What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Facilities position at Orleans Parish Sheriff'?
Position Title: Director of Facilities
Agency: Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO)
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Reports To: Chief Deputy
Civil Service Status: Unclassified (at-will)
Position Summary
The Operations Director is responsible for the strategic oversight, management, and daily operations of critical institutional support services within the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. This includes Sanitation, Warehouse, Food Services (Kitchen), and Facilities Maintenance operations. The Director ensures all systems operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, while supporting the overall mission of maintaining a secure and humane correctional environment.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership
- Provide leadership and direction across multiple operational divisions: Sanitation, Warehouse, Kitchen, and Facilities Maintenance.
- Develop and implement policies, procedures, and performance standards to ensure operational efficiency and accountability.
- Coordinate activities to ensure seamless support of correctional facility operations.
Facilities Maintenance Oversight
- Oversee all aspects of facility maintenance, including HVAC systems, central plant operations, electrical systems, plumbing, and general repairs.
- Ensure preventative maintenance programs are in place and executed effectively.
- Manage emergency repairs and ensure rapid response to critical system failures.
- Ensure compliance with safety codes and building regulations.
Food Services (Kitchen) Management
- Oversee food service operations to ensure compliance with nutritional standards, health regulations, and budgetary constraints.
- Ensure proper food storage, preparation, and distribution processes.
- Monitor vendor contracts and food supply logistics.
Sanitation & Environmental Services
- Direct sanitation operations to maintain a clean, safe, and compliant facility.
- Ensure adherence to health and sanitation standards, including waste management protocols.
- Implement infection control and environmental safety practices.
Warehouse & Inventory Management
- Oversee procurement, storage, and distribution of supplies and equipment.
- Ensure accurate inventory tracking and cost control.
- Develop systems to prevent loss, waste, or misuse of resources.
Budget & Financial Oversight
- Develop and manage departmental budgets across all operational areas.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining service quality.
Staff Leadership & Development
- Supervise and evaluate department managers and staff.
- Recruit, train, and develop team to ensure high performance and accountability.
- Promote a culture of professionalism, safety, and continuous improvement.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure all operations comply with OSHA, health department, fire safety, and correctional standards.
- Maintain documentation for audits, inspections, and accreditation processes.
- Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Public Administration, Facilities Management, Engineering, or a related field required (Master’s preferred).
Experience
- Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in operations, facilities management, or institutional services.
- Experience in correctional facilities, government, healthcare, or large-scale institutional environments strongly preferred.
- Licensed engineers strongly preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong knowledge of HVAC, electrical systems, central plant operations, and building maintenance.
- Understanding of food service operations and sanitation standards.
- Excellent leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage large teams and multiple priorities in a high-security environment.
- Strong financial and budget management skills.
- Familiarity with regulatory compliance standards.
Core Competencies
- Leadership & Accountability
- Operational Excellence
- Strategic Thinking
- Crisis Management
- Communication & Collaboration
- Integrity & Professionalism
Work Environment
- Work is performed in a correctional facility environment.
- May require availability for emergencies, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Exposure to mechanical systems, industrial equipment, and institutional settings.