildings and Grounds Committee.

Event Support

• Pre-Event: Coordinate with event managers to prepare facilities, arrange furniture, confirm HVAC/lighting/sound, and ensure safety.
• During Event: Provide on-site support, monitor building systems, and coordinate with security for traffic and parking logistics.
• Post-Event: Oversee cleanup, trash/recycling, and restoration of facilities; document any incidents or repairs.
• Develop weather contingency plans and coordinate with vendors to ensure compliance with school policies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in operations, management, facilities management, engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 7–10 years of progressive experience in facilities, construction, logistics operations, or grounds management.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing teams, budgets, and vendor contracts.
• Strong knowledge of building systems, custodial practices, and safety compliance.
• Detail oriented with excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Company

Landon School is committed to the ethical, intellectual, and personal development of boys. We challenge and inspire them to think deeply, individually, and broadly; to live with respect and honor; and to grow into healthy, well-rounded men of integrity and character who seek to make a positive difference in the world around them.

Since 1929, Landon School has prepared generations of boys to become accomplished, responsible, and caring men.

Our program develops boys in Grades 3–12 as scholars and servant-leaders, as thinkers and creators, as men of character and commitment who are ready for college and life beyond. Our unwavering commitment to our faculty and their journey of learning allows them to grow and evolve as our boys do.

Company info

Website: http://www.landon.net/