Area Manager, FAS Libraries Facilities

Job Summary:

The Office of Physical Resources & Planning (OPRP) provides complete and integrated planning and design services, construction management, and building renewal, maintenance and operations management to maintain the physical resources of the FAS campus. To accomplish this mission, OPRP relies on a unique set of IT systems and applications to fulfill its day-to-day business needs.

The Area Manager is responsible for the strategic and day-to-day management of building operations across the FAS and Harvard Library portfolios. This role oversees facility operations, building systems, maintenance, security, compliance, and capital planning for a complex portfolio of academic and research libraries including: Widener, Lamont, Pusey, Houghton, Tozzer, Yenching, Fine Arts/Littauer, Loeb Music, Cabot/Science Center, Statistics/Science Center, Math/Science Center, Carpenter Center, Harvard Film Archive, Audio Preservation (Story St.), Jefferson Lab, 90 Mt. Auburn St., 8 Story St., and the Harvard Depository.

The position ensures reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of facilities while supporting long-term asset preservation, sustainability goals, and programmatic needs.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Facilities Operations & Portfolio Management

• Direct all aspects of facilities operations, including building systems, maintenance, custodial services, security, and support services across ~1M SF of library space.

• Manage a combined operating and capital budget of ~$11M across FAS and Harvard Library locations.

• Ensure delivery of high-quality, consistent building services aligned with institutional standards and user needs.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all facilities-related issues, including emergencies, major repairs, and operational disruptions.

• Identify cost efficiencies and support cost-reduction initiatives without compromising service quality.

Leadership & Staff Oversight

• Lead, supervise, and develop a team of facilities staff, including building managers, administrative staff, security personnel, and third-party contractors.

• Provide performance management, coaching, and operational direction to ensure accountability and service excellence.

Building Systems & Maintenance

• Oversee operation and monitor performance of critical building systems, including complex HVAC, electrical, life safety, and security systems.

• Establish and manage preventive maintenance programs, work order processes, and service level expectations.

• Monitor system performance through CMMS and building automation systems to ensure reliability and efficiency.

Capital Planning & Asset Management

• Develop and implement long-range capital and lifecycle plans for building systems and infrastructure.

• Support planning and execution of renovations and capital projects in coordination with OPRP and Library leadership

• Evaluate deferred maintenance and prioritize investments based on risk, condition, and program needs.

Security & Risk Management

• Oversee comprehensive security program across all library locations.

• Partner with Harvard University Police Department and external agencies on security planning and incident response.

• Lead responses to emergencies, incidents, and business continuity events.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure compliance with all applicable codes, regulations, and university policies (life safety, fire protection, environmental health, etc.).

• Coordinate inspections, audits, and corrective actions.

• Maintain and strengthen safety programs and protocols across the portfolio.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with library leadership, faculty, and administrative stakeholders to align facilities operations with programmatic needs.

• Serve on senior administrative and cross-functional teams supporting strategic initiatives.

• Maintain strong working relationships with Harvard Library leadership (dotted-line reporting structure).

Sustainability & Efficiency

• Partner with OPRP and the Harvard University Office for Sustainability to advance energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction goals and, implement best practices in sustainable operations and maintenance.

Working Conditions:  This is an on-campus critical position.

Physical Requirements: Position requires moving throughout multiple buildings daily and visiting all types of building spaces including offices, labs, mechanical rooms, building roofs and stairs. Ability to climb a ladder for above ceiling inspection. Available on call for after-hours emergencies