Construction Manager

Design and Development•Washington, DC

About The Position

The Construction Manager manages new restaurant buildouts and other construction projects from early site evaluation through project close-out. Working with Real Estate, Design, Operations, Marketing, and external partners, the role ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and in alignment with CAVA standards. The position contributes to company growth through consistent project execution, cross-functional collaboration, and proactive issue resolution. Managers at CAVA oversee daily execution for themselves and their teams, make operational decisions, support team development, lead with agility, foster inclusion, and drive results aligned with team and company priorities. This role includes travel at least 50% of the time.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field.
At least 5 years of experience in construction or project management, including at least 2 years overseeing multi-site retail or restaurant buildouts.
Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, lease terms, and other technical documents.
Proven experience managing general contractors, vendors, and consultants across multiple concurrent projects.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel and MS Project.
Ability to travel at least 50% of the time.

Nice To Haves

PMP certification.
Experience with Procore, Sitefolio, Plan Grid, or Bluebeam.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and manage all phases of construction projects for new restaurant locations and production facilities, from pre-lease evaluation through project close-out.
Collaborate with Real Estate and Design during site evaluation, contributing to feasibility assessments, Letter of Intent terms, landlord work letters, scope validation, cost projections, and pro formas.
Develop and manage project budgets, update costs throughout execution, and validate financial projections with internal stakeholders.
Prepare project schedules and timelines for corporate leadership review and approval.
Review design documents for constructability and cost and schedule impacts, and provide feedback to design teams and consultants.
Oversee permitting with expediters, architects, and landlords to ensure timely approvals and compliance.
Manage general contractor bidding, including issuing RFPs, reviewing bids, negotiating terms, and securing internal approvals.
Review, negotiate, and administer contractor and vendor contracts.
Ensure OSI items are priced and procured for restaurant projects and manage vendors for project-specific needs.
Conduct regular site visits, lead construction progress meetings, and resolve day-to-day issues to maintain quality, brand, and schedule expectations.
Coordinate pre-opening activities with Operations and Marketing, including equipment and goods delivery for training readiness, and ensure smooth project turnovers to Operations.
Address post-occupancy issues with Facilities and manage warranty close-out, significant repairs, and renovations.
Maintain accurate project documentation and records, including obtaining and archiving final entitlements, as-builts, and permits.

Benefits

Competitive salary, bonus, and long-term incentives.
Early Wage Access.
Unlimited PTO.
Paid parental leave.
Paid opportunities to give back to the community.
Health, dental, and vision insurance.
Telemedicine.
Pet insurance.
401(k) with CAVA contribution.
Company-paid short-term disability, long-term disability, life, and AD&D coverage for salaried positions.
Free CAVA food.
Casual work environment.