Director, Construction Operations (underground utilities, water/ ww infrastructure)

CWS is an equal opportunity employer and affords equal opportunity to all applicants and employees for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other status protected under local, state or federal laws. 

Position Summary

The Director, Construction Operations (CMS) is a leadership role, reporting to the EVP, CMS, and is responsible for overseeing all construction-related activities within CWS. This includes planning, coordinating, and executing capital improvement projects, infrastructure upgrades, and emergency repairs for water and wastewater facilities, as well as other public works projects. The Director ensures that all construction projects are completed safely, on time, within scope, and on budget, while meeting regulatory and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for all construction operations across multiple project sites.
• Manage a team of project managers, superintendents, engineers, and field crews.
• Oversee planning, scheduling, budgeting, procurement, and resource allocation for construction projects.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations governing water, wastewater, and public works construction.
• Coordinate closely with operations, engineering, and client services teams to align construction efforts with operational needs.
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, contractors, regulatory agencies, and vendors.
• Implement and monitor quality control and safety programs across all construction projects.
• Lead contract negotiation, risk assessment, and change management processes.
• Review and approve project cost estimates, pay applications, and financial reports.
• Track project performance using KPIs and provide regular updates to executive leadership.
• Drive continuous improvement in construction practices, tools, and technologies.
• Recruit, mentor and develop staff, fostering a high-performing and safety-focused culture.

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Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field is preferred
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in construction management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Strong background in water and wastewater facility construction, pipeline installation, pump stations, and municipal infrastructure.
• In-depth knowledge of construction methods, contract management (e.g., CMAR, design-bid-build), permitting, and environmental regulations.
• Proven experience managing multi-million-dollar capital improvement projects.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in construction management software (e.g., Procore, Primavera, MS Project) and MS Office Suite.
• OSHA 30 Certification (or ability to obtain).
• PMP or CCM certification a plus.

Working Conditions

• Combination of office and field work; travel to job sites and client locations required.
• Occasional evening or weekend work based on project demands.
• Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions and job site environments.