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Section Manager - Water Construction

Burns & McDonnell
Chicago, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 7/29/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/3/2027
Description

This Construction Section Manager is responsible for the managerial direction and leadership of the Great Lakes Region (GLR) Construction Group focusing specifically on building and developing the Water Construction group in GLR. This position is responsible for the leadership and development of Construction Coordinators, Assistant Construction Managers and Construction Project Managers. This includes supporting and executing business strategy, developing high performance teams, and promoting the Burns & McDonnell culture, values and mission. The Construction Water Section Manager will lead the section in a dynamic and profitable manner based on Burns & McDonnell's core values of client satisfaction, commitment, dedication, integrity, safety and overall outstanding service.

What you will do

  • Work closely with GLR Water Global Practice Manager and GLR CDB Global Practice Manager to develop business strategy, target clients and business lines, and effectively win and execute EPC/Design-Build work.
  • Provide leadership to the team; direct and coordinate work assignments and review performance to ensure the efficient, cost-effective utilization of staff.
  • Responsible for profitable growth of the section; ensuring staff levels, staff loading, and staff assignments meet project requirements while maintaining billable goals.
  • Lead in project planning, scheduling, estimating, cost, and establishing critical Construction and/or Self-Perform project objectives.
  • Responsible for successful project execution and timely completion of projects within budget while providing expertise in multiple facets of projects including safety, quality, procurement, construction, environmental compliance, project controls, and public/community relations.
  • Responsible for accurate communication between WTR GP and CDB GP.
  • Implement, apply and support company, global practice and/or regional office programs and initiatives; successfully navigating and managing change within the section.
  • Achieve stated targets and standards for financial performance.
  • Manage section budget and expenditure of funds.
  • Review workload and monthly financial reports deliverables including project scheduling, budgeting, cash flow forecast, and project status reports.
  • Manage and present project issues, project status, risks, schedule and costs to all internal and external stakeholders; manage internal/external risk mitigation communication plan.
  • Manage communication with governmental, industry, and public entities, and community relations on project-related matters.
  • Responsible for collaborating with business development managers, business line leads, project managers, and proposal production staff on proposals to secure work for staff.
  • Conduct project safety, quality, progress and financial audits and assessments as required.

Specific Areas Of Responsibility Include The Following

  • Develop, propose, and execute projects and/or programs.
  • Recruiting key project staff and retaining quality employees
  • Create and cultivate key relationships within target external client organizations and internal clients including global practices, regional office, world headquarters, human resources and executive leadership
  • Champion employee development via training, mentoring and career-development opportunities
  • Key areas of training include, but not limited to:
  • Business Development
  • Safety
  • Contract Admin
  • Risk Management
  • Project Controls
  • Procurement
  • On-the-job (OJT) Training
  • Derive feedback from managing PMs and ensure proper feedback is given in a timely fashion
  • Interpret policies, procedures, and goals of organization to staff
  • Partner and support human resources related initiatives related to recruiting, training, retention and performance management
  • Responsible for maintaining Burns & McDonnell Safety program and the Live Safer culture
  • Ensure quality and safety standards

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, construction, or related degree from an accredited program and 5 years related professional experience in design and/or project management required or applicable experience may be substituted for the degree requirement required.
  • Previous leadership and/or management experience is preferable.
  • Must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to clearly and effectively present complex information to all levels of employees, management, and clients.
  • Position requires the ability to thoughtfully and positively influence, lead, and manage change.
  • Must possess strong project management skills and a strategic perspective.
  • Must be expert in the use of computer software (i.e., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Compensation

$125,000.00-310,000.00 Yearly

The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.

Benefits

Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.

This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.

EEO/Disabled/Veterans

Job Construction Services

Primary Location US-IL-Chicago

Schedule: Full-time

Travel: Yes, 25 % of the Time

Req ID: 251733

Job Hire Type Experienced #CDB N/A

Salary : $125,000 - $310,000

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