Plant Operations Director

Location: Middlebury, Vermont
Department: Facilities / Plant Operations
Reports To: Senior Leadership, UVM Health Network

Position Overview

The Plant Operations Director is responsible for the overall leadership and operational management of building maintenance, biomedical services, and hazardous waste management across all client locations, including Helen Porter. This role ensures that all facilities, utility systems, and grounds are maintained in a safe, compliant, and high-functioning condition while meeting all regulatory, accreditation, and safety requirements.

The Director provides vision, direction, and hands-on leadership to the Plant Operations teams, partnering with other PMC and UVM Health Network leaders to ensure optimal facility performance, safety standards, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operations Management

• Provide full departmental leadership over Plant Operations, including maintenance, biomed, and hazardous waste functions.

• Oversee all plant operations activities, ensuring efficient execution of preventive and corrective maintenance.

• Lead, coach, and evaluate the performance of the Plant Operations Manager and technical staff.

• Establish departmental goals, budgets, staffing plans, and operating procedures.

Regulatory Compliance & Safety

• Ensure full compliance with CMS, OSHA, Joint Commission, NFPA Life Safety Codes, and all applicable state/federal regulations.

• Maintain documentation and readiness for surveys and regulatory inspections.

• Oversee hazardous materials management and environmental safety programs.

• Maintain safe hospital and campus facilities for patients, staff, and visitors.

Technical & Facility Systems Oversight

• Oversee maintenance and performance of critical building systems including:

  • HVAC, boilers, chillers

  • Electrical systems

  • Plumbing systems

  • Medical gas systems

  • Fire and life safety systems

  • Utility infrastructure

• Ensure reliability and uptime for clinical and operational systems across all PMC locations.

Strategic Planning & Collaboration

• Partner with UVM Health Network Facilities Leadership Council on system-wide initiatives.

• Participate in capital planning, facilities budgeting, and technology upgrades.

• Work cross-departmentally to support construction, renovations, and facility-related projects.

• Implement cost-control measures, productivity enhancements, and operational improvements.

Must-Have Qualifications

1. Minimum 5 years of Facilities Leadership experience in plant operations, maintenance, or facility management.

2. Working knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, boilers, hazardous materials, and safety programs.

3. Strong understanding of healthcare facility regulations (CMS, OSHA, NFPA Life Safety).

4. Excellent communication, team leadership, and project management skills.

5. Proven experience in business strategy execution, cost control, and operating in politically sensitive or complex environments.

Nice-To-Have Qualifications

1. Healthcare facility operations experience (preferred).

2. CHFM certification Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (AHA).

3. College degree in maintenance, engineering, or a technical trade; State licensure preferred.