About Orinda
The beautiful City of Orinda is a family-oriented community of approximately 20,000 residents who enjoy a semi-rural setting surrounded by majestic tree-studded hillsides within its 12.8 square miles. It is bordered by the cities of Lafayette, Moraga, Berkeley, and Oakland. Orinda is located in Contra Costa County, within 20 minutes of downtown San Francisco. A BART station is situated in the center of the community allowing a convenient commute within the Bay Area.
Orinda incorporated as a City in 1985, after more than 100 years of gradual development and has a reputation as a well-managed and stable municipal government. The City operates under a Council/Manager form of government, with five elected city council members who serve at-large, each for a four-year term. The City of Orinda has a dedicated and professional staff of approximately 40 budgeted employees supplemented with part-time and seasonal staff.
Location
Description
The City of Orinda, California, is seeking a Maintenance and Facilities Superintendent for a new role overseeing the Public Works Maintenance & Facilities Division’s operation, preservation, and repair of municipal buildings and public facilities! The Superintendent will oversee a direct staff of two, up to eight indirect reports, and an approximate operating budget of $3.4 million and Capital Improvement Budget of approximately $1.15 million. This exciting leadership position involves managing building, parks, streets and drainage maintenance operations, and delivering certain projects in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), and long-term maintenance plans for buildings, streets, storm drain systems, parks, and trees, as well as overseeing contract work with landscaping and janitorial crews. The ideal candidate has a strong background in both facilities management and maintenance operations. They will lead new staff integration efforts in this reorganized Division, championing an inclusive culture that emphasizes respect for diverse perspectives and cultivating a unified, positive workplace. The Superintendent will possess an engaging leadership style, connect with all levels of staff, and recognize employee strengths and contributions. Elevate operations and inspire teams in this innovative Public Works Maintenance Division – apply today!
THE COMMUNITY
Orinda, California is often referred to as the “Hidden Gem of the Bay Area.” Known for its idyllic suburban charm and breathtaking natural beauty, Orinda offers a unique blend of tranquil living and proximity to urban conveniences. Spanning nearly 13 square miles and home to approximately 20,000 residents, Orinda seamlessly blends a close-knit community atmosphere with ample open space. This city is celebrated for its stunning vistas and access to outdoor recreation such as Briones Regional Park, offering hiking, biking, and horse-riding trails with panoramic views. Major attractions include the renowned Orinda Theatre, an iconic establishment known for its classic and independent film screenings, and the Orinda Community Center which hosts various cultural and social events throughout the year. Orinda is bordered by the cities of Lafayette, Moraga, Berkeley, and Oakland, all of which can be reached through Orinda’s own BART station, and offer additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Located approximately 20 minutes from downtown San Francisco, Orinda offers the serenity of suburban life while being close enough to enjoy the cultural and economic vibrancy of one of the world’s most iconic cities. Orinda’s top industries include education, real estate, and professional services, reflecting the city’s well-educated and affluent population.
THE CITY
With an approximate budget of $39 million, the city employs over 40 staff supplemented with part-time and seasonal professionals. It operates under a Council/Manager form of government, with five elected city council members who serve at-large, each for a four-year term. The City of Orinda strives to provide excellent service in a fiscally responsible manner and to promote a safe, healthy, and vibrant community. Learn more about Orinda: https://cityoforinda.org/
THE DEPARTMENT & DIVISION
The Department of Public Works (DPW) is responsible for maintenance activities along approximately 92 miles of public right-of-way. It strives to improve, develop, and maintain public infrastructure essential to the safety, mobility, and quality of life for Orinda citizens. The DPW operates with an approximate annual operating budget of $5 million and has 17 staff members. The Department also administers a CIP budget of approximately $14 million. DPW’s organizational structure consists of two divisions: Engineering Services, and Maintenance & Facilities Services.
