Description
The Construction Manager is responsible for leading all projects during the active construction phase through final completion, turnover, and closeout. This role serves as the primary field and execution authority, ensuring that all projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with design intent, brand standards, and quality expectations.
This position operates as the direct counterpart to the Preconstruction Manager and assumes full ownership of projects once they transition from design and pricing into construction execution. The Construction Manager is accountable for contractor performance, site coordination, schedule enforcement, and issue resolution across multiple active projects within higher education and private education food service environments.
This is a high-level position, fast-paced, and requires a high level of skill and organization. Only highly qualified individuals with proficient experience will be considered.
Responsibilities
Project Execution & Oversight
โข Assume full ownership of projects at turnover from Preconstruction
โข Manage all phases from mobilization through substantial completion and final closeout
โข Ensure alignment with contract documents, drawings, and specifications
โข Maintain and enforce project schedules, identifying and mitigating delays
โข Enforce strict quality control across all trades and installations
Contractor & Vendor Management
โข Serve as the primary point of contact for General Contractors and subcontractors
โข Lead weekly OAC meetings with clear documentation
โข Hold contractors accountable for schedule, manpower, sequencing, and workmanship
โข Review contractor schedules and validate feasibility
โข Coordinate procurement and installation of FFE and specialty items
Site Coordination & Field Leadership
โข Conduct regular site visits and field inspections
โข Identify and resolve field conflicts and constructability issues in real time
โข Ensure compliance with safety standards and site logistics
โข Coordinate phasing for projects in active facilities
Submittals, RFIs, and Change Management
โข Manage the submittal process during construction
โข Ensure timely review and return of submittals
โข Oversee the RFI process and ensure clarity and completeness
โข Evaluate and validate change orders
โข Maintain full change tracking logs
Budget & Cost Control
โข Track costs against approved budgets
โข Review and validate contractor pay applications
โข Identify cost risks and mitigate proactively
โข Coordinate cost impacts with the Preconstruction Manager
Project Closeout & Turnover
โข Lead the punchlist process through completion
โข Ensure all closeout documents are received (OM manuals, warranties, as-builts)
โข Coordinate inspections and approvals
โข Oversee turnover to the client and stakeholders
Qualifications
โข 7-10+ years commercial construction management experience
โข Strong experience with interior renovations and active environments
โข Food service or institutional experience preferred
โข Deep understanding of construction documents and coordination
โข Strong knowledge of submittals, RFIs, and change orders
โข Proficiency in project management software
โข Excellent communication and leadership skills
Core Competencies
โข Schedule Management and Recovery Planning
โข Field Coordination and Conflict Resolution
โข Contractor Accountability
โข Quality Control and Detail Orientation
โข Budget Oversight
โข Decision-Making Under Pressure
Success Metrics
โข Projects delivered on schedule and within budget
โข Minimal change order exposure
โข High-quality installations aligned with design intent
โข Timely submittal and RFI processing
โข Complete and clean closeouts