Director of Plant Operations of Skilled Nursing Facility

Overview

A Plant Operations Manager in a skilled nursing facility oversees the physical plant, ensures regulatory compliance (Life Safety, CMS, OSHA), and directs maintenance and grounds. They manage facility budgets, preventive maintenance programs, and emergency preparedness, ensuring a safe, comfortable environment for vulnerable residents. Key Responsibilities

• Regulatory Compliance: Maintain rigorous adherence to NFPA Life Safety Codes, CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services), and state survey regulations. 
• Preventive Maintenance: Design and execute routine preventive and corrective maintenance schedules for critical equipment, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and nurse call systems. 
• Life Safety Systems: Oversee and document routine testing of fire alarms, sprinkler systems, emergency generators, and smoke doors. 
• Staff Leadership: Supervise, train, and schedule the maintenance and environmental services team ( Laundry, Maintenance, and Housekeeping departments)
• Budget & Vendor Management: Manage departmental budgets, track inventory, and negotiate contracts with outside vendors for specialized repairs or capital improvement projects.
• Emergency Preparedness: Lead the facility's safety committee and execute emergency disaster plans for events like power outages or severe weather.

Typical Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or GED required. Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in facilities management, engineering, or a related field is highly preferred. 
• Experience: 3–5 years of progressive maintenance/plant operations experience, including 1–2 years in a supervisory role. Healthcare or long-term care experience is strongly preferred.
• Technical Skills: Working knowledge of building trades, including carpentry, painting, drywall, and mechanical systems.