Director of Construction Operations

The Director of Construction oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of building projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This role involves strategic leadership and the management of resources, including personnel, finances, and materials, to achieve the objectives of each construction project. By serving as the main point of contact between various stakeholders, including architects, contractors, and clients, the Director of Construction ensures that communication is maintained and project goals are aligned. Their expertise not only guides the project through its lifecycle but also ensures compliance with legal requirements, safety standards, and environmental regulations, fostering a smooth and efficient construction process.

Requirements

• Develop and manage the construction department’s budget, including forecasting project costs and controlling expenses to stay within financial limits.
• Negotiate contracts with architects, vendors, contractors, and other professionals, ensuring terms are favorable and protect the organization’s interests.
• Implement safety protocols and compliance measures across all construction sites to minimize risks and adhere to federal, state, and local regulations.
• Coordinate with project managers to ensure timely completion of projects, addressing any delays or issues that arise during the construction process.
• Facilitate communication between various stakeholders to maintain positive relationships and ensure project alignment with customer needs and expectations.
• Lead the adoption of new construction technologies and methodologies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the quality of construction projects.
• Conduct post-project evaluations to assess the performance of contractors, the effectiveness of project management, and the overall satisfaction of stakeholders, using findings to inform future projects.
• Supervises Project Managers, Superintendents, and other staff as assigned to projects.
• Responsible for delegating work to direct reports.
• Participates in the hiring process of Project Managers, Superintendents, and other staff as assigned.
• Participates in employee performance evaluations, compensation decisions, and disciplinary actions.
• Provides overall division workload schedule to assist the Executive General Manager in management and growth strategies.
• Participates in interviews and presentations.
• Assists estimating in evaluation of subcontractors / vendors.
• Assist Project Management staff in resolving issues and disputes.

Job Requirements

Education: A Director of Construction typically holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field. Coursework often includes project management, construction materials and methods, cost estimation, building codes, and safety regulations. Advanced degrees, like a Master’s in Construction Management or Business Administration, can enhance prospects, focusing on leadership, financial management, and strategic planning within the construction industry.

Experience: For the role of Director of Constructions, candidates typically possess extensive experience in construction management, including hands-on project oversight and team leadership. Ideal applicants have progressed through various construction roles, gaining practical knowledge in project planning, budget management, and safety protocols. On-the-job training, complemented by formal training programs in leadership and construction methodologies, is crucial. Experience in stakeholder communication and problem-solving in real-world construction scenarios is also essential, ensuring the ability to navigate complex projects and drive successful outcomes.

Certifications & Licenses: Certifications and licenses for a Director of Construction can vary by location but often include a General Contractor License or a Construction Management Certification such as the Certified Construction Manager (CCM) from the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). Some roles may also benefit from a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Specific state-level licenses may be required depending on the project location and scope.

Skills Required

Contract Negotiation: Balancing project budgets, timelines, and work quality requires skillful negotiation of contracts that meet organizational goals and project specifications. Directors of Construction secure materials and labor at optimal costs and establish durable partnerships for complex construction projects.

Project Scheduling: Directors of Construction coordinate work sequences, resource allocation, and deadlines to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. Their meticulous approach prevents costly delays and enhances workforce productivity.

Budget Management: Allocating financial resources without exceeding budgets is a critical task. Directors of Construction analyze costs from initial estimates to final expenditures and negotiate contracts strategically to ensure value and efficiency.

Safety Compliance: Adherence to safety regulations is non-negotiable. Directors of Construction develop and implement comprehensive safety plans, minimizing workplace accidents and health hazards. Their deep understanding of safety standards ensures a culture of compliance.

Quality Control: Maintaining project integrity and company reputation requires ensuring all construction meets established standards. By coordinating with project managers, architects, and engineers, deviations from quality benchmarks are identified and corrected.

Stakeholder Management: Engaging with project owners, Executive Management and government officials ensures expectations are aligned and projects proceed smoothly. Directors of Construction anticipate and address concerns, maintaining project momentum and fostering positive relationships.

Work Environment

A Director of Construction operates within a dynamic environment where the office and field settings interchange regularly. Their workspace is often mobile, transitioning from on-site trailers to corporate offices, equipped with laptops, smartphones, and construction management software to maintain connectivity and oversight.

Work hours extend beyond the typical 9-to-5, adapting to project needs and deadlines, which may include evenings and weekends. The dress code varies, blending professional attire for meetings with practical, safety-compliant gear on-site.

The role is embedded in a culture of collaboration, requiring high levels of interaction with project managers, contractors, and clients to ensure project objectives are met. This necessitates a balanced emotional environment where stress management and clear communication are vital.

Travel is frequent, to both local and potentially remote project sites, emphasizing the need for flexibility and adaptability. Amidst these demands, the pursuit of professional development remains a constant, with opportunities to engage in training and industry events, ensuring skills remain sharp in a rapidly evolving sector.

Benefits

• Covers 100% of employee benefit premiums, including Medical (PPO or HDHP Option), Vision, Dental

• Matching 401K
• Short- and Long-Term Disability
• Pet Insurance
• Professional Development/Education Reimbursement
• Parking and Transit Benefits for NY, NJ, ATL, and DC Metro areas

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.