Director of Facilities

About VIDO VIDO is Canada's Centre for Pandemic Research and a global leader in infectious disease research and vaccine development for both humans and animals. Based at the University of Saskatchewan, we operate one of the world's most advanced containment facilities. We are expanding our infrastructure to include a Containment Level 4 lab, a GMP vaccine manufacturing facility, and new animal housing to support our One Health approach to combating emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.Why Join VIDO?This is an opportunity to contribute to global health security and work in one of the most advanced research facilities in the world. You will play a critical role in supporting infrastructure that enables cutting-edge science with global impact.Position Summary Reporting to the Director/CEO and serving as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Facilities provides strategic leadership for VIDO's laboratories and oversees all infrastructure maintenance and building operations. This role ensures the reliability, safety, and compliance of highly specialized biocontainment facilities and supports VIDO's long-term capital planning and operational excellence.Key ResponsibilitiesOperations & Maintenance

• Lead operations and maintenance for sophisticated biocontainment facilities (Biosafety Level 2–3 and future Containment Level 4).
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs and life-cycle planning for critical building systems.
• Oversee physical security, minor capital projects, and compliance with stringent biosafety requirements.

Capital Projects & Planning

• Serve as project lead for major capital initiatives and liaise with University Project Delivery teams.
• Provide strategic guidance on infrastructure stewardship and capital planning to senior leadership.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to regulatory standards and participate in biosafety and industry committees.
• Act as the primary liaison during facility emergencies and maintain robust contingency plans.

Leadership & Coordination

• Manage scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation for maintenance and infrastructure teams in collaboration with the Facility Manager.
• Review and approve operating manuals, scopes of work, and specifications for mechanical/electrical systems.
• Coordinate with contractors, regulatory bodies, and University units to ensure operational excellence.

Qualifications· Education: Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience). · Experience: Minimum 5 years leading operations and maintenance teams in a research environment, ideally within biocontainment facilities. · Certifications: Professional Engineer designation preferred; familiarity with biosafety regulations is an asset. · Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills.

Location: Saskatoon, SaskatchewanStatus: PermanentEmployment Group: Non-UnionFull Time Equivalent (FTE): 1.0

The successful applicant will be required to provide the following current verification(s) where 'Yes' is indicated below. Further information is available at: Facility Access Screening including Criminal Record Check: YesDriver's License and Abstract Check: Not Applicable Education/Credential Verification: Yes Vulnerable Sector Check: Not ApplicableSecurity Clearance: Yes Interested candidates are asked to submit their application including a cover letter, CV and references online. Applications will be reviewed as of January 16, 2026. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.For more information visit: Note: The University believes equity, diversity, and inclusion strengthen the community and enhance excellence, innovation, and creativity. We are dedicated to recruiting individuals who will enrich our work and learning environments. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, in accordance with Canadian immigration requirements, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority. We are committed to providing accommodation for those with a disability or medical necessity. If you require accommodation to participate in the recruitment process, please notify us and we will work together on the accommodation request. The University of Saskatchewan's main campus is situated on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Métis. We pay our respects to the First Nations and Métis ancestors of this place and reaffirm our relationship with one another. Together, we are uplifting Indigenization to a place of prominence at the University of Saskatchewan.