Assistant Director of Building Services & Operations

Posted:
2/9/2026, 4:00:00 PM

Location(s):
Chicago, Illinois, United States ⋅ Illinois, United States

Experience Level(s):
Senior

Field(s):
Operations & Logistics

Department

Library Administration - Facilities - Shipping Administration


About the Department

Widely known as guardian of one of the largest academic library collections in North America, the University of Chicago Library is redefining its role as a provider of services within an increasingly open global knowledge ecosystem. We value open and equitable access to knowledge, freedom of speech and inquiry, and working in partnership within and beyond the UChicago community. We are creating a working environment that embraces innovation and respect and that celebrates and develops staff.
As part of the University of Chicago, we offer a wide variety of strong benefits and programs to academics and staff. From a choice of comprehensive health plan options and wellness programs, short and long-term disability insurance, continuing education opportunities including educational assistance plans, competitive retirement plans and paid time off (vacation, personal and university holidays), we’re committed to providing benefits and a work environment that matters!


Job Summary

The Assistant Director for Building Services and Operations manages the Library’s Shipping and Receiving department by supervising 3 FTEs. This role also works closely with the Library Budget Director and Finance Manger to purchase and approve administrative orders. As Part of the Building Services team this position manages Building Services staff to complete tasks and in the absence of the Director of Building Services and Operations. The Assistant Director also serves as workday approver for the department and is the administrative liaison to Library Human Resources.

Responsibilities

  • Supervises Building Services and Shipping staff.

  • Establishes routes and schedules for both inside and outside messengers.

  • Oversees pick-up and distribution of U.S. Mail, packages, and books. Answers questions concerning postal regulations; ensures observance of regulations for domestic and international mail.

  • Responsible for the shipping department budget, including metered mail, the contracting of movers, and department supplies. 

  • Maintains and schedules pickups of gifts to the Library; accepts shipments and distributes to destination; contacts shipping companies to arrange for outgoing shipments; completes shipping forms, insurance forms, etc.

  • Serves as purchasing manager for the department and the Library at large.

  • Responsible for ensuring operation and regular maintenance of shipping & receiving equipment, including van, printers, carts, overhead doors, lifts, etc.; authorizes purchase of gas and other operating necessities; determines need and orders repair service; may drive vehicle in absence of regular messenger.

  • Supports routine building management and maintenance.

  • Assists in placing and monitoring status of work requests.

  • Assist with communication of work order status to Library staff.

  • Provides access and direction to facilities staff and contractors.

  • Provides support on Library building projects and initiatives.

  • Provides event services and planning support.

  • Hires, evaluates, and conducts performance evaluations. Plans and assigns work; exercises quality and quantity controls.

  • Maintains shipping and receiving activities and records. Resolves related shipping, receiving, and distribution problems. Coordinates with vendors and Budget to ensure that quality and pricing of suppliers and equipment meet expectations.

  • Performs other related work as needed.


Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience. (Required)


Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.


Certifications:

---

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

  • Associate Degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

  • At least one year related experience working in shipping and receiving.

  • At least one year of supervising bargaining unit staff.

  • At least one year building management experience.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:

  • Valid driver’s license.

  • Working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet and database software.

  • Ability to organize and communicate well with others.

  • Willing to assume responsibilities and make decisions.

  • Ability to handle public contacts with tact and courtesy.

  • Ability to work well under pressure.

  • Ability to communicate with courtesy and tact.

  • Problem-solving skills.

  • Ability to work under pressure.

  • Expert knowledge of multiple University systems; Buy site, Workday, Epayment, Eshipglobal and more.

  • Knowledge of building systems and infrastructure strongly preferred.

Working Conditions

  • Physical stamina and mobility.

  • Valid drivers license.

  • Ability to lift moderate to heavy weights up to 75lbs.

Application Documents

  • Resume (required)

  • Reference List (3) (required)


When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.


Job Family

Facilities Management


Role Impact

People Manager


Scheduled Weekly Hours

40


Drug Test Required

No


Health Screen Required

No


Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

Yes


Pay Rate Type

Salary


FLSA Status

Exempt


Pay Range

$70,000.00 - $80,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.


Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.


Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.