Operations Manager

Alston Construction•Downers Grove, IL

42d•$165,000 - $190,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Alston Construction Company is a nationwide general contractor with over 20 offices and 40 years of experience. We are seeking passionate construction professionals who share our core values: commitment, integrity, teamwork, and respect. Our CEO, Paul Little, emphasizes the importance of enjoying others' success. If this resonates with you, we encourage you to apply. We offer a top-tier benefits package including medical, dental, vision, disability insurance, life insurance, HSA, FSAs, EAP, 401(k) and Roth 401(k) options, paid time off, holidays, tuition reimbursement, and more. The pay range for this position is $165,000 to $190,000 DOE.

Requirements

Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
Minimum of 15 years of progressive operations experience, to include supervisory experience, with a general contractor.
An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
Design-build experience on relevant project types.
Valid State-issued driver’s license and vehicle insurance which meets Alston Construction liability coverage requirements and satisfactory driving record.
OSHA 30-hour Certification.
First Aid/CPR Certification.
Ability to exercise initiative and to work well with discretion and sound independent judgment with minimal supervision, as well as in a team environment.
Thorough understanding of the Company’s services, policies, processes, procedures and systems.
Strong knowledge and understanding of the internal operations of a construction design-build general contractor, the construction industry, and the local construction market.
Ability to maximize profitability and successfully balance the needs and expectations of the client while maintaining the Company’s standards and reputation and mitigating risks.
Ability to lead and supervise employees, including mentoring and developing capabilities in others.
Thorough understanding of buyout, scheduling, sequencing, documentation compliance, means and methods, quality control, cost control, and change management.
Strong negotiation skills; ability to achieve goals by effectively negotiating with different individuals and personalities in various situations and circumstances.
Thorough understanding of multiple project delivery types, including Design-Build, CM at Risk, CM not at Risk, General Contractor (hard bid and negotiated), etc.
Thorough understanding of prime and sub-contract provisions and contract delivery methods, including lump sum, guaranteed maximum price (GMP), cost-plus, etc. and ability to mitigate associated risks.
Knowledge of estimating techniques, cost control systems and accounts.
Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
Ability to read and understand drawings, specifications, maps, surveys, mechanical and electrical sheets, project schedules, cost reports, and other construction documents; understanding of contract provisions which address scope of work and design criteria.
Understanding of all local, state, federal and company safety and environmental regulations, codes, and requirements related to the construction industry.
Ability to impart knowledge to others.
Good knowledge of all sub trades and their relationship and impact on each other.
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, and make timely decisions.
Creative problem-solver; willing to try several approaches when initial solution fails.
Ability to effectively handle stress.
Excellent skills in organization, time management, planning, and prioritization.
Proactive and readily adaptable to changing conditions or demands and ability to work well under pressure and with tight deadlines.
Effective communication skills (written and verbal) and presentation skills.
Skilled at active listening techniques.
Gathers appropriate information before taking action and encourages others to listen and check before acting.
Communications are tactful, diplomatic, and influential.
Professional demeanor and effective interpersonal skills; ability to successfully interface with and to maintain good working relationships with co-workers, managers, clients, subcontractors, vendors, and others.
Strong industry contact relationships and the ability to assist in identifying and securing profitable new business.
Proficiency in computers, Microsoft Project, Word, Excel and Outlook, and CMiC.
Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, and reach.
Occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or climb.
Lift 10 lbs.
Extensive computer use and reading from documents and computer.
Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
Repetitive use of keyboard and mouse, extensive reading from documents and computer.
Willingness and ability to work extended hours and flexible schedules, including evenings and weekends.
Willingness and ability to travel.

Nice To Haves

Design-build experience on relevant project types.

Responsibilities

Assist in the general business operations of the company by daily management, supervision, coordination, and successful completion of projects for the assigned business unit(s).
Mentor, develop, and train the business unit’s Operations (project management and field supervision) staff.
Ensure the business unit’s operations are effective, comply with company policies and procedures, adhere to industry best practices, and are profitable.
Use discretion and independent judgment to perform daily duties and resolve business operations issues.
Participate in establishing short and long-term goals and objectives for business unit(s) and communicate them to staff.
Make recommendations for improving business operations, efficiency, and profitability.
Develop and maintain strong working relationships with Company staff, clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors.
Review contracts and assist with mitigating risks associated with project and contract terms.
Identify key issues in contract disputes and assist in mediating resolutions.
Assist in managing warranty and post-warranty claims.
Ensure all projects are completed in a quality manner, on time, and within budget.
Review ongoing project performance, including staffing, document control, job cost management, quality control, change order processing, and fee attainment.
Ensure subcontracts are "bought" in a fair and equitable manner and purchased at current market prices.
Act within and ensure compliance with Alston Construction’s "Levels of Authority".
Coordinate and confer with staff to resolve operating problems and challenges.
Resolve conflicts that could impede Alston Construction’s ability to meet goals and client expectations.
Plan, manage, and complete assignments and projects on time and accurately.
Assume responsibility for the performance and productivity of self and team.
Consistently provide others with appropriate day-to-day and strategic information for informed decision-making.
Provide leadership and guidance to staff, ensuring effective and efficient operation of business unit(s) and compliance with policies.
Proactively identify workforce needs and assist in recruiting efforts.
Interview and assist in the selection of new staff.
Communicate regularly with staff, evaluate performance, and provide feedback.
Assist in completing timely formal performance evaluations.
Mentor, develop, and train Operations staff.
Recommend appropriate personnel actions.
Create and foster collaborative and effective team relationships.
Conduct or participate in presentations to clients.
Assist in identifying new work opportunities and advise VP/GM of potential projects.
Lead or participate in the pursuit of project leads.
Participate in applicable corporate meetings and forums.
Perform Project Management and Superintendent duties as necessary.
Comply with all safety policies, report safety concerns, and make recommendations for safety program enhancements.
Visibly support and uphold the company’s strong safety culture.
Ensure employees conduct construction activities in a safe, clean, and orderly working environment.
Ensure job site compliance with the Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP).
Remain current in all company-required safety training and certifications and ensure staff remains current.
Acknowledge and celebrate safe behaviors and actions of others.
Understand and work within the accepted ethical standards of the company.
Proactively support and encourage diversity on projects and teams.
Visibly support and promote fair and equal treatment and opportunity for all.
Stay abreast of changes in the industry, best practices, and other industry information.
Share pertinent industry information with others.
Continuously find ways to take on challenges, increase skills and capacity, and improve knowledge and performance.