Director of Construction

UIS Observer; Springfield (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Dental and Vision

Paid Time Off

Tuition Waivers

Job summary

UIS Observer seeks a Director of Construction to manage projects from initial planning through construction and warranty phases. Responsibilities include strategic planning, budget management, and stakeholder coordination within the University of Illinois System. The role demands a strong background in project planning, construction management, and excellent communication skills.

Our ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's in architecture or engineering and has extensive experience in facilities planning, demonstrating leadership capabilities and a commitment to inclusivity and excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or 15 years of industry experience required.
• 10+ years of project management experience in facilities planning or development.
• 5+ years of leadership experience in construction or related fields.

Responsibilities

• Manage construction projects from planning to warranty phases.
• Develop budgets and oversee financial tracking for projects.
• Coordinate design reviews and ensure project delivery standards.

Skills

Project management

Construction oversight

Budgeting and financial oversight

Strong analytical skills

Excellent communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in architecture or engineering

Tools

Computer-aided design software

Job description

Summary

The Director of Construction is a full-time academic professional responsible for managing construction projects from initial planning and design through bidding, construction, and warranty phases. This role also involves setting and evaluating campus and university standards for project planning, design, and delivery methods. This role also leads real property condition assessments, utilization, and function.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning & Project Definition: Evaluate and establish campus and university standards for project definition, planning, and design. Assist user groups (Colleges, Departments, etc.) in identifying renovation needs and writing scope of work and program statements. Determine feasibility and scope of remodeling projects. Coordinate building project conceptualization and feasibility studies with professionals and administrators. Assist with preparation and implementation of Facilities & Services (F&S) policies and procedures related to project definition and planning.
• Budgeting & Financial Oversight: Develop project budgets and construction estimates for capital improvement projects. Reconcile and compile project budgets with input from all pertinent parties. Track funds expended and oversee funding for all projects, in conjunction with Business & Financial Operations. Work closely with shared administrative staff to ensure financial accuracy and accountability.
• Design & Construction Management: Review and respond to planning, design, and construction documents throughout all phases. Provide critical review of construction plans developed by outsourced architects and engineers. Coordinate efforts of in-house Operations and Maintenance (O&M) construction staff. Determine substantial completion of projects and gain team concurrence. Ensure project delivery includes punch list items, guarantees, warranties, release of liens, final payments, occupancy, record documents, and O&M manuals.
• Project Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement: Act as liaison for user-requested change orders during construction. Help users understand design drawings and successfully occupy new spaces. Coordinate working relationships with peers and other university personnel. Help project team members communicate effectively.
• Consultant & Vendor Management: Manage the Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) process for selecting architects, engineers, and consultants. Assist in preparing scopes of professional services required for each project. Act as liaison with the University Offices of Capital Programs and Real Estate Services (UOCP&RES) and the Capital Development Board.
• Real Property & Space Utilization: Maintain accurate records of real property including building plans, utilization, occupancy, and utility locations. Identify underutilized space and propose alternatives to improve efficiency, cost, and environmental footprint. Prepare space usage reports and assist in coordinating space utilization across campus.
• Facilities Operations Oversight: Oversee Steam & Power Plant employees and operations. Coordinate building system maintenance, repair, and replacement.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least one of the following: Bachelor's degree in architecture, mechanical or electrical engineering, construction management, or similar OR Minimum of 15 years of progressive relative industry experience (including but not limited to construction services, steam and power plant operations, civil/structural engineering).
• Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in project management for facilities planning and/or development.
• Minimum of 5 years in leadership role overseeing professionals in the industry of construction, civil/structural engineering, architecture, or similar.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Engineers or Architects license.
• History of managing numerous projects simultaneously with success.
• Supervisory experience in the construction/facilities field.
• Proven track record of successful problem and claim resolution throughout a project.
• Working knowledge of computer-aided design and facilities management systems software.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of estimating process.
• Good organizational skills.
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage projects.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Strong business decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, both written and verbal.
• Ability to delegate and supervise the work of supporting staff.
• Working knowledge of computer-aided design and facilities management systems software.

Equal Opportunity Employment

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, and diversity. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and we welcome applications from qualified individuals of all backgrounds and identities. The University of Illinois System does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, genetic information, marital status, disability, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military or status as a protected veteran and will comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders and regulations.

Employment Eligibility and Benefits

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted by contacting UIS HR at [e-mail] or call 217-206-6652.