BUILDING SUPERVISOR JOB DESCRIPTION

See what Building Supervisor roles look like across industries, including the responsibilities, qualifications, and trade backgrounds employers typically seek.

Building Supervisor Job Description Template

1. About the Role

Facilities maintenance never stops. A supervisor who cannot translate planned preventative maintenance schedules into daily crew action, or who lets compliance obligations slip past contractor handoffs, creates cascading disruption across every occupied floor of a building. The Building Supervisor holds that accountability, overseeing trade staff, subcontractors, and vendor relationships to keep complex facilities operating within statutory and client-mandated standards. In healthcare and airport environments especially, adherence to HTM guidelines and PFI concession requirements is non-negotiable. Few roles demand this breadth of technical literacy paired with this degree of operational accountability.

2. Position Summary

As the Building Supervisor, you are accountable for the day-to-day coordination of maintenance operations, ensuring all building trade activities meet statutory obligations, client service agreements, and safety standards across the full facility portfolio. You will operate within a structured facilities management or estates team, typically reporting to a Technical Services Manager or Facilities Director, with direct oversight of in-house technicians and outsourced contractors.

3. Why Join Us

Career Impact: Accumulating verified experience in statutory compliance environments, particularly NHS Trusts or PFI-governed facilities, positions a Building Supervisor for progression into Technical Services Manager or Estates Manager roles that command senior compensation.

Business Impact: The occupants of hospitals, schools, and commercial complexes depend on uninterrupted building systems; a supervisor who keeps planned preventative maintenance on schedule directly determines whether those environments remain safe and operational.

Growth Opportunity: Managing both directly employed trade staff and external contractors builds a breadth of contract oversight and workforce planning skills that translate into senior facilities or estate management appointments.

4. Key Responsibilities

  • Coordinate daily maintenance activities of in-house technicians and subcontractors to ensure planned and reactive works are completed on schedule.
  • Supervise site inspections, vendor handovers, and contractor performance to confirm work meets specification and safety standards.
  • Enforce compliance with statutory regulations, OSHA requirements, NHS Trust guidelines, and applicable HTM codes across all building trade activities.
  • Review and schedule planned preventative maintenance programmes, monitoring progress against plan and escalating delays to senior management.
  • Monitor materials, equipment, and spare parts inventory to minimize wastage and ensure timely availability for maintenance works.
  • Prepare condition survey reports, work order documentation, and maintenance logs, submitting records accurately and within required timeframes.
  • Liaise with client representatives and stakeholder groups to manage service expectations and resolve facility-related concerns at the operational level.
  • Support estimates and scoping for minor capital or remedial works as directed by the Technical Services Manager.

5. Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in facilities management, civil engineering, building technology, or equivalent work experience.
  • 3 or more years of building maintenance supervisory experience, with demonstrated oversight of trade staff and subcontractors.
  • Working knowledge of planned preventative maintenance systems and statutory compliance frameworks applicable to commercial or institutional facilities.
  • Ability to read and interpret maintenance specifications, technical drawings, and contract documentation.
  • Demonstrated competence in health and safety management, including risk assessment and incident reporting.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to brief staff, prepare reports, and liaise professionally with client representatives.

6. Preferred Qualifications

  • NVQ Level 3 or BTEC qualification in a relevant building trade or facilities management discipline.
  • Prior experience in a healthcare, airport, or similarly regulated facilities environment, including familiarity with HTM or PFI requirements.
  • Experience managing computerized maintenance management systems for scheduling and record-keeping.
  • Exposure to financial controls, including budget monitoring and contractor invoice validation.

7. Success Metrics & Environment

  • Planned preventative maintenance completion rate, measuring scheduled task adherence against the agreed programme.
  • Contractor response and rectification times against SLA thresholds defined in the client or PFI agreement.
  • Work order close-out rate within defined periods, reflecting throughput of reactive and planned maintenance tasks.
  • Compliance audit pass rate, tracking adherence to statutory, NHS Trust, or client-mandated inspection requirements.
  • Incident and near-miss reporting volume, indicating safety culture and regulatory accountability within the supervised team.
  • Typical tools: CMMS/work order platforms (commonly Maximo or equivalent); scheduling and reporting software.