The Maintenance & Facilities Division is responsible for the repair and improvement of city-owned public infrastructures including stormwater drainage, roadway, traffic, and pavement, and for coordinating with vendors and contractors on large maintenance and landscaping projects. The Division operates with an approximate annual operating budget of $3.4 million. The Division’s recent reorganization now includes the integration of the maintenance operations of the Parks & Recreation Department, which covers the following buildings and parks:
- Four buildings: City Hall, Library, Community Center and Art & Garden Center
- Corporation Yard
- Misc. buildings: Ranch House, Kinder gym, Restrooms (Wilder, Orinda Oaks)
- Five Parks: Wilder Park, Orinda Community Park, Orinda Oaks, Orinda Sports Field, Pine Grove
- Joint use of Orinda Union School District fields
View the City’s current Strategic Plan: https://cityoforinda.org/DocumentCenter/View/4165/Strategic-Priorities-2023
View the City’s current budget: https://www.cityoforinda.org/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/141
THE JOB
The Maintenance and Facilities Superintendent is responsible for ensuring that municipal buildings and public facilities are maintained to high standards, remaining safe and functional for employees and the public. The Superintendent will oversee a direct staff of two supervisors, up to eight indirect reports, and the Division’s annual budget. This role involves managing contract and project activities, including multi-year park and landscape maintenance contracts (currently with MCE corporation), multi-year janitorial services, facilities maintenance projects in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and long-term maintenance and repair plans for city-owned buildings, streets, storm drain systems, parks, trees, and landscaping. The Superintendent will coordinate with City departments and external contractors; assess and prepare contract documents; participate in vendor selection; administer contracts and evaluate contractor performance; and review and approve billings. Responsibilities also include programming building maintenance, prioritizing tasks, managing safety trainings, coordinating emergency responses, and ensuring regulatory compliance, including adherence to ADA accessibility regulations. Under the direction of the Director of Public Works, the Superintendent will coordinate activities and operations to allocate resources effectively. They will thoughtfully balance daily operational tasks and long-term strategy, ensuring alignment with community needs and goals.
CURRENT PROJECTS & OPPORTUNITIES:
- Staff Culture & Integration: Continue the successful integration of new team members, provide cross-training opportunities for professional growth, and serve as an energetic and motivational leader for this highly effective Public Works Division.
- Facilities Maintenance Projects: City Hall exterior painting (CIP # 4182), Library exterior painting (CIP # 4175), City Hall HVAC control rehabilitation, Community Center Exterior painting (CIP# 4083), City Hall flooring replacement.
- Call-Out and Emergency Response: Manage the rotation for after-hours call outs and emergency response
View the City’s Capital Improvement Plan: https://www.cityoforinda.org/DocumentCenter/View/4338/Capital-Improvement-Plan-FY-202223-202728
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Any combination equivalent to education and experience is likely to provide the required knowledge and abilities. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
- Experience: Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in building maintenance, facility management, construction management, public works operations or related activity including two (2) years of supervisory responsibility.
- Education: Possession of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in civil engineering, construction management, architecture, public administration or a related field is desirable; alternate education including technical and other certifications and experience may substitute.
- Possession of a valid California Driver's license with a demonstrated history of safe driving.
Desired Qualifications:
Certifications & Licenses (any of the following):
- Professional Engineer (PE)
- Licensed Architect
- Certified Facility Manager (FM), by International Facility Management Association
- American Public Works Association (APWA) Certifications (e.g. Certified Public Works Professional-Supervision)
- Project Management Professional (PMP), by Project Management Institute (PMI)
- PMI Construction Professional (PMI-CP)
- Licensed General Contractor (Class B or A)
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
This position will be designated as an emergency response worker and must be prepared to respond during weather emergencies or crises. They will be responsible for collaborating with other city departments and external agencies to address and mitigate emergency conditions.
For a full listing of job duties, KSA's and qualifications, see Job Description link.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a highly experienced professional with a strong background in both facilities management and maintenance operations. They will demonstrate exceptional leadership skills, effectively managing their team in a collaborative work environment. Their problem-solving abilities and proactive approach will ensure operational efficiency, while their commitment to safety and compliance will maintain a high standard of facility upkeep. The ideal candidate is innovative and adaptable, embracing new technologies and practices that enhance facility operations. They should possess a keen eye for detail and remain calm under pressure. The Superintendent will champion an inclusive work culture that emphasizes respect for diverse perspectives, and be committed to cultivating a unified, supportive workplace.
CORE COMPETENCIES
required in an ideal candidate include…
- Influential Leadership: Inspire and guide staff toward achieving goals. Build trust and respect by encouraging collaboration and communication.
- Team Management: Demonstrate effective supervisory skills; establish structured processes, leverage individual strengths to enhance team effectiveness, and resolve conflicts through open communication.
