Director of Facilities, Security & Projects

Phoenix, AZ (SARRC Campus Locations)

Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) is looking for a strategic, hands-on Director of Facilities, Security & Projects. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for ensuring our physical environments are safe, functional, and optimized to support our mission of advancing research and providing services to individuals with autism.

The Director will be the architect of our physical infrastructure, overseeing everything from daily maintenance and high-level security protocols to the execution of major capital projects and campus expansions.

Core Skills & Responsibilities

Strategic Facilities & Asset Management

• Preventative Oversight: Develop and execute a comprehensive maintenance program for all buildings, grounds, and HVAC systems. Develop and execute a comprehensive enterprise facilities strategy aligned with SARRC’s operational growth and long-term strategic plan.
• Asset Lifecycle: Manage the procurement, maintenance, and eventual replacement of high-value agency assets and equipment.
• Vendor Relations: Negotiate and manage contracts with external service providers, ensuring high quality and cost-effectiveness.
  
  

Security & Risk Mitigation

• Safety Protocols: Design and implement robust security measures, including security code files, surveillance systems, and emergency response plans.
• Compliance: Ensure all properties meet local, state, and federal safety regulations (OSHA, ADA, Fire Marshall) and serve as liaison between agencies.
• Training: Lead staff training on facility safety and security best practices.
  
  

Capital Project Leadership

• Project Lifecycle: Lead the planning, design, and construction phases for all capital improvement projects and new facility developments.
• Budgeting: Manage large-scale project budgets, ensuring timelines are met without compromising on quality.
• Collaboration: Act as the primary liaison between SARRC leadership, architects, and general contractors.
  
  

Operational Leadership

• Team Management: Direct and mentor facilities staff, fostering a culture of safety, collaboration, and service across facilities staff and contractors.
• Financial Stewardship: Oversee the department’s annual operating budget, prioritizing needs to maximize resource efficiency.
• Strategic Advisory: Serve as the primary advisor to Executive Leadership, aligning facility expansion with SARRC’s long-term clinical and research goals while ensuring facilities support therapeutic and programmatic needs.
  
  

What You Bring

• Technical Expertise: A deep understanding of MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) systems and building automation.
• Project Management Mastery: Proven experience managing multi-million dollar capital projects.
• Analytical Problem Solving: The ability to pivot quickly when equipment fails or project scopes shift.
• Communication: Clear, professional communication skills to bridge the gap between technical contractors and non-technical stakeholders. Comfort with public speaking (e.g., community meetings), specifically in front of small, medium and large-sized groups.
• Mission-Alignment: A genuine passion for creating inclusive, accessible spaces for the autism community.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent with two-year vocational degree.
• 5 years of experience in facilities management and property security, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to travel between SARRC campuses.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management, Construction Management, or a related field (relevant certifications like CFM or PMP are a major plus).
  
  

Hours

Business hours of operation are Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm.

Salary

$105K

Benefits Package

• 8 paid holidays per year
• Up to 16 days per year Paid Time off
• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (majority of coverage paid for by SARRC)
• Professional development annual benefit of $1000
• 401(k) with 50% company match up to 6%
  
  

Our Story

Established in 1997, the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) is an internationally recognized nonprofit organization dedicated to autism research, education, evidence-based treatment, and community outreach. We are one of the only autism organizations in the world that provides a lifetime of services for individuals and their families while also conducting cutting edge research.