8. Compensation & Benefits (US Market Benchmark)

  • Base Salary Range: $55,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on seniority and sector
  • Bonus: Annual performance bonus, typically 5% to 10% of base salary
  • Equity: Rarely offered; stock options uncommon in this sector
  • Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage standard
  • PTO: 10 to 15 days annually, plus public holidays
  • Common Perks: Uniforms or PPE provided, vehicle allowance, and continuing education support


Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

9. EEO & Legal

Work authorization in the United States is required for this position. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include criminal history and, where applicable, drug screening consistent with the regulated facility environment. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under federal, state, or local law. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation during the application or employment process should notify the hiring team in writing.

Building Supervisor Job Description Examples

1. Building Supervisor (Insurance Restoration)

The Building Supervisor owns end-to-end coordination of restoration and repair jobs, liaising between insurance companies and insured parties to keep projects on schedule and to a high standard. Working directly with trades and property owners, this role ensures timely resolution of on-site problems and maintains compliance across residential and commercial restoration projects.


Key Responsibilities

  • Engage, coordinate, and manage trades.
  • Communicate and negotiate with trades to track the progress of jobs.
  • Liaise between the insurance company and the insured party.
  • Coordinate access to properties with insured parties.
  • Manage restoration and repair jobs.
  • Ensure work is completed on time and to a high standard.
  • Resolve any problems.


Required Qualifications

  • Trade background in carpentry or a related building discipline.
  • QLD Builders License required.
  • Experience in a supervisory role managing multiple jobs is beneficial but not essential.
  • Insurance building background and residential or commercial experience would be advantageous.
  • Familiarity with OHS practices and regulations.
  • Strong time management, organisational, and communication skills.
  • Full driving licence required.

2. Building Supervisor (Member Services & Facility Operations)

Embedded within the Evening and Weekend Keyholder team, the Building Supervisor leads staff and volunteers across all branch programs and facility operations in the absence of Director-level staff, upholding a member-first culture through direct service and on-the-spot recognition. Working closely with the Membership Director, this role ensures safety standards are met, shift documentation is completed, and every team member actively builds relationships with members and guests.


Core Functions

  • Oversee all programs and facility operations of the branch in the absence of Director-level staff.
  • Review that all staff are at their posts and are supported.
  • Address all member concerns as the first point of contact, providing solutions and documenting outcomes with the Membership Director.
  • Engage members and build relationships throughout the shift.
  • Remind staff of ways to demonstrate the Y's purpose and use on-the-spot recognition.
  • Complete an end-of-shift report and submit electronically to the Membership Director.
  • Manage opening and closing of the branch facility and monitor security procedures and facility operations during assigned shifts.
  • Serve as primary responder to all security and fire alarms, incidents, and accidents, submitting reports as needed.


Qualifications & Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • CPR/AED and First Aid certification required upon hire, with training provided.
  • 3 or more years of member or customer service, hospitality, or related experience.
  • Knowledge of YMCA policies, procedures, and member-first best practices.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office applications and able to learn database programs with training provided.
  • Ability to lead others, make quick decisions, and work independently without direct supervision.
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
  • Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and respond to emergencies.

3. Building Supervisor (Campus Recreation & Events)

Reporting to professional PERA department staff, the Building Supervisor delivers primary supervision of the Sports and Recreation Center during weekends, early mornings, and evenings, overseeing Control Desk workers, intramural staff support, and campus-wide special events and rentals. Partnering with student employees and department leadership, this role ensures seamless facility operations, accurate financial processes, and a welcoming environment for all facility users.


