Director of Operations

SCOPE OF WORK:
Northwest Indian College (NWIC) is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and experienced leader to serve as the Director of Facilities, Security, Construction, and Information Services. This position provides high-level oversight and leadership for multiple operational departments, including Facilities (Maintenance, Housekeeping, Grounds, Vehicles, and Buildings), Campus Security, Construction Projects, and Information Services. The Director supervises and supports the managers and directors of each department, ensuring alignment with the college’s mission, strategic goals, and operational standards. In addition to departmental oversight, the Director plays a critical role in institutional risk management, working closely with internal and external stakeholders to assess liability exposures, manage insurance coverage, and implement proactive safety and compliance strategies. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

Leadership & Administration 
• Provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight to department heads in 
Facilities, Security, Construction, and Information Services. 
• Develop and implement departmental goals, policies, and procedures aligned with 
NWIC’s strategic plan. 
         o Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment that supports professional 
            development and operational excellence. 
• Lead regular meetings with department managers to review performance, address 
challenges, and coordinate cross-functional initiatives. 
• Ensure departments are operating efficiently, safely, and in compliance with college 
policies and applicable regulations. 

Facilities Management:
• Oversee the Facilities Director and assist in planning, maintenance, and operations of 
college buildings, grounds, vehicles, and custodial services. 
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations. 
• Manage contracts and relationships with vendors and service providers. 
• Develop and monitor budgets for facilities-related operations and capital improvements. 
• Implement preventative maintenance programs and sustainability initiatives. 

Security Operations:
• Supervise the Safety, Security and Compliance Manager and ensure effective campus 
safety protocols are in place. 
• Develop and maintain emergency response plans, including training and drills. 
• Coordinate with local law enforcement and emergency services to ensure campus 
readiness. 
• Monitor security systems and recommend upgrades as needed. 

Construction Oversight:
• Lead planning, budgeting, and execution of new construction and renovation projects.
         o Collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and internal stakeholders to 
ensure project success. 
• Ensure all construction activities comply with applicable codes, regulations, and 
institutional standards. 
• Monitor project timelines, budgets, and quality control measures.

Information Services:
• Supervise the Director of Information Services and provide strategic direction for IT 
infrastructure, systems, and support. 
        o Contribute to cybersecurity, data governance, and technology planning. 
        o Oversee the evaluation and implement emerging technologies to enhance 
institutional efficiency and service delivery. 
• Ensure that technology solutions support academic and administrative functions 
effectively. 

Risk Management:
• Serve as the primary liaison for institutional risk management and liability insurance 
matters. 
• Review and maintain insurance policies, ensuring adequate coverage for property, 
liability, cyber, and other risks. 
• Identify and assess operational risks across departments and develop mitigation 
strategies. 
• Coordinate training and awareness programs related to safety, compliance, and risk 
reduction. 

Qualifications: 
• Bachelor’s degree in Facilities Management, Business Administration, 
Information Technology, or related field (Master's preferred). 
• Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive leadership experience in facilities, security, 
IT, or construction management. 
• Demonstrated experience of supervising managers or directors across multiple 
operational areas. 
• Strong understanding of risk management principles and liability insurance. 
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects. 
• Excellent communication, organizational, and decision-making skills. 
• Experience working in tribal or higher education institutions is highly desirable. 
• Commitment to the mission and values of Northwest Indian College, including 
respect for Indigenous cultures and communities. 

Working Conditions: 
• Combination of office and field environments; travel between NWIC campuses may be 
required. 
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to respond to emergencies or 
project needs.

Tribal Preference: 
Northwest Indian College is a tribal college committed to serving Native communities. In accordance with the Indian Preference Act (Title 25, U.S. Code Section 472), preference in hiring is given to qualified Native American applicants. Applicants claiming Indian preference must submit documentation of tribal affiliation. 

APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested individuals should submit the following application materials directly to the NWIC 
Human Resources Office only. 
1. Cover letter addressing how you meet the position qualifications 
2. NWIC Application 
3. NWIC Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) form 
4. Current and complete professional resume
5. Copies of college transcripts (can submit unofficial copies at time of application) 
6. Three letters of recommendation from persons, who are not members of your immediate 
family, who have firsthand knowledge of your qualifications for the position.
7. If applicable to the position, provide copies of certificates/licenses/credentials.

The job announcement and application materials are available online at www.nwic.edu/jobs or 
may be requested from and submitted directly to: 
Northwest Indian College 
Attn: Human Resources 
2522 Kwina Road Bellingham, WA 98226 
employment@nwic.edu