Assistant Director of Building Operations

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) is a dynamic, mission-driven cultural institution dedicated to nurturing creativity, curiosity, and lifelong learning in children and families. Through interactive exhibitions, educational programs, and community partnerships, CMOM serves diverse audiences across New York City and beyond, creating meaningful experiences that inspire and empower young minds. 

CMOM is entering a transformational moment. Over the next several years, CMOM will grow awareness and deepen community connection at its current home while building momentum toward the opening of a landmark new museum on 96th Street. This role offers a rare opportunity to join a small, high-impact team, shaping both the present and future of one of New York’s most beloved cultural institutions. 

The Assistant Director of Building Operations supports the general upkeep and maintenance of the building to ensure it meets health and safety standards, and the legal/compliance requirements. During emergency situations and severe inclement weather, this position is designated as essential and critical to the operations of CMOM, in keeping the grounds and entryways safe for guests and staff.  

• →

  Responsible for assisting the Director of Building Operations with ensuring basic facilities, such as water, heating and electrical systems, are well-maintained, and the building meets all health and safety regulations 

• →

  The Assistant Director of Building Operations will eventually be responsible for Security so that the opening and closing of the building lives in one vertical 

• →

  Responds to any queries regarding building maintenance and sourcing local contractors to fix issues  

• →

  Must be comfortable working with the hazards associated with mechanical and electrical spaces, confined spaces, and heights  

• →

  Assist Director of Building Operations in monitoring and overseeing the work of external contractors to ensure terms of agreements are met and work is completed satisfactorily. Closely shadow external specialized contractors on-site to ensure they do not damage the building's vintage framework 

• →

  Provide leadership and operational oversight to Building Technicians, stepping in for the Director of Building Operations as needed 

• →

  Assists with complex repairs on aging mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems alongside the technician 

• →

  Troubleshoots older, finicky systems that automated systems might not catch 

• →

  Acts as point person for hands-on first responder for urgent facility failures, leaks, or power issues 

• →

  Walks the property daily to spot maintenance needs, assigns tasks to the technician, or tackles them personally 

• →

  Keeps the Director constantly informed of daily building conditions and mechanical performance 

• →

  Serves as the friendly, accessible point of contact for staff experiencing facility issues 

• →

  Maintains accurate logs of required safety inspections (boilers, fire alarms, elevators) for the Director's records 

• →

  Heavy emphasis on practical, hands-on trades experiences (HVAC, plumbing, electrical)  

• →

  Must be a self-starter who is comfortable working alone or in a tiny team without constant instruction 

• →

  In conjunction with the Director of Buildings, inspects building structures to determine the need for repairs or renovations 

• →

  Responsible for maintenance of equipment and tools, makes minor repairs (within demonstrated capability) as directed. Assists in managing the upkeep of equipment and supplies to meet health and safety standards 

• →

  Obtain quotes and tenders from vendors and suppliers  

• →

  Review service contracts to ensure facility management needs are being met 

• →

  Participation in 361 Central Park West conversations as we build our future home  

• →

  Prepare orders for cleaning supplies  
   

• Ability to manage a varied and complex workload and have technical knowledge of building systems and services 

• Ability to make sound decisions quickly and effectively in a fast-paced environment 

• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills 

• Detail oriented  

• Excellent organizational skills, professional, time management skills and the ability to prioritize  

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team environment and to carry out projects independently  

• Fire Warden Certification required (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe, if applicable) 

• Electrical license preferred or currently in the process of obtaining one 

• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in facilities maintenance or building operations 

Salary: $67,000-$75,000 

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical (free employee coverage; premium options for dependents), dental, vision, 403(b), life insurance, EAP, paid holidays, and generous PTO. CMOM employees also receive free admission to select NYC cultural institutions. 
 

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage people from all backgrounds, ages, abilities, and experiences to apply. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If, due to a disability, you need an accommodation during any part of the interview process, please let us know.