Primary Duties

  • Provide primary supervision and support for the Sports and Recreation Center during weekends, early mornings, and evenings in the absence of professional staff.
  • Represent the PERA department as a visible and welcoming presence to all facility users, including rental and special event guests.
  • Assist with setup, maintenance, and cleanup for all campus-wide special events and rentals.
  • Handle all office communications including phones, messages, and inquiries from students, faculty, staff, and external visitors.
  • Supervise Control Desk workers and delegate tasks to student employees as needed.
  • Assist intramural staff and supervise Intercollegiate Club Sports home contests on weekends.
  • Coordinate financial processes including membership, locker rentals, and renewals in accordance with department accounting policies.
  • Assist in coordinating mandatory in-service trainings and participate in staff development workshops.


Skills & Qualifications

  • CPR and First Aid certification required or must be obtainable upon hire.
  • Criminal background check required.
  • Ability to work early mornings, evenings, and weekends reliably.
  • Competency in all aspects of Rec Sports programming, policies, and procedures.
  • Ability to respond to and manage medical emergencies following established protocol.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

4. Civil & Building Supervisor (Airport Facilities Maintenance)

Sitting at the intersection of civil project delivery and facilities maintenance, the Civil & Building Supervisor leads teams of technicians, masons, plumbers, and carpenters to execute preventive and corrective maintenance works and minor project works at an airport. Operating across in-house crews and outsourced vendors, this role optimizes manpower, equipment, and materials to ensure efficient, on-schedule task completion that keeps critical airport infrastructure operational.


Duties

  • Lead teams of technicians, masons, plumbers, carpenters, and assistant technicians to carry out preventive and corrective maintenance works and minor project works at an airport.
  • Supervise site coordination, inspections, and takeover of works undertaken by outsourced vendors, suppliers, and term contractors.
  • Optimize use of manpower, equipment, and materials to ensure efficient and timely task completion.
  • Plan daily work, monitor and track progress against schedule, and take mitigating action to ensure compliance with the plan.
  • Review quantities of materials, tools, and spare parts used and received to minimize wastage and inefficiency.
  • Transfer knowledge and give clear instructions to co-workers to ensure minimum interruption during works.


Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent with a minimum of 2 years of experience, or a diploma or vocational qualification with a minimum of 3 years of experience.
  • Experience in managing and delegating to in-house technicians and outsourced vendors.
  • Experience in delivering complex civil projects and carrying out civil works.
  • Project management experience required.
  • Ability to schedule personnel and prepare reports of all types.
  • Good communication skills in English at all levels.

5. Building Supervisor (Residential & Commercial Construction)

A key member of the construction project delivery team, the Building Supervisor shapes accurate bills of quantities, scopes, and quotes across multiple residential and commercial construction projects while maintaining quality control and stakeholder communications throughout each project lifecycle. Collaborating across clients, service providers, and internal teams, this role enables the business to meet customer requirements and company KPIs through disciplined inspection, reporting, and cost management.


Functions

  • Manage, monitor, coordinate, and supervise multiple residential and commercial construction projects.
  • Conduct inspections, compile scope, and prepare and submit building inspection reports.
  • Compile and deliver accurate scopes and quotes in line with customer requirements and company KPIs.
  • Communicate and keep all stakeholders informed and up to date throughout project delivery.
  • Supervise and maintain quality control, assess and process invoices, and establish and maintain business relationships.
  • Adhere to company policies, procedures, and safety standards to maintain a safe and healthy work environment.


Position Requirements

  • Certificate or Diploma in Building and Construction desirable, with White Card safety induction required.
  • First Aid Certificate desirable.
  • Experience completing bills of quantities for construction projects.
  • Knowledge of construction requirements, practices, products, specifications, and plans.
  • Strong numeracy, planning, time management, and organisational skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication, customer service, conflict resolution, and negotiation skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure, make decisions autonomously, meet deadlines, and manage competing priorities.
  • High attention to detail, strong work ethic, and sound judgement when handling sensitive information.

6. Building Supervisor (Carpentry & Facilities Maintenance)

Facility maintenance quality and safety depend on the Building Supervisor, who delivers a wide range of installation, maintenance, and repair functions across building trades, including carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems on campus facilities. Based within a facilities operations team, this role reports to management and ensures equipment is maintained in safe operating condition while providing hands-on support at special events and emergencies.


