Facilities Manager

POSITION SUMMARY
The Facilities Manager is responsible for the effective operation, maintenance, and improvement of the Company’s facilities, including laboratory spaces, office areas, and other operational buildings. This role will support a safe, compliant, and productive environment for research, development, and production activities. The Facilities Manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the proper functioning of equipment, utilities, and systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and waste management systems.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Facility Operations & Maintenance:
   • Oversee the maintenance of the facility, ensuring all areas are safe, clean, and functional.
   • Coordinate the preventive maintenance schedule for HVAC systems, electrical systems, plumbing, and other essential equipment.
   • Supervise facility repairs and upgrades, working with contractors and vendors.
   • Maintain a comprehensive inventory of supplies and equipment to ensure readiness for daily operations.
2. Safety and Compliance:
   • Ensure that the facility complies with all applicable health, safety, and environmental regulations, including OSHA and environmental safety standards.
   • Lead safety audits and inspections, managing corrective actions as necessary.
   • Work with regulatory agencies (FDA, EPA, etc.) to ensure facility compliance with industry standards, particularly in the handling and disposal of hazardous materials.
   • Develop and maintain emergency plans, including evacuation procedures and safety drills.
3. Laboratory and Equipment Support:
   • Manage the upkeep and calibration of critical lab equipment and systems.
   • Ensure proper storage, labeling, and disposal of chemicals, biological materials, and waste in compliance with regulations.
   • Support lab space configuration, ensuring facilities meet the requirements for new research and product development.
4. Budget and Cost Management:
   • Develop and manage the facilities budget, ensuring that expenditures are controlled and within allocated limits.
   • Oversee contracts with external vendors, suppliers, and service providers to ensure cost-effective solutions.
5. Project Management:
   • Lead or coordinate facility-related projects such as laboratory expansion, renovation, or system upgrades.
   • Work with engineering, research, and construction teams to manage space planning, construction, and facility improvements.
6. Team Leadership and Vendor Management:
   • Supervise and mentor a team of facilities technicians, janitorial staff, and contractors as the company grows.
   • Manage relationships with third-party service providers, ensuring they meet contractual obligations and service level agreements.
7. Sustainability and Efficiency:
   • Identify and implement energy-efficient and sustainability initiatives within the facility.
   • Oversee waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable building practices in the facility.
8. Reporting and Documentation:
   • Maintain detailed records of maintenance, repairs, compliance, and safety inspections.
   • Provide regular reports to senior management on the status of facilities, including potential risks, budget status, and facility needs.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Proven experience (typically 5+ years) in facilities management within a biotech, pharmaceutical, or laboratory environment.
• Strong knowledge of building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, etc.) and regulatory standards (OSHA, FDA, etc.).
• Experience in managing budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships.
• Familiarity with laboratory operations and safety protocols, including the handling of hazardous materials.
• Strong problem-solving, project management, and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate with multiple teams and stakeholders.

DESIRED KEY COMPETENCIES

• Certification in Facilities Management (e.g., CFM, FMP).
• Knowledge of sustainability initiatives in facility management.
• Experience with laboratory-specific facility challenges (e.g., cleanrooms, biosafety).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to inspect and assess facilities, including spaces with equipment and laboratory setups.
• Ability to occasionally lift heavy objects and participate in hands-on maintenance tasks.
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WORKING CONDITIONS

• Office and laboratory environments.
• Potential for on-call duties or extended hours during emergencies or facility issues.
• Exposure to heat, noise, large animals, and chemicals, within safe limits.
• Breathing through face mask/respirators as conditions demand.

This role plays a crucial part in maintaining a safe, efficient, and compliant environment for Cytotheryx research and manufacturing activities, contributing to the overall success of the Company’s operations.