Staff Construction Observer

Terracon; North Olmsted (OH); Hybrid; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Terracon in North Olmsted, OH is seeking a Construction Observer to provide on-site observation and documentation of construction activities, ensuring conformance with plans and specs. This full-time role emphasizes independent reporting and timely communication of deficiencies to the Client’s representatives.

The position requires travel Monday–Friday and a strong understanding of building methods, reading drawings, and precise documentation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or 9–11 years of relevant experience required.
• Valid driver’s license may be required.
• Strong understanding of commercial building construction methods and sequencing.
• 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.

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 across building systems and components.
• Prepare detailed daily field reports documenting workforce activity, progress, conditions, and weather impacts.
• Communicate observed deficiencies or concerns to the Client's Site Superintendent and designated representatives in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate photographic and written records of construction progress and 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 reporting and historical records.
• Notify the Client of observed jobsite safety concerns; enforcement remains the contractor's responsibility.

Skills

Reading blueprints

Documentation

Communication

Independent work

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree in building science

Experience in lieu of degree: 9–11 years

Tools

MS Office

Digital reporting platforms

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.

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 5-7 years’ experience in facility assessment, construction observation, construction inspection, field engineering, superintendent, or related construction experience. Or, in lieu of a degree, 9-11 years’ related experience.
• A valid driver’s license with acceptable violation history may be required.
• 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.