What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Facilities & Construction position at Sonwil?
About the job
Why Sonwil
For nearly 40 years, Sonwil Logistics has been a trusted leader in delivering end-to-end logistics and transportation solutions across North America. Headquartered in Buffalo, NY, we provide a full suite of services — including 3PL, warehousing, fulfillment, and value-added services — supporting many of the Global 500 brands.
Our success is built on innovation, reliability, and a relentless focus on helping our customers solve real-world supply chain challenges. At Sonwil, you’ll join a team that values initiative, integrity, and continuous improvement. We offer competitive compensation, professional growth opportunities, and the chance to make a measurable impact in a fast-growing logistics organization that’s redefining how freight and fulfillment are done.
Position Overview
The Director of Facilities & Construction will serve as a strategic and hands-on leader responsible for the planning, operation, and maintenance of all Sonwil facilities and infrastructure assets. This role oversees the design, construction, renovation, and ongoing upkeep of all properties—ensuring safety, compliance, and operational excellence.
The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in facilities management, construction oversight, sustainability practices, and vendor relations, with the ability to balance day-to-day operational needs and long-term capital planning. This individual will play a key role in optimizing Sonwil’s built environment to support the company’s continued growth and success.
Core Responsibilities
Facilities Operations & Maintenance
- Oversee the operation and maintenance of all building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, structural, and fire/life safety systems.
- Ensure preventive and predictive maintenance programs are executed to maximize asset life and performance.
- Manage custodial, landscaping, snow removal, and other essential building services to ensure safe, well-maintained facilities.
Construction & Capital Projects
- Lead all planning, budgeting, permitting, and execution phases for construction, renovation, and tenant improvement projects.
- Collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely, on-budget project delivery.
- Oversee bid processes, evaluate proposals, negotiate contracts, and manage change orders.
- Ensure that all construction and capital projects meet Sonwil’s standards of safety, quality, and cost efficiency.
Compliance, Safety & Risk Management
- Maintain full compliance with OSHA, ADA, NFPA, environmental, and local building codes.
- Oversee safety programs, emergency preparedness, and incident response procedures across all Sonwil facilities.
- Ensure all vendors and contractors adhere to company and regulatory safety requirements.
Budget & Vendor Management
- Develop and manage annual facilities operating and capital budgets.
- Monitor expenditures, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure fiscal responsibility.
- Negotiate and manage vendor agreements for maintenance, construction, and specialized technical services.
- Establish strong relationships with key suppliers and service providers to optimize quality and value.
Strategic Planning & Sustainability
- Lead energy management and sustainability initiatives to reduce environmental impact and operating costs.
- Develop and maintain multi-year facilities and capital master plans aligned with Sonwil’s growth strategy.
- Ensure accurate documentation, drawings, and maintenance logs are maintained for all assets.
Qualifications & Skills
Education & Credentials
- Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
- Certified Facility Manager (CFM), LEED AP, PMP, or similar credentials strongly preferred.
- HVAC, Electrical, or Plumbing certification a plus.
Experience
- Minimum 8 years in facilities management, construction, or engineering leadership roles.
- Proven track record delivering multi-million-dollar construction or renovation projects on time and within budget.
- Experience managing multiple facilities in manufacturing, logistics, or commercial sectors.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and lead high-performing maintenance and construction teams.
Technical Knowledge
- Strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, and structural systems, including fire/life safety and HVAC systems.
- Proficiency in CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems) and familiarity with building automation systems (BAS).
- Knowledge of sustainability standards and energy-efficiency best practices.
Leadership & Soft Skills
- Exceptional organizational, budgeting, and vendor management skills.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities, with the ability to collaborate across all organizational levels.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage competing priorities effectively.
- Strategic thinker with hands-on execution skills and a strong sense of accountability.
Why Sonwil?
At Sonwil, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the company’s next phase of growth while helping our people and operations thrive. We’re looking for leaders who combine strategic thinking with hands-on execution—and who share our passion for innovation, accountability, and teamwork.
Join us and make a lasting impact on a company that’s built on integrity, performance, and continuous improvement.
Salary : $98,000 - $138,000