Director, Design and Construction – Capital Projects

Society for College and University Planning; Kennesaw (GA); On-site; USD 142,000 - 174,000; Full time

Job summary

Kennesaw State University seeks a Director of Design and Construction – Capital Projects to lead the design and construction teams, managing projects from programming to closeout. You will drive budgets, schedules, and stakeholder coordination to deliver capital and non-capital projects that support students, faculty, and staff.

The role requires eight years in construction with five years in leadership, a relevant degree, and a valid driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
• Eight years in design and construction with five years supervising project management teams.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and construction teams to deliver projects on time and on budget.
• Oversee full project lifecycle from programming through closeout.
• Manage architect/engineer relationships and contracts.
• Ensure compliance with codes, budgeting, and scheduling.

Skills

Construction project management

Budget development

AutoCAD

Revit

Team leadership

Regulatory compliance

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture/Engineering/Construction Management

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Microsoft Project

Procore

e-Builder

Job description

Director, Design and Construction – Capital Projects

Posted: 8/7/26
Deadline: 9/30/26
Salary: The salary range is up to $158,000. Offers are based on relative experience.
Reference Number: Job Opening ID: 301251

About This Organization

Kennesaw State University

Job Duties

JOB PURPOSE:

Responsible for the oversight of new and renovation design and construction projects through the leadership of project management personnel. Responsible for managing the full project lifecycle from programming and design through construction administration and project closeout; including project scoping, budget development and management, and schedule adherence to ensure the successful completion of capital and non-capital design and construction projects. Partners across the institution with a clear customer service focus of delivering projects that support KSU students, faculty, and staff in achieving the KSU mission.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Oversees and is responsible for the leadership and performance management of the design and construction team to ensure quality KSU projects are completed on time and on budget
2. Manages the full project lifecycle, including design phase oversight (schematic design, design development, and construction documents), construction administration, and project closeout including punch list, commissioning, and warranty management
3. Reviews and evaluates design deliverables at each phase gate for completeness, constructability, code compliance, and alignment with university program requirements prior to bidding or submission to regulatory agencies
4. Manages architect, engineer, and design consultant relationships including selection, scope development, contract negotiation, and ongoing performance evaluation
5. Responsible for developing and implementing best industry practice processes and procedures to ensure best value for KSU and adherence to state and Board of Regents standards and requirements
6. Partners with divisional directors as well as all KSU stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and facilitated project process
7. Responsible for partnering with Procurement and BOR Real Estate and Facilities to ensure compliance with procurement requirements while identifying strategies for efficiency and cost effectiveness
8. Identifies and champions strategic initiatives to support sustainable design and infrastructure for building and campus-wide initiatives
9. Supports project managers in the resolution of complex design and construction challenges and identification of potential project impacts
10. Trains project managers in best practices in design review, budget and schedule development, construction administration, and project closeout
11. Oversees the department budget, including monitoring expenditures, analyzing variances, and ensuring resources are managed effectively to meet operational and financial objectives

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

• Familiarity with relevant building codes and standards
• Extensive experience in construction project management
• Experience managing architect/engineer consultant contracts, including scope development, fee negotiation, and performance evaluation
• Experience overseeing design phase deliverables (schematic design, design development, construction documents) and construction administration through project closeout
• In-depth knowledge of applicable building codes and regulations
• Knowledge of construction administration processes including RFIs, submittals, change orders, and substantial completion procedures
• Industry knowledge of materials, manufacturers, vendors, and construction methods
• Able to identify end user requirements, provide solutions, and deliver projects to meet user needs
• Comfortable with sitting for extended periods of time
• Physical ability to conduct site walks
• Able to read, interpret, and critically evaluate architectural and engineering drawings and specifications, preferably using AutoCAD and/or Revit
• Able to handle multiple tasks or projects at one time meeting assigned deadlines
• Excellent interpersonal, initiative, teamwork, problem solving, independent judgment, organization, communication (verbal and written), time management, project management and presentation skills
• Strong financial management and budget development skills
• Proficient with computer applications and programs associated with the position (i.e., Microsoft Office suite, Microsoft Project and project management software (e.g., Procore, e-Builder, or similar))
• Strong attention to detail and follow-up skillsStrong customer service skills and professional communication etiquette

Required Qualifications

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIRED:
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher education in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:
Eight (8) years of related experience in design and construction, including demonstrated experience managing projects from design through construction closeout including a minimum of five (5) years of supervisory experience leading project management teams.

MINIMUM LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION REQUIRED BY LAW AND/OR INSTITUTION:
Current, valid, and unrestricted driver’s license

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: (Preferred qualifications)
An advanced degree from an accredited institution of higher education in a related field
Previous experience in higher education settings
Experience in commercial settings, including research laboratory construction
Experience managing projects that align with Board of Regents and state requirements
Familiarity with Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission (GSFIC) processes
Experience with sustainable design principles and energy efficiency planning
Professional Architectural, Engineering, or similar license

Kennesaw, GA

Job Opening URL:
https://careers.hprod.onehcm.usg.edu/psc/careers/CAREERS/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=43000&JobOpeningId=301251&PostingSeq=1