Overview
Thompson Construction Group is currently seeking an accomplished and dynamic leader to join our Infrastructure team as Operations Manager. Based in Spruce Grove, Alberta, and reporting directly to the Vice President, this role will oversee all operational aspects of our land development projects with a primary focus on water and sewer installation, underground utilities, and horizontal civil services. The Operations Manager will lead a team of Project Managers, drive operational excellence, ensure profitable project delivery, and play a key role in growing the business through strategic initiatives, client relationships, and market expansion.
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic and operational leadership for the Infrastructure division’s land development portfolio
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Project Managers and support staff to achieve high performance and professional growth
- Oversee multiple concurrent projects from award through to completion, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, budget, quality, and safety standards
- Drive business growth by identifying new opportunities, pursuing strategic targets, and strengthening client and stakeholder relationships
- Develop and implement divisional strategies for operational efficiency, resource allocation, and risk management
- Monitor project performance metrics, financials, and forecasts; implement corrective actions as required
- Foster a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with all regulatory, environmental, and company standards
- Collaborate with pre-construction and estimating teams to support bid preparation and project transitions
- Build and maintain relationships with clients, municipalities, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers
- Contribute to continuous improvement of operational processes, systems, and standards
Project and Operational Support
- Provide hands-on guidance to Project Managers on complex issues, change management, and claims resolution
- Review and approve project schedules, budgets, procurement plans, and subcontractor awards
- Stay current on industry trends, regulatory changes, new technologies, and best practices in land development and underground infrastructure
- Assist in workforce planning, equipment utilization, and resource optimization across the division
- Participate in senior leadership meetings to align operational goals with overall company objectives
Qualifications and Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field
- Professional designation (P.Eng., Gold Seal Certification, or equivalent) considered a strong asset
- 12+ years of progressive experience in civil infrastructure construction, with a focus on land development, water/sewer installation, and underground utilities
- Proven leadership experience managing teams of Project Managers on projects valued between $1–50 million in Western Canada
- Demonstrated success in operational management, business growth, and profitable project delivery with a general contractor
- Strong business acumen, financial management skills, and strategic planning capabilities
- Exceptional leadership, communication, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities
Technical Skills
- In-depth knowledge of land development processes, civil construction methods, materials, and industry standards, particularly underground and horizontal infrastructure
- Proficient in reading and interpreting construction drawings, specifications, and contracts
- Experience developing and overseeing construction execution plans, schedules, and logistics strategies
- Strong analytical skills for risk management, financial forecasting, and performance analysis
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and construction management software (scheduling, project management, and financial tools)
- Solid understanding of procurement, subcontract management, and claims processes
Benefits (Full-Time Salary)
- Competitive Salaries
- Group Health Insurance Plan (Extended Medical and Dental)
- Registered Retirement Savings Plan (Employer Matching)
- Life Insurance and LTD Group Insurance
- Discretionary Bonuses
- Growth Opportunities