- Financial Acumen: Understand and manage financial information, using data to inform the strategic planning of projects.
- Industry Knowledge: Remain informed of relevant local, state, and federal rules, codes, and laws, including safety regulations, State Public Contract Code and Municipal Code procurement procedures, State DIR project registration requirements, and Underground Service Alert (“USA”) requirements and Accessibility regulations. Possess functional skills in various areas such as HVAC, electrical and energy systems, and preventative maintenance.
- High Standards: Demonstrate a commitment to excellence, high quality expectations, and superb customer service to satisfy a highly engaged constituency.
All City of Orinda employees are expected to uphold and exhibit the City’s core values including serving the public, being respectful and accountable, maintaining professionalism, and demonstrating responsibility.
Benefits
In addition to a competitive benefits package, as a non-PERS agency, this position provides a unique opportunity to near retirement or recently retired public agency professionals. There is no limit of work hours for a CalPERS retiree.
The City of Orinda operates on a 9/80 Work Schedule, providing a three-day weekend every other Friday (26 days per year) and has a scheduled City Office closure between the Christmas and New Year's Holidays. Employees may also be approved to work one remote workday each two week pay period after the probationary period. All other workdays would be at the City Hall location.
The Maintenance and Facilities Superintendent position is unrepresented and is part of the mid-management employment group. The following benefits are examples of those provided.
- Retirement: The City contributes thirteen percent (13%) of base salary to a MissionSquare 401(a) Money Purchase Plan defined contribution plan which is on a three-year graded vesting schedule, unless incumbent is over age 55 where it is 100% vested. The City will match up to three percent (3%) contributed by the employee into the 401(a). The City does not provide a defined benefit pension plan (i.e., CalPERS). The City does not participate in Social Security, except for Medicare premiums.
- Deferred Compensation: Employees have an option of participating in a MissionSquare 457 deferred compensation plan where contributions are from employee earnings.
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance: The City offers several medical benefit plan options for the employee and his/her dependents through CalPERS Health, including low cost or no cost to employee. The city contributions vary by plan. An in-lieu medical option of $474.93 per month is available upon proof of medical coverage for the employee and all his/her dependents. The City pays the full family premium for dental and vision coverage.
- Leave Accruals: In lieu of vacation and sick leave, the City provides General Leave (PTO) of 19 days during the first year of employment. Accrual is increased by one day for each subsequent year, up to a maximum of 25 days.
- Management Leave: 60 hours will be granted each fiscal year to mid-management employees.
- Holidays: The City observes 14 paid holidays. This includes 2 floating holidays.
- Life Insurance, Long-Term Disability & SDI: The City pays for a life insurance policy for an amount equal to one (1) time the annual salary (up to a maximum of $150,000), as well as the cost of the monthly premium for Long Term Disability. The City participates in State Disability Insurance (SDI), which is fully funded by the employee.
Additional Benefits:
- The city offers a Flexible Benefits Plan for out-of-pocket health care expenses and dependent care expenses.
- The city participates in a Pre-tax Transit Benefit program allowing participants to purchase transit fare on a pre-tax basis.
- The city provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) paid for by the city.
- Reduced employee and dependent fees for City of Orinda Parks & Recreation classes and programs.
- Educational/Professional Growth benefits.
Special Instructions
To be considered for this exciting career opportunity, applicants must submit a completed application, online at CalOpps.org before the deadline to apply. The deadline to apply is October 18, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.
Please note that a resume and other supplemental documentation may be attached but may not be used as a substitute for completing the application form fully.
The Selection Process
A limited number of the best qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the selection process. Applicants will be notified by phone and email if they are invited to participate further in the selection process. Please provide a valid email address on your application.
Applicants selected to move forward in the process may be asked to participate in any combination of the following (at any phase of the selection process): a written examination, job related exercise, physical test or job simulation, phone interview and in-person or video panel interview(s).
The final phase of the selection process is the probationary period, which is six months, but may be extended by the City Manager.
EOE and Reasonable Accommodations
The City of Orinda is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, ancestry, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws in its employment actions, decisions, policies and practices.
In accordance with Federal Law, the City of Orinda will only hire individuals who are legally authorized to work in the United States.
Candidates with a disability which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process should submit a request for accommodation by the final filing date by emailing gstaton@cityoforinda.org. Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request.