Director of Safety and Operations

Description

The McGillis School, an established, independent K-8 school in Salt Lake City, Utah has an opening for a full-time Director of Safety & Operations beginning in August of 2026.

Our mission is to educate children and instill in our students a love of learning and the abilities to think critically, live ethically, and appreciate the value of each individual. Our school is built on the premise that diversity, equity, and inclusion matter. As a school founded on Jewish values, culture, and history, we understand how vital it is to hear, understand, and learn from those who have been marginalized. We believe a diverse, inclusive community is essential to a rich educational experience, and we support each person in our community to reach their full potential. Commitment to this work is crucial for the long-term

Position Description

Reporting to the Head of School and serving as a member of the leadership team, the Director of Safety and Operations oversees and directs all school safety, security, and operational functions to ensure a safe, efficient, and well-maintained campus for students, faculty, and staff. This role balances leadership of campus safety (2 campuses) and security programs with oversight of facilities, grounds, custodial, and transportation operations. The position requires a highly visible presence in the school community, a proactive approach to risk management, and strong collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Safety and Security Leadership

• Develop and implement the school’s safety and security protocols
• Stay informed on federal, state, and local safety and security requirements for schools, ensuring compliance and liaising with relevant agencies as needed
• Provide a visible security presence by patrolling campus buildings and grounds
• Promote a culture of safety through prevention, awareness, and relationship-building
• Build positive, trusted relationships with students, faculty, staff, and all members of the McGillis community
• Collaborate with local law enforcement and public safety agencies
• Direct all safety-related and emergency preparedness planning and training
• Develop and implement proactive crisis prevention and response plans
• Organize and oversee emergency drills (fire, earthquake, shelter-in-place, lockdown)
• Lead campus safety training, including OSHA compliance and best practices
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of safety and security techniques, policies, and procedures
• Communicate regularly with school stakeholders regarding safety matters
• Act as a first responder on campus to safety or security concerns

Facilities and Security Systems Oversight

• Oversee building security systems, including alarms, cameras, access control, and visitor management
• Support maintenance of fire alarm and life safety systems
• Ensure proper functionality and integration of all campus safety infrastructure

Operations Leadership

• Oversee school operations, including facilities, custodial, and transportation
• Supervise the maintenance team, and provide guidance, accountability, and support
• Establish and manage vendor relationships and service contracts
• Oversee maintenance of building systems including HVAC, plumbing, and electricalCoordinate with colleagues on the safety and operational needs of events
• Coordinate with Athletics Faculty on athletic event safety & security

Strategic and Administrative Responsibilities

• Collaborate with school leadership to align operational strategies with institutional goals
• Oversee daily campus operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness
• Ensure compliance with all applicable health laws, building codes, safety requirements, and federal/state regulations
• Coordinate all phases of maintenance and construction projects, from planning through completion
• Maintain readiness to respond to emergencies, including weather events and crisis situations (24/7 availability as needed)

Minimum Job Requirements

• Ten or more years of experience in school or commercial security, law enforcement, facilities management, operations, or a related field
• Demonstrated comfort to work effectively with school population across all age groups
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to think critically and respond effectively in high-pressure situations
• Eligibility to become a licensed Security Officer in Utah: State of Utah Licensing 

Hours and Compensation

• This is a full-time, exempt position, reporting to the Head of School
• Salary for this position is based on experience and qualifications. Benefits include a retirement plan, health insurance, and a pleasant working environment.
• Flexibility required to work occasional varied hours for special events including evenings and weekends.