Director of Operations

Upchurch is a rapidly growing, full-service building engineering company providing mechanical, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services across the southeastern United States. Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Horn Lake, MS, Upchurch has grown through both organic expansion and strategic acquisitions, establishing a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and service excellence. We offer end-to-end solutions-from design and installation to ongoing maintenance and emergency support-helping clients maximize building performance, energy efficiency, and equipment lifespan.

Position Summary

The Director of Operations is responsible for overseeing and optimizing construction operations across multiple projects to ensure safety, quality, schedule, and profitability objectives are achieved. This role provides strategic and hands-on leadership to project management and field teams, drives operational consistency, and partners with executive leadership to support company growth and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and oversight for construction operations across multiple projects.

• Ensure projects are executed in accordance with contract requirements, schedules, budgets, and company standards.

• Drive operational excellence in safety, quality, productivity, and cost control.

• Lead and mentor project managers, superintendents, and operations staff.

• Establish and enforce standardized operating procedures and best practices.

• Collaborate with preconstruction and estimating teams on project handoffs and risk reviews.

• Monitor project financial performance, including budgets, forecasts, and margin management.

• Partner with safety, quality, and compliance teams to ensure regulatory and company requirements are met.

• Support business development efforts, including client relationships and operational input on pursuits.

• Identify and implement process improvements, technology, and operational efficiencies.

• Resolve escalated project issues, claims, and disputes.

• Participate in strategic planning, staffing, and resource allocation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

• 12-20+ years of progressive experience in construction operations.

• Proven leadership experience managing multiple projects and teams.

• Strong understanding of construction methods, contracts, scheduling, and cost controls.

• Experience working with project financials, forecasts, and WIP reporting.

• Experience with large-scale, complex, or multi-market construction projects (Preferred(

• Ability to lead in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Must be able to travel 80-100% of the time.

• Primarily office-based with occasional site visits and pre-bid meetings.

• Fast-paced, deadline-driven preconstruction environment.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary based on experience.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid time off and holiday pay.

• Opportunities for professional development and certification assistance.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Upchurch Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.