About Us

We are a young, innovative university in the heart of the Ruhr metropolis. Recognized for research and teaching, we think in possibilities, not limits, and develop ideas for the future. We live diversity, foster potential, and are committed to educational equity that truly earns its name.

The University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) is seeking a

Head of Building Management (f/m/d)

(A16 civil service pay scale NRW or comparable private employment contract)

at its Essen or Duisburg campus.

With around 37,000 students, the UDE is one of the largest universities in Germany. The Building Management Department, with approximately 220 employees at the Duisburg and Essen locations, shapes the infrastructural framework for research, teaching, and administration. It is responsible for the university's structural development as well as the sustainable maintenance and modernization of existing facilities.

In the coming years, groundbreaking new construction and renovation projects, along with the structural further development of the campus sites, are planned. This involves making strategic decisions for organization, processes, and client competence. We are looking for a strong, assertive leader with in-depth construction and project experience who will actively shape this transformation phase and significantly influence the university's structural future.

Your Responsibilities

You will strategically, operationally, and technically lead the Building Management Department, overseeing all tasks throughout the real estate lifecycle.
You will manage complex new construction, renovation, and modernization projects with overall responsibility for deadlines, costs, and quality, in close collaboration with BLB NRW and other project stakeholders.
You will further develop the university's client competence and expand the established client function.
You will bear overall responsibility for an extensive operational budget as well as for large-scale construction project budgets, ensuring their economical and targeted use.
You will ensure the legally compliant, economical, and highly available operation of the properties and technical facilities.
You will continuously develop the organizational structure of the department.
You will represent the university in fundamental matters of building management, conduct negotiations at the leadership level, and position the department as a capable, service-oriented unit for university members and institutions.

Your Profile

Completed university degree, preferably in engineering, architecture, civil engineering, industrial engineering, or a comparable relevant field.
Many years of professional and leadership experience in the construction and real estate sector with proven responsibility for complex new construction and renovation projects, ideally in the public sector.
In-depth knowledge of public construction, particularly in procurement and contract law (e.g., VOB, HOAI), as well as demonstrated experience in managing projects as a client.
Proven competence in managing large-scale projects and sound technical and business management understanding for controlling complex construction and operational processes.
Experience in the strategic development of organizations and structures, combined with strong decision-making skills and a sense of responsibility.
High personal stability, negotiation skills, assertiveness, and communication ability, as well as the capacity to skillfully moderate diverse interests and build trust.
Experience in public service and knowledge of university structures are advantageous.

If civil servants apply, they may be taken over as part of a transfer. The personal and career requirements must be met; otherwise, employment will be on a private employment contract basis.

What Awaits You

A secure and permanent employment contract in a diverse and multifaceted area of responsibility.
An interesting, responsible position with significant scope for development, offering contact with almost all areas of the UDE.
A work environment characterized by respectful and appreciative collaboration.
Flexible working hours and the possibility of home office.
Family-friendly policies, including childcare services.
Support for family caregiving responsibilities.
A broad range of further education and training opportunities, with individual onboarding.
Excellent public transport connections and free parking.
Attractive sports and health offerings (university sports).

Start Date: As soon as possible

Contract Duration: Permanent

Working Hours: 100% of a full-time position

Application Deadline: April 19, 2026

Interested?

We look forward to receiving your online application via the link below, including the usual documents (cover letter, CV, attachments), stating reference number 111-26.

For further information about the position, please contact Mr. Ulf Richter (Phone: 0201/183-3000, Email: kanzler@uni-due.de). For information about the application process, please contact the HR department: Ms. Christiane Stobbe (Phone: 020/183-2099), Email: christiane.stobbe@uni-due.de.

Information about the department and the advertised position can be found at: www.uni-due.de/verwaltung/gebaeudemanagement.

The University of Duisburg-Essen aims to promote the diversity of its members (see www.uni-due.de/diversity).

Women will be given preferential consideration in cases of equal qualifications, in accordance with the State Equal Opportunities Act.

Applications from suitably qualified severely disabled persons and those treated as equals within the meaning of § 2 Abs. 3 SGB IX are welcome.

Leiter:in des Bereichs Gebäudemanagement (w/m/d)