Accountabilities

  • Store all carpentry tools and materials properly, including framing, blocking, trim, and finish products.
  • Use and care for all tools, workspaces, and equipment, including shop vacuums, air compressors, and dust control systems.
  • Maintain equipment in safe operating condition with proper machine guarding and PPE use.
  • Inspect campus facilities for damage and safety hazards and perform corrective and preventative maintenance assignments.
  • Move equipment and supplies to set up facilities and provide assistance at special events and emergencies.
  • Complete required paperwork and communicate with customers and contracted service providers.


Experience & Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • 5 or more years of experience in maintenance and repair of public or private facilities, including building trades.
  • Knowledge of building trades including plumbing, carpentry, interior finishes, HVAC, and electrical systems.
  • Knowledge of risk management principles and safe work practices.
  • Can operate a variety of maintenance and repair equipment and hand and power tools safely.
  • Ability to prepare and maintain basic records.
  • Ability to work independently under minimal supervision.
  • Physical ability to lift to 50 pounds, bend, stoop, kneel, and perform field work involving frequent walking.
  • Valid driver's license may be required.

7. Building Supervisor (Healthcare Facilities Maintenance)

As the Building Supervisor, this role plans, schedules, and coordinates all planned preventative maintenance activities using the Maximo system while managing directly employed labour and subcontractors in responding to breakdowns across NHS healthcare facilities. The facilities maintenance team relies on this work to maintain statutory and NHS Trust compliance, support financial controls, and sustain strong stakeholder relationships that protect and enhance service perception.


Strategic Responsibilities

  • Close out building maintenance tasks promptly and assist other trades, including mechanical and electrical, when required.
  • Coordinate directly employed labour and subcontractors in responding to breakdowns and implementing planned preventative maintenance systems.
  • Ensure all maintenance activities comply with statutory, NHS, Trust, and company guidelines including HTMs and ACOPs.
  • Manage stakeholder and Trust representative relationships to maintain and enhance service perception.
  • Plan and schedule all planned preventative maintenance activities for the building trade using the Maximo system.
  • Control expenditure and support financial controls, including budget monitoring, stock, and contract management.
  • Maintain plant and equipment records and contribute to condition surveys and lifecycle planning.
  • Report all unsafe conditions, working practices, or equipment to senior management via the AIMS system.


Background & Experience

  • BTEC NVQ Level 3 in a relevant discipline desirable, with GCSE or equivalent in Mathematics and English required.
  • Experience in a healthcare facilities environment desirable.
  • Knowledge of statutory legislation, NHS Trust guidelines, and industry standards, including HTMs and ACOPs.
  • Experience in risk management, health and safety, fabric maintenance, contractor management, and fire door requirements.
  • Computer literacy.
  • Strong verbal, written, and numeric skills.
  • Strong stakeholder management and professional communication skills.

8. Building Supervisor (School Facilities & Technology)

Building Supervisor produces reliable facility operations for a school environment by performing and supervising preventive maintenance and general building repairs across mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and technology systems. The work directly supports the school community through coordination of construction projects, enforcement of safety and fire regulations, and hands-on assistance with computer hardware, software, and network updates under the direction of the Business Manager.


Leadership Responsibilities

  • Inspect grounds, buildings, and equipment, noting repair needs and reporting to the Business Manager.
  • Perform and supervise preventive maintenance and general building repairs including masonry, woodwork, painting, and furnishings.
  • Maintain and repair utility systems including plumbing, alarm systems, electrical wiring, HVAC, and compressors.
  • Enforce building, safety, and fire regulations appropriate to a school environment and assist in establishing emergency procedures.
  • Install and maintain technical equipment and assist with computer hardware, software, and network updates.
  • Coordinate construction projects, lead supplier and subcontractor selection, and liaise with municipal authorities and security companies.
  • Organize classrooms, equipment rooms, and storage areas and supervise ground maintenance subcontractors.


