What are the responsibilities and job description for the Construction Manager position at Case Western Reserve University?
Under periodic supervision, the Construction Manager leads moderate to large capital construction projects, aligning with the Construction Department’s goals and the university’s mission. In partnership with the Director of Construction and various university departments, this role defines and manages project scope, budget, schedule, and contract administration. Projects focus on electrical, mechanical, HVAC, plumbing, telecommunications, fire prevention, security systems, and architectural elements including finishes, furniture, and equipment.
Key objectives include selecting delivery methods, budgeting, developing RFQPs, reviewing consultant documents, and coordinating internal and external communications. The manager supports campus master plan initiatives, leading projects from design development through commissioning and occupancy.
Essential Functions1. Project Administration (30%)- Manage multiple projects ($25K–$50M) from planning to completion.
- Develop and monitor schedules, milestones, and budgets with university stakeholders.
- Assist in selecting design professionals, negotiate fees, and oversee design and bidding.
- Ensure compliance with university standards and maintain project records.
- Address discrepancies, propose solutions, and coordinate corrective actions.
- Review consultant-prepared documents for standards compliance.
- Lead simultaneous projects within a $3.7B, 9M sq. ft. campus and $100M annual capital program.
- Facilitate pre-bid meetings, site walk-throughs, and planning with stakeholders and bidders.
- Address contractor questions, obtain competitive pricing, and evaluate bids.
- Administer contracts, coordinate with Business & Finance, and ensure code compliance.
- Oversee project documentation, reporting, and communication of legal issues.
- Manage purchase orders and coordinate deliveries to align with project schedules.
- Oversee construction for compliance with contracts, schedules, and safety.
- Conduct site inspections, coordinate with Environmental Health & Safety, and manage hazardous material responses.
- Document meetings, issues, and resolutions; communicate changes and disruptions.
- Coordinate utility shutdowns and minimize operational impacts.
- Manage commissioning, system testing, and closeout documentation.
- Review and approve payments, verify deliverables, and facilitate project handover.
- Address post-construction issues and report significant matters to the director.
- Mentor and guide staff, support change initiatives, and collaborate with campus leaders.
- Assist with joint projects and provide support to university departments as needed.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Department: Daily with AVP/Director, Assistant Director, and Design/Construction Managers.
- University: Daily with facilities managers and staff; as needed with faculty and admin.
- External: Daily with architects, engineers, consultants; periodic with officials and partners.
- Students: As needed for specific projects.
- No direct staff supervision.
- Experience: 3 years in architecture, engineering, design, or construction management. AAU/R-1 university or medical facility experience preferred.
- Education: Bachelor’s in construction management, architecture, engineering, business, planning, or related field is required. Master’s and additional coursework in related areas preferred.
- Commitment to diversity and serving diverse communities.
- Experience in all phases of project planning, design, estimating, and construction administration.
- Knowledge of construction delivery methods (Design-Bid-Build, CM at Risk, Design-Build, etc.).
- Proven ability to lead multiple high-profile projects and set priorities.
- Strong financial, budgeting, and decision-making skills.
- Conceptual thinker with attention to detail.
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
- Effective written and oral communication.
- Team-building and collaboration skills.
- Technical proficiency with engineers and architects on campus infrastructure.
- Ability to read and explain drawings; strong presentation and documentation skills; proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Knowledge of accounting, budgