Director, Construction - Biopharma Mega Project Leader

Allergan; North Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

AbbVie is seeking a Director of Construction to provide senior leadership for a ~$500 million pharmaceutical capital project. The role ensures safe, compliant construction execution and alignment with governance, quality systems, and regulatory expectations, acting as the owner’s on-site authority to integrate construction with engineering, procurement, CQV, and operations.

You will lead the construction management organization, oversee EPC/CM partners and trade contractors, drive schedule and

Qualifications

• BS, Engineering or equivalent technical degree required.
• 20+ years of experience as a construction leader, preferably in biopharmaceutical industry in the United States.
• Proven leadership in construction management of mega-capital projects ($500MM+).

Responsibilities

• Lead the owner’s construction management organization and site teams.
• Govern EPC/CM contractors to meet schedule, cost, and quality objectives.
• Develop construction execution strategies, site procedures, and performance expectations.
• Coordinate with engineering, procurement, CQV, and operations teams for integrated delivery.
• Drive safety programs, risk mitigation, and continuous improvement across construction activities.
• Provide regular reporting to senior leadership on safety, schedule, cost, risk, and performance.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Negotiation

Risk management

Communication

Mentorship

Education

BS in Engineering or equivalent

Job description

AbbVie is seeking a Director of Construction to provide senior leadership for a ~$500 million pharmaceutical capital project. The role ensures safe, compliant construction execution and alignment with governance, quality systems, and regulatory expectations, acting as the owner’s on-site authority to integrate construction with engineering, procurement, CQV, and operations.

You will lead the construction management organization, oversee EPC/CM partners and trade contractors, drive schedule and