Education & Experience

  • Degree in building mechanics, architectural technology, civil engineering, or equivalent work experience required.
  • Knowledge of regulations, codes, and standards applicable to school facilities, health and safety, and accessibility.
  • Knowledge of building mechanical and electrical systems, HVAC, fire control, alarm systems, and energy efficiency.
  • Good spoken and written proficiency in both French and English required.
  • Ability to plan, coordinate, supervise others, and work autonomously with sound judgment and initiative.
  • Professional, courteous, and collaborative approach to working with the school community.
  • Valid driver's license in good standing required.
  • Valid Canadian work permit required.

9. Building Supervisor (Commercial & Institutional Facilities)

The Building Supervisor owns day-to-day coordination between 3 and 10 maintenance and service employees across commercial, healthcare, school, and residential hall facilities, ensuring a safe working environment and consistent service quality at the direction of on-site management. Working with customers and site leadership, this role drives productivity monitoring, staff training, and prompt incident reporting that supports Sodexo's operational standards across diverse client accounts.


Day-to-Day Responsibilities

  • Coordinate the activities of maintenance workers or service employees across commercial, healthcare, school, or residential hall facilities.
  • Ensure a safe working environment throughout the facility and apply all applicable OSHA and local safety requirements.
  • Monitor employee productivity and provide suggestions for increased service or efficiency.
  • Assign routine responsibilities to subordinates and provide orientation, training, and day-to-day direction as guided by on-site management.
  • Work with customers to resolve issues related to quality, service, and problem resolution.
  • Report all accidents and injuries promptly and participate in safety meetings, training, and hazard assessments.
  • Attend designated training programs and adapt procedures, tools, and techniques to meet the requirements of each account.


Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent experience required.
  • 1 or more years of related work experience required, with previous supervisory experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of OSHA and local safety requirements related to all assigned work.
  • Ability to coordinate routine staff responsibilities and provide clear direction to employees.
  • Ability to use all relevant electronic and communication devices.
  • Strong professional communication and interpersonal skills with coworkers, clients, and vendor representatives.
  • Ability to maintain a positive, ethical, and professional manner.
  • Can lift to 40 pounds.
  • Willing to work a flexible schedule including nights and weekends.

10. Building Supervisor (Multi-Trade Property Maintenance)

Embedded within a property maintenance operations team, the Building Supervisor develops and updates standards, procedures, and training programs while overseeing crews on projects across carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems for buildings and properties. Working closely with property owners, property managers, and contractors, this role maintains regulatory compliance, controls inventory, and troubleshoots equipment malfunctions to deliver timely and cost-efficient maintenance outcomes.


Scope of Work

  • Maintain compliance with state, federal, insurance, and manufacturer requirements for all maintenance performed on equipment, buildings, and properties.
  • Inspect maintenance work regularly and direct staff to adjust work practices when necessary.
  • Assist in developing and updating standards, procedures, training programs, and policies.
  • Oversee crews on projects and coordinate with other departments and contractors to ensure smooth workflow.
  • Work with property owners, property managers, and other departments to resolve maintenance issues in a timely and cost-efficient manner.
  • Perform prescribed maintenance and service on all equipment following manufacturer, federal, state, and insurance requirements.
  • Troubleshoot and repair equipment malfunctions, complete maintenance logs and work orders, and monitor inventory levels.
  • Maintain technical knowledge by reading trade publications, attending workshops, and communicating with peers at other properties.


Professional Experience

  • Plumbing license required.
  • 5 or more years of maintenance experience covering carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, and basic electrical in a building environment.
  • Knowledge of propane fireplaces, cable and satellite television systems, and equipment technical manuals.
  • Experience in problem-solving and troubleshooting building systems and equipment.
  • Basic computer skills required.
  • Strong communication, organisation, people, and mechanical skills.
  • Ability to lift to 50 pounds, work outdoors in extreme weather conditions, and perform physically demanding tasks on varied terrain.
  • Valid driver's license required, with compliance with company driver standards policy.

Editorial Process and Content Quality

This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.

Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.

Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.

Learn more about our editorial standards.