Director of Skilled Trades

Posted: Tuesday, 03 March 2026
Valid Thru: Thursday, 02 April 2026
Index Requested on: 03/03/2026 20:20:39
Indexed on: 03/03/2026 20:20:39

Location: Norman, OK, 73019, US

Industry: Education
Occupational Category: 11-0000.00 - Management
Type of Employment: FULL_TIME

University of Oklahoma is hiring!

Description:

The Director of Skilled Trades will be responsible for customer-focused leadership and managing the operations, administration, and performance of the skilled trade departments, including Carpentry Services, Painting Services, Masonry, Roofing, Tuckpointing, General Services, Access Control, and Streets and Sidewalks within Facilities Management.

Duties:

  • Develops, plans, and implements goals and objectives for repair and maintenance activities within the skilled trade shops in Facilities Management.
  • Administers internal policies and procedures relating to repair and maintenance activities, interpreting and explaining applicable rules, laws, policies and procedures to supervisors and others.
  • Oversees and participates in the departmental work plan. Monitors work flow and project and work order status. Inspects job sites to monitor ongoing work, offering guidance as needed. Supporting the department's progress with internal strategic planning initiatives.
  • Reviews and evaluates work products, methods, and procedures. Studies and recommends procedures and practices to improve operational efficiency and customer service. Evaluates alternatives for performing needed work, including contracting out services where appropriate.
  • Monitors the use and inventories of spare parts, maintenance supplies, tools, and equipment. Participates in the evaluation and selection of materials, tools, equipment, and contract services.
  • Attends relevant meetings. Serves as departmental liaison to coordinate interdepartmental and intradepartmental administrative functions, as well as coordinating with the business community, other universities, and others on a regional and national basis, ensuring effective customer relations.
  • Supervises and oversees supervisors and team members performance management, hiring, terminating, training, evaluating, and conducting positive discipline.
  • Ensures that supervisors and team members are informed of and adhere to established health and safety practices, and department and university policies and procedures.
  • Executes special projects, researching and analyzing data, writing reports, and making recommendations to the Associate Vice President.
  • Performs various duties as needed to successfully fulfill the function of the position.

Responsibilities:

Please review the job description.

Educational requirements:

  • high school

Desired Skills:

Required Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in Management, Construction Management, or related field, AND:

  • 24 months progressive experience in repair, maintenance, and/or construction.

Equivalency/Substitution: Will accept 48 months of related experience in lieu of a Bachelor's degree for a total of 72 months related experience.

Skills:

  • Basic math and computer skills
  • Ability to accurately read and understand written materials and instructions
  • Read and understand complex written materials such as blueprints, metrics, or technical manuals
  • Detail oriented for accuracy of data and information
  • Highly organized and ability to handle multiple projects and deadlines
  • Ability to communicate verbally and in writing and build rapport with students, faculty and staff
  • Ability to produce reports and complete work within deadlines
  • Ability to work well with interdepartmental teams and initiatives
  • General office skills such as multi-line phone, copying, filing, faxing, and mail
  • Knowledge of the tools, materials, working practices, and methods required for facilities maintenance, operation, and light construction
  • Knowledge of purchasing and contract management practices
  • Knowledge of repair and maintenance procedures, light construction, supervision, and material and inventory control
  • Ability to effectively evaluate projects & programs and produce comprehensive reports
  • Ability to supervise staff and communication directions and expectations effectively
  • Ability to lead project teams and people development

Certifications:

  • Valid Oklahoma Driver's License in order to drive University vehicles or ability to obtain within 30 days from hire date.

Working Conditions:

  • Physical: Sitting for prolonged periods. Repetitive hand and wrist use. Prolonged standing and walking. Excessive stooping and bending. Climbing stairs.
  • Environmental: Exposure to odors, disagreeable tasks or conditions. Exposure to hazardous chemicals. May be designated as an "essential position" during emergency closures. May be required to carry a cell phone or pager and respond to campus emergencies, generally within one hour. May be required to remain on campus overnight during weather or other emergencies.

Department Preferences:

  • Experience in Facilities Management at a higher education institution
  • Experience leading and managing multiple teams

Supervision: Upwards of 50 team members across several skilled trades shops

Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy. To view the policy, visit https: //hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma values our community's unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. At OU, we aspire to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.

Benefits:

Please see the job description for benefits.

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