Senior Site Manager

Unispace; Auckland; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Unispace in Auckland, New Zealand, seeks a Senior Site Manager to lead on-site execution of large commercial projects, ensuring safety, quality and on-time delivery while coordinating subcontractors and clients. You’ll drive collaboration across teams and sites and embed Unispace’s standards in daily operations.

With 10+ years in construction project management, especially interior fit-outs, you’ll read drawings, manage schedules, mentor teams, and ensure projects stay within budget and

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in construction project management.
• Experience with commercial interior office fit-outs and large-scale projects.
• Extensive knowledge of health and safety standards and relevant qualifications.
• Understanding of construction sequencing, building codes, and regulations.
• Advanced ability to read and interpret drawings and specifications for large projects.
• Strong communication and leadership skills for stakeholder engagement.
• Proven ability to manage subcontractors and budgets.
• Track record of delivering complex projects on time and in budget.

Responsibilities

• Lead on-site management of large-scale projects, overseeing subcontractors and project scope.
• Develop and implement delivery strategies for efficient execution.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, landlords, tenants, and agents.
• Lead and evaluate subcontractor performance to meet quality standards.
• Provide on-site leadership across disciplines, regions and studios.
• Ensure health and safety compliance across projects.
• Manage site documentation, documentation control and site setup.
• Oversee project close-out and handover processes.
• Champion Unispace’s CSR initiatives and sustainable practices.

Skills

Site management

H&S compliance

Reading drawings

Time management

Communication

Leadership

Problem solving

Team development

Project scheduling

MS Office

PM software

Tools

Microsoft Office

Project management software

Job description

At Unispace, we create spaces that empower people and businesses to thrive. We are a global design-build partner delivering workplace and life sciences projects for some of the world’s most innovative brands.

With over 500 people across four continents, we bring together strategy, design, project management, and delivery into one seamless experience. Our integrated approach enables us to move with agility, solve complex challenges, and deliver meaningful outcomes for our clients.

Our people are at the centre of everything we do. We foster a collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity, accountability, creativity, and continuous improvement. We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams and help us create better experiences for our clients and each other.

At Unispace, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects, work alongside talented global teams, and grow your career in an environment that encourages innovation and new ideas.

Why you’re here

As a Senior Site Manager, you are here to lead and manage the on-site execution of high-profile construction projects, ensuring that every aspect is delivered to the highest standard. With your extensive experience, you will oversee complex projects from planning to completion, ensuring that safety, quality, and timelines are met. You will drive collaboration among teams, manage subcontractors, and build strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. Your expertise and leadership will be critical to maintaining Unispace’s reputation for excellence and innovation while fostering a positive and inclusive on-site culture.

What you’re responsible for

• Lead the on-site management of large-scale, complex construction projects with a deep understanding of subcontractor contracts, project scope, drawings, and specifications.
• Develop and execute advanced delivery strategies, ensuring efficient and effective project execution.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with on-site stakeholders, including clients, landlords, tenants, and agents, facilitating clear and effective communication.
• Lead and manage the performance of subcontractors, ensuring that they meet high-quality standards and project requirements.
• Provide leadership to the Unispace team on all on-site activities, ensuring seamless collaboration across disciplines, regions, and studios to implement Unispace’s 80/20 methodology.
• Serve as a key advocate for Unispace’s culture, values, and behaviors, embedding them into all site operations and interactions.
• Oversee health and safety compliance, ensuring all projects adhere to the highest standards and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure site cleanliness, organization, and proper establishment, promoting a professional and safe work environment.
• Take full responsibility for program management, ensuring all aspects of the project are on track and completed within the established timelines.
• Ensure punch list completion and uphold rigorous quality control and quality assurance standards throughout the project life cycle.
• Manage on-site documentation, overseeing the document control process to ensure accuracy and accessibility.
• Set up and manage project sites, ensuring seamless execution from start to finish.
• Implement and oversee comprehensive site risk management plans, identifying and escalating any issues to the Senior Project Manager, Project Manager, or other relevant leaders.
• Lead project close-out processes, ensuring a smooth handover and successful project delivery.
• Champion Unispace’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, contributing to sustainable and ethical project practices.

Your experience and skills

• 10+ years of experience in construction project management, with a focus on commercial interior office fit-outs and large-scale projects.
• Extensive knowledge of health and safety standards and relevant qualifications, with a proven ability to maintain safe working environments.
• In-depth understanding of construction sequencing, building codes, and industry regulations.
• Advanced skills in reading and interpreting drawings and specifications for large, complex projects.
• Superior time management skills with the ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities, with a proactive approach to addressing challenges on-site.
• Demonstrated success in team development, mentoring, and leadership, with a focus on building high-performing teams.
• Keen attention to detail, ensuring the highest quality standards are met in every aspect of project delivery.
• Expertise in project management software systems and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget, with a strong ability to manage and motivate subcontractors.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required.

We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to providing reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process and employment lifecycle where required by applicable law.

Inclusion & Diversity

At Unispace, we believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams, our culture, and the work we deliver for our clients. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with respect and has the opportunity to thrive.

Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations.