Since 1959, DRI’s research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans’ impact on the environment to the environment’s effect on humans. DRI’s cutting-edge science and inspiring solutions support Nevada’s diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students/postdocs who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe.

Purpose of the Position

DRI, a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research, is seeking an exceptional leader to provide strategic and operational oversight for the facilities function. Reporting directly to the DRI President, the Director of Facilities will serve as a critical member of the senior leadership team. As such, they will play a key role in providing essential facilities and construction services on behalf of this world class research institute. The successful candidate will possess strong technical expertise, broad leadership experience, and a collaborative style that engenders trust.

The Director will be charged with overseeing the coordination, implementation, execution, and management of all major facilities functions on behalf of its main campuses in Las Vegas and Reno as well as satellites in Boulder City and Reno/Stead. With 22 buildings spread across 47 acres of land, the Director will oversee construction, maintenance, HVAC, carpentry, custodial, grounds, utilities and energy management systems as well as motor pool and mail services with the support of 30 staff. In addition to the main campuses and satellite facilities, the facilities department also provides assistance to DRI’s 319-acre Research Park which is adjacent to the Reno campus. While this position will be based in Reno, NV, it will require regular, monthly travel to DRI’s Las Vegas Campus.

Key Responsibilities

• Serves as a pivotal member of the DRI senior leadership team, providing subject matter expertise and strategic input on all facilities matters.

• Communicates broadly across the institution distilling complex facilities information and concepts to a broad array of stakeholders including the NSHE Board of Regent’s and legislators.

• Maintains the highest levels of integrity while adhering to strong ethical principles; high level of professionalism with a demonstrated ability to gain confidence at all levels.

• Possesses strong technical abilities including experience in construction, maintenance, HVAC, carpentry, custodial, grounds, utilities and energy management systems.

• Provides leadership for the facilities team, ensuring a diverse, equitable, inclusive, and accessible environment that fosters a productive, team-oriented work culture.

• Develops and implements a comprehensive and strategic vision for facilities, including master planning, preventative maintenance, resource allocation, regulatory compliance, and cost estimates.

• Oversees construction and design ensuring projects are on time and within budget as well as meet compliance with all applicable codes, regulations, architectural standards, and contractual requirements.

• Performs or facilitates inspections of all parts of the campus infrastructure including physical plant and grounds; approves renovations, maintenance, and installations.

• Ensures a strong, collaborative working relationship with staff from other departments to ensure facilities needs and problems are quickly communicated, identified, and resolved.

Experience and Professional Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture, or related field from an accredited institution along with a minimum of 10 years of increasing responsibility with building and facilities management experience.

• At least 5 years of direct supervision responsibilities including employee development, training, coaching, mentoring and performance evaluation.

• A highly respected leader with the ability to lead staff, manage resources, and maximize operational efficiency and effectiveness in a highly collaborative environment.

• A strong collaborator with excellent professional communications and interpersonal skills along with the ability to work effectively and diplomatically with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

• In-depth knowledge of safety protocols and procedures coupled with the ability to create a strong safety and compliance culture.

• Knowledge of the basic principles of budget preparation and controls, including deferred maintenance programs.

• Proven influential leadership, administrative, and problem-solving skills along with strong communication and interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to effectively present information to a broad set of constituents.

• Strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion as a foundational value central to the DRI’s mission.

• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively with senior administrators, faculty, and staff, balancing the diverse and sometimes competing interests, to proactively provide optimum solutions.

• Ability to produce, read, and interpret plans, schematics, and specifications, and working knowledge of materials, techniques and procedures used in the fields of carpentry, plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems.

• Strong technical skills including practical knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, AutoCAD (or similar computer aided design/drafting software).

• Experience with principles and practices of complex maintenance and security equipment.

Compensation

The minimum annual starting salary is $145,000 and is competitive and commensurate with education and experience. DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance; including 17.5% retirement match, 24 annual leave days, beginning balance of 30 sick leave days, 12 paid holidays, educational benefits, and the choice of three health insurance plans that can be supplemented with flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts. Additionally, there is no state income tax and no social security deduction.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility

DRI is deeply committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce and recognizes that encouraging a diverse culture strengthens problem solving skills and creativity and increases productivity. An inclusive and diverse environment improves the workplace culture and encourages employee engagement. DRI also takes measures consistent with Title IX to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its students, faculty, and staff. Additional information can be found at DRI's Diversity and Inclusion Webpage.

The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is an equal opportunity/ affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, political affiliation, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. DRI employs only U.S. citizens and persons lawfully authorized to work in the United States.