Facilities Operations and Services oversees the maintenance, safety and energy management of the university’s buildings and grounds—collectively known as the physical plant. From classrooms and offices to research facilities, athletic spaces and parking structures, we ensure a clean, safe, and sustainable campus environment that supports the university’s mission and daily activities.
Our maintenance and repairs responsibilities include:
The Energy Management department focuses on improving campus energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting sustainability through projects like retro-commissioning and alternative energy planning. This department also works closely with electrical, HVAC and plumbing to ensure energy efficiencies. energy efficiencies. They integrate energy-efficient solutions into all mechanical projects. The university has received recognition for its efforts, including the 2022 Mass Save Climate Leader Award, and actively involves students in innovative energy-saving initiatives.
The Grounds department maintains and enhances 150 acres of campus, caring for trees, turf, groundcover and green spaces that create a welcoming, sustainable environment. The team's work includes landscaping and irrigation to keep the campus safe, functional and visually appealing year-round.
In winter, they manage snow removal across 7.2 miles of walkways and 2.6 million square feet of parking lots, using real-time weather monitoring to ensure safe access. The team also maintains a fleet of 70+ vehicles and equipment—including snow plows and landscaping tools—and oversees outdoor waste and recycling to support campus sustainability.
UMass Lowell has achieved recognition through the Arbor Day Foundation as a designated Tree Campus as well as certification as a Level II Arboretum through the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation program, recognizing their commitment to biodiversity, education and long-term stewardship..
The UML Arboretum is a partnership with the Office of Sustainability and Facilities Management, along with the support of faculty, the student government association and our community partners.
The Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) team ensures comfortable and energy-efficient campus environments by maintaining heating, cooling, and air compression systems. Their services include routine maintenance, equipment upgrades, safety inspections, and collaboration on construction projects to optimize indoor climate control.
The Housekeeping and Building Services department plays a vital role in keeping our campus clean, safe, and welcoming. They handle the daily cleaning of classrooms, offices, and common areas, along with specialized tasks like floor refinishing, window washing, and other essential maintenance to support a healthy environment. They also provide cleaning and support services for residential halls.
The Lock & Keys team ensures campus security by maintaining and repairing locks, doors and key systems. They also manage key issuance and return services.
To obtain keys, complete the Key Request Form. Please make sure to complete all information on the form, including the key number.
The Plumbing Department, staffed by an skilled and licensed team, ensures the reliable operation of campus plumbing systems through expert installation, maintenance, and repair. Services include leak repairs, water-saving fixture maintenance, sewer line upkeep, domestic hot and cold-water system servicing, backflow preventer maintenance, gas leak inspections, general plumbing work, and support for special events.
UMass Lowell operates two steam power plants that run 24/7 to provide heating, hot water, and lab support to two-thirds of campus buildings.