Director of Construction

Position Summary

The Office of University Architects (OUA) provides professional planning, design, and construction management for the University of Georgia's main campus and extended campuses for all major renovation and construction projects. Reporting to the Senior Director of Construction, the Director of Construction serves as a critical leader and trusted problem‑solver for the OUA, providing strategic leadership and hands‑on oversight for complex capital projects from pre‑construction through close‑out and warranty.

This position is responsible for proactively identifying risks, resolving issues before they escalate, and guiding teams through challenges related to quality, schedule, logistics, and budget.

Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent plus 12 years of professional experience, including 5 years of supervisory experience.

Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent and ten years of experience working in construction management or construction project management with an emphasis on higher education facilities. Ideally this would include experience with construction projects in an urban environment, research laboratories, classrooms, residence halls, dining facilities, and varsity sports facilities.

• In‑depth knowledge of higher education capital construction projects from planning and design through close‑out, delivered within established budgets and schedules.
• Comprehensive knowledge of current construction methods, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), applicable building and life safety codes, and their application across diverse project types.
• Expertise in pre‑construction services, construction phasing and logistics, quality control, materials testing, and commissioning for both renovation and new construction projects.
• Working knowledge of the facilities and physical plant operations typical of institutions of higher education, including an understanding of how construction activities interface with occupied campuses. Ability to physically access work areas that may include confined spaces or elevated locations.
• Ability to efficiently review and interpret construction documents, drawings, specifications, submittals, and code‑related issues; identify risks or discrepancies; and determine compliance with institutional standards and requirements.
• Knowledge of and commitment to appropriate safety and security practices relevant to construction and renovation work on an active campus.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, with strong organizational and project management skills. Proficiency with construction and project management software such as Bluebeam, e‑Builder, Procore, and similar platforms.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite and related productivity tools.
• Ability to exercise tact, diplomacy, and sound judgment when interacting with various stakeholders, including in sensitive or confidential situations.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to manage, supervise, mentor, and effectively delegate work to professional staff.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly to a wide range of audiences.
• Exceptional commitment to customer service and collaborative problem‑solving in support of institutional priorities.

• Walk on uneven terrain and walk through construction sites.
• Visit project sites across the state.
• Sit at a computer for long periods of time.

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• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of pre‑construction activities, coordinating closely with the OUA project teams, construction managers, design professionals, and associated consultants to ensure alignment with institutional goals.
• Anticipate, identify, and mitigate potential project risks during the pre‑construction phase; lead collaborative problem‑solving efforts and elevate critical issues as appropriate to maintain budget, schedule, and quality…