Facilities Manager

Background:MD Restaurant Group (“MDRG”) is a rapidly growing multi-unit, multi-state Culver’s restaurant franchisee operating across Illinois and Ohio. As we expand from 14 locations to more than 20 locations over the next several years, we are seeking a hands-on, operationally focused Facilities Manager to lead and help scale our facilities, equipment, and property infrastructure across the organization.This role will serve as a key business partner responsible for maintaining safe, efficient, and well-maintained restaurant environments while supporting long-term growth initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring experience managing facilities operations, vendor relationships, preventative maintenance programs, capital projects, and multi-site property needs in a fast-paced environment. This position will play a critical role in maintaining brand standards, minimizing downtime, controlling repair and maintenance costs, and ensuring operational excellence across all locations.The successful candidate will be highly organized, responsive, and solutions-oriented, with the ability to prioritize competing demands, manage external vendors and contractors, and collaborate effectively with restaurant operations leadership. Experience in supporting multi-unit retail, restaurant, hospitality, or service-based environments is strongly preferred.This role reports to the Director of Operations (or COO). Works closely with Vice President of Operations, Area Managers, and store leaders. CORE RESPONSIBILITIESMaintenance & Repair OversightEnsure all facilities-related work orders across locations are completed timely within the expectations established with the vendor. Oversee HVAC, refrigeration, kitchen equipment, plumbing, electrical, roofing, parking lots, building systems, landscaping and snow plowingReduce emergency repairs through structured preventative maintenanceEnsure rapid resolution of critical operational failuresVendor Management & Cost ControlNegotiate and manage national and local service contracts that meet Culver’s Brand StandardsEstablish approved vendor lists by trade for each locationStandardize pricing and service level expectationsEvaluate vendor performance and enforce accountabilityAchieve measurable annual cost savings targets (8–12% goal)Preventative Maintenance ProgramDevelop and maintain preventative maintenance calendarImplement CMMS or structured tracking systemAudit compliance quarterlyTrack warranty coverage and manufacturer guidelinesExtend asset life and reduce capital replacement frequencyCapital Planning & Asset Lifecycle ManagementBuild and maintain asset registry for all locationsDevelop 3-year and 5-year CapEx forecastIdentify replacement timing for major equipment (HVAC, refrigeration, roofing, kitchen systems)Support budgeting process annuallyNew Store Openings & RenovationsPartner with construction team during new buildsOversee facilities punch lists prior to openingStandardize equipment specificationsEnsure vendor onboarding for new marketsSupport remodel and refresh projectsCompliance & SafetyEnsure fire suppression, hood systems, alarms, and life-safety systems are inspected and compliantMaintain health department-related equipment standardsCoordinate required inspectionsReduce operational risk exposureRestaurant SupportTrain GMs on basic troubleshooting and maintenance standardsProvide escalation support for high-priority repairsServe as the single point of contact for facilities issuesFree GMs to focus on sales, labor, and guest experienceQUALIFICATIONSRequired:5+ years multi-unit facilities or property management experienceExperience in restaurant, retail, or hospitality environmentsStrong vendor relationship building backgroundKnowledge of HVAC, refrigeration, kitchen equipment systemsBudget management experience ($500k+ annual spend preferred)Proficiency in CMMS or maintenance tracking systemsAbility to travel regularly between locationsPreferred:Experience supporting multi-site / multi-state locationsConstruction or renovation project oversightExperience supporting rapid growth organizationsEqual Opportunity Employer E-verify EmployerJob Type: Full-timeHours: M-F, Sat & Sun on emergency basisWork Location: Hybrid. 70-80% at Restaurant locations, 20-30% home/corp office.   Direct Reports: None