Field Construction Observer

Terracon; Ohio; On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Terracon in the United States seeks a Construction Observer to perform full-time, on-site observation and documentation of construction activities, ensuring conformance with plans, specs, and contract documents. The role acts as an independent observer and reporter, noting deficiencies and communicating findings to the Client’s designated representatives.

Travel is required Monday through Friday. Candidates should have a building science degree or equivalent experience and strong skills in

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in building science or related field, or 4-9 years of equivalent experience.
• Strong understanding of commercial building construction methods and docs.
• Ability to read/interpret drawings, specs, submittals, and contract documents.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital reporting platforms.
• Excellent written communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision while engaging stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a daily on-site presence during active construction operations.
• Observe and document construction activities for conformance with plans and contract requirements.
• Monitor installation across building systems (architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection).
• Prepare detailed daily field reports on workforce activity, progress, weather, and events.
• Communicate deficiencies or concerns to the Client’s Site Superintendent promptly.
• Maintain photographic and written records of progress and milestones.
• Attend project meetings, orientations, and safety briefings as directed.
• Coordinate daily activities through the Client’s site representative.
• Track project progress and maintain organized documentation for reporting.

Skills

Reading drawings

Independent working

Strong written communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in building science

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

General Responsibilities
The Construction Observer provides full-time, on-site observation and documentation of construction activities to assist the Client in monitoring project progress and the general conformance of the work with project plans, specifications, and contract documents. The Construction Observer serves as an independent observer and reporter, documenting construction activities, identifying apparent deficiencies, and communicating observations to the Client's designated representatives. The role does not include construction management, contractor supervision, safety management, or acceptance of the work.

General Responsibilities
The Construction Observer provides full-time, on-site observation and documentation of construction activities to assist the Client in monitoring project progress and the general conformance of the work with project plans, specifications, and contract documents. The Construction Observer serves as an independent observer and reporter, documenting construction activities, identifying apparent deficiencies, and communicating observations to the Client's designated representatives. The role does not include construction management, contractor supervision, safety management, or acceptance of the work.
The position required full-time travel Monday-Friday.
Essential Roles And Responsibilities

• Maintain a daily on-site presence during active construction operations as directed by the Client.
• Observe and document construction activities for general conformance with project drawings, specifications, and contract requirements.
• Monitor installation activities associated with building systems and components, including architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection work.
• Prepare detailed daily field reports documenting workforce activity, work progress, observed conditions, weather impacts, site logistics, and noteworthy project events.
• Communicate observed deficiencies, nonconforming work, or potential concerns to the Client's Site Superintendent and designated representatives in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate photographic and written records of construction progress and significant project milestones.
• Attend required project meetings, site orientations, and safety briefings as directed by the Client.
• Coordinate daily activities through the Client's designated site representative.
• Track project progress and maintain organized documentation to support project reporting and historical records.
• Notify the Client of observed jobsite safety concerns while recognizing that enforcement of safety requirements remains the responsibility of the Contractor.
  

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in building science or related building field and up to 5 years’ experience in facility assessment. Or, in lieu of a degree, 4-9 years’ related experience.
• Strong understanding of commercial building construction methods, sequencing, and construction documentation.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, submittals, and contract documents.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and digital reporting platforms.
• Strong written communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision while maintaining professional interactions with project stakeholders.