Director of Construction

Director of Construction – University of Illinois Springfield

Overview: The Director of Construction is a full‑time academic professional responsible for managing construction projects from initial planning and design through bidding, construction, and warranty phases. The role also sets campus and University standards for project planning, design, and delivery methods, and leads real‑property condition assessments, utilization, and function.

• Strategic Planning & Project Definition:
  Evaluate and establish campus and University standards for project definition, planning, and design. Assist user groups in identifying renovation needs and writing scope of work and program statements. Determine feasibility and scope of remodeling projects. Coordinate building project conceptualization and feasibility studies with professionals and administrators. Assist with preparation and implementation of Facilities & Services policies and procedures related to project definition and planning.
• Budgeting & Financial Oversight:
  Develop project budgets and construction estimates for capital improvement projects. Reconcile and compile project budgets with input from all pertinent parties. Track funds expended and oversee funding for all projects, in conjunction with Business & Financial Operations. Work closely with shared administrative staff to ensure financial accuracy and accountability.
• Design & Construction Management:
  Review and respond to planning, design, and construction documents throughout all phases. Provide critical review of construction plans developed by outsourced architects and engineers. Coordinate efforts of in‑house Operations and Maintenance construction staff. Determine substantial completion of projects and gain team concurrence. Ensure project delivery includes punch list items, guarantees, warranties, release of liens, final payments, occupancy, record documents, and O&M manuals.
• Project Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement:
  Act as liaison for user‑requested change orders during construction. Help users understand design drawings and successfully occupy new spaces. Coordinate working relationships with peers and other University personnel. Help project team members communicate effectively.
• Consultant & Vendor Management:
  Manage the Qualifications‑Based Selection process for selecting architects, engineers, and consultants. Assist in preparing scopes of professional services required for each project. Act as liaison with the University Offices of Capital Programs and Real Estate Services and the Capital Development Board.
• Real Property & Space Utilization:
  Maintain accurate records of real property including building plans, utilization, occupancy, and utility locations. Identify underutilized space and propose alternatives to improve efficiency, cost, and environmental footprint. Prepare space usage reports and assist in coordinating space utilization across campus.
• Facilities Operations Oversight:
  Oversee Steam & Power Plant employees and operations. Coordinate building system maintenance, repair, and replacement.
• Additional duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in architecture or mechanical/electrical engineering.
• Experience in facilities planning.
• 10 years of progressively responsible experience in the construction of buildings and construction project management.
• General mobility enabling individual to inspect construction sites.

• Professional Engineers or Architects license.
• History of managing numerous projects simultaneously with success.
• Supervisory experience in the construction/facilities field.
• Proven track record of successful problem and claim resolution throughout a project.

• Thorough knowledge of estimating process.
• Good organizational skills.
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage projects.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Strong business decision making skills.
• Excellent communication, both written and verbal.
• Ability to delegate and supervise the work of supporting staff.
• Working knowledge of computer‑aided design and facilities management…