Director of Construction Operations

CMTA, a Legence company
CMTA is one of the fastest growing engineering firms in the U.S., with nationally recognized expertise in sustainable, high-performance building engineering. We are a collaborative, innovative, and energetic team that leverages a data-driven, holistic approach to consulting engineering, performance contracting, and zero energy projects. We focus on finding engineers whose skills and personalities drive them to excel, fostering a workplace that provides unparalleled growth and career opportunities.


Job Title: Director of Construction
Job Summary:
The Director of Construction is responsible for providing leadership and oversight for construction activities following the design phase to ensure successful, safe, on-time, and on-budget project delivery. This role oversees multiple construction projects and on-site construction managers, establishes standardized processes, and serves as a key liaison between internal teams, subcontractors, vendors, and owners.
The Director of Construction brings deep expertise in HVAC/mechanical systems and commercial construction, along with exceptional leadership, communication, and financial management skills. This role balances field presence with office-based leadership and strategic planning. Travel to job sites is required.
The Director of Construction’s role will grow as the local team grows. Once the team is fully formed, the Director of Construction will lead and support the local team consisting of construction managers, engineers, design professionals, and administrative staff, while collaborating cross-functionally with executive leadership and external partners. The position will evolve as the local team evolves (more on-site time may be required until the local team is fully formed). The Director of Construction will also coordinate with headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky for safety program and other key project requirements to ensure best practices are being maintained for local projects.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Strategy
• Provide overall leadership, direction, and mentorship to Construction Managers and project teams
• Establish and continuously improve construction standards, best practices, and safety programs
• Partner with executive leadership on construction strategy, staffing, and resource planning
• Ensure consistent project execution across all active construction sites
• Act as senior escalation point for project risks, issues, and owner concerns
Pre-Construction Oversight
• Oversee review of project drawings for scope, constructability, risk mitigation, and cost optimization
• Guide and approve subcontractor selection strategies
• Oversee bid processes, including subcontractor RFPs, walkthroughs, and evaluations
• Review and approve construction contracts, including M&V requirements
• Ensure alignment between design intent, budget, and construction execution
Construction Execution
• Oversee development and execution of construction schedules and milestone tracking
• Ensure project safety plans are developed, implemented, and enforced across all sites
• Provide executive oversight of safety programs and compliance initiatives
• Approve subcontractor contracts and major procurement decisions
• Oversee equipment procurement, submittals, ordering, and lead-time management
• Ensure effective vendor coordination and factory start-up scheduling
• Lead or delegate construction review meetings and executive progress reviews
• Review weekly field reports and ensure accurate documentation for owners
• Oversee commissioning activities and M&V requirements during construction
• Review and approve subcontractor pay applications
• Maintain executive oversight of project financials, forecasting, and cost controls
• Ensure warranty registrations, owner training, and closeout activities are completed
Post-Construction & Closeout
• Provide oversight and resolution of post-construction and warranty issues
• Ensure completion and delivery of O&M manuals and as-built documentation
• Drive continuous improvement by capturing lessons learned from completed projects
Requirements
• 10+ years of progressive experience in construction management, preferably in commercial HVAC/mechanical construction
• 5+ years in a leadership role managing multiple projects and/or construction teams
• Proven experience overseeing complex, multi-site construction projects
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control
• Ability to travel regularly to project sites
Key Skills & Competencies
• Executive Leadership & Team Development
• Strategic Planning & Risk Management
• Construction & Mechanical Systems Exp