Facilities Manager - Cook County in HILLSIDE, Illinois at Aspire Chicago

Empower Independence. Build Community. Change Lives.

About Aspire

Since 1960, Aspire has been creating boundless opportunities for people with disabilities. We believe in working together to pursue greater possibilities, foster meaningful connections, and build communities where everyone belongs. Every member of our team plays a role in advancing this mission!

The Role

The Facilities Manager reports to the Director, Facilities and Maintenance and oversees the completion of timely and accurate renovations, repairs, and maintenance across all Aspire buildings. This position supervises the Maintenance Technician while ensuring facilities, equipment, and safety systems are properly maintained and operational.

The Facilities Manager brings extensive knowledge of building maintenance, construction, and repair practices, along with the leadership skills needed to coordinate teams, contractors, and facility operations.

This is more than a facilities management role — it's an opportunity to help create safe, well-maintained environments that support Aspire's mission and the people we serve.

What You'll Do

Oversee Facility Operations & Maintenance

• Directs the overall repair, renovation, maintenance, janitorial and grounds activities necessary to operate and maintain the Aspire's Academy South, Shannon Center/HQ, and residential homes. This includes but is not limited to - electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, construction, carpentry, appliance repair, custodial, snow removal, landscaping work etc.
• Completes remodeling projects, repairs and preventive maintenance.
• Coordinates construction activities with contractors and team members.
• Schedules all preventive and routine maintenance and ensures its completion. Maintains accurate maintenance records.
• Adapts to changing circumstances and address unexpected challenges.

Lead & Develop the Facilities Team

• Performs ongoing supervising duties of assigned staff, including: assignment, prioritization and review of work; training; and disciplinary actions.
• Ability to successfully set clear expectations, set priorities, and delegate effectively.
• Holds individuals accountable for outcomes, while providing constructive feedback and support.

Manage Contractors, Vendors & Resources

• Sources and manages all external contractors' services and relationships in compliance with Aspire's procurement protocols.
• Procure and manage building maintenance inventory, ensuring proper storage, rotation, and organization of supplies and equipment.
• Schedules and oversees facility vendor and service contractor visits as needed.
• Obtain quotes and coordinates with third-party contractors for repairs or renovations.
• Assists VP and Director with developing capital improvement budgets.

Maintain Safety & Regulatory Compliance

• Ensures proper operation of all safety systems and compliance with local, state and federal environmental and safety requirements.
• Takes an active role on the Safety Committee and performs environmental safety inspections to catch potential issues before they escalate.
• Ensures DOL regulations, Life Safety codes and DHS-ORS guidelines are adhered to (regarding maintenance, transportation, and safety).
• Cooperation with quality improvement initiatives and protocols.

Coordinate Work Orders & Administrative Responsibilities

• Manages facilities & maintenance requests in Facility Tree software program and prioritizes work assignments for crews. Ensures that Facility Tree is used to it's fullest potential – keeping asset information updated within the system.
• Prepares administrative reports as assigned for special projects.
• Completes reports on accidents, vandalism, thefts, and threat assessments.
• Responsible for being on-call to ensure emergency repairs are completed in both Aspire buildings and residential homes.
• The employee may be asked to perform other duties as required by the employer's business needs.

Who You Are

• A leader who sets clear expectations, delegates effectively, and holds team members accountable while providing constructive feedback and support.
• Highly organized with strong analytical, time management, and prioritization skills.
• A strong communicator who builds effective working relationships with staff, contractors, and vendors.
• Adaptable and resourceful, with the ability to address unexpected challenges and keep projects moving forward.
• Committed to maintaining safe, compliant, and well-organized facilities.
• A team-oriented professional who takes initiative and supports continuous quality improvement.
• Passionate about including and empowering people of all abilities.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of five (5) years of construction or maintenance experience required.
• Minimum of three (3) years of supervisory experience required.
• Technical training or extensive hands-on experience required.
• Knowledge of building maintenance, construction, and repair, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and appliance repairs.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints.
• Ability to plan, organize, direct, and review staff activities and contractor services.
• Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook).

Preferred Qualifications

• Forklift certification
• Appliance repair experience

Required Skills, Abilities and Knowledge

• Knowledge of current practices of construction, maintenance and repairs in the areas of: HVAC, electricity; equipment/vehicle maintenance, carpentry, plumbing, appliance repairs, governmental codes and regulations related to safety, fire, construction, and public access; cognizant of fire, safety, and building codes.
• Ability to plan, organize, direct and review the activities of staff and professional service contracts.
• Ability to read and understand blueprints.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal and written communication skills.
• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, and Outlook) experience.

Why Aspire?

• Make a direct, visible impact by ensuring Aspire's buildings and residential homes remain safe, functional, and welcoming.
• Lead facilities operations that support quality services, safe environments, and the day-to-day needs of our organization.
• Be part of a mission-driven organization that values collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Use your leadership and technical expertise to maintain spaces where people with disabilities can thrive, connect, and build independence.

Full-Time Benefits (for employees regularly scheduled to work 37.5+ hours per week)

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Options
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick, and Personal Time)
• 13 Paid Holidays
• 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan with Employer Match
• Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Pet Insurance
• Annual performance reviews with opportunities to discuss compensation and professional growth

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you're passionate about leading facility operations, supporting a dedicated team, and ensuring Aspire's buildings and residential homes remain safe, functional, and welcoming, we'd love to hear from you!

Apply today and put your leadership and technical expertise to work supporting the people and communities Aspire serves.