Director of Construction in Pender,NE,US

Full job description Director of Construction Operations - Municipal Water Treatment Leading Project Delivery for Critical Public Infrastructure We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Director of Construction Operations to oversee and support all aspects of construction for municipal water and wastewater treatment projects. This leadership role is vital to ensuring the safe, timely, and cost-effective delivery of complex infrastructure while maintaining the highest standards of quality, regulatory compliance, and client satisfaction. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership Direct and support project teams across all phases of municipal water/wastewater projects, ensuring success in key performance areas: safety, schedule, budget, quality, and community satisfaction. Actively participate in project selection through structured Go/No-Go assessments, with attention to regulatory requirements and risk exposure. Represent company leadership in client meetings, pre-construction planning, and municipal negotiations. Project & Financial Management Provide oversight of project estimating, budgeting, and profit planning-ensuring alignment with public-sector requirements and funding structures. Review and approve master schedules and 3-week look-ahead schedules; ensure milestones are clearly defined and met. Conduct monthly financial reviews with Ownership; support cost forecasting and implement corrective strategies to maintain financial performance. Identify risks early-such as under-performing subs, noncompliance issues, or scheduling gaps-and escalate when needed. Contract & Compliance Oversight Lead owner contract reviews and negotiations; identify contractual risks and ensure all terms are understood and followed by the project team. Assist in the negotiation of major subcontracts, particularly those related to high-risk or high-value scopes (e.g., mechanical piping, instrumentation, or process equipment). Ensure full compliance with project specifications, federal/state regulations, and agency oversight requirements (EPA, DEQ, DNR, etc.). Team Development & Staffing Mentor and support project managers, engineers, and field teams; foster a high-performance culture that values accountability, learning, and professional growth. Collaborate with Ownership to evaluate staffing needs, conduct interviews, and lead on-boarding for project personnel. Ensure project teams are resourced appropriately for complex water infrastructure scopes, including specialized trades. Safety & Quality Oversight Champion a culture of safety and ensure all work adheres to OSHA standards, company policies, and specific site safety plans. Conduct periodic field safety inspections and support third-party audit efforts. Ensure project teams maintain strict quality control processes, perform timely inspections, and meet all testing and commissioning requirements. Process Improvement & Standardization Lead implementation of company procedures, policies, and construction technology to standardize performance and reporting across all projects. Ensure teams are trained and equipped to use construction management platforms effectively. Client Relations & Community Engagement Serve as the primary liaison for municipal clients, consultants, and regulatory agencies. Promote transparency, responsiveness, and trust with public-sector stakeholders. Represent the company in public meetings or community forums as needed. Qualifications 10+ years of experience in heavy civil or municipal infrastructure construction, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. Proven track record in delivering water and wastewater treatment facilities, pump stations, or related public works projects. In-depth knowledge of public bidding processes, regulatory compliance, and contract administration. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities. Proficiency in construction management software and scheduling tools. Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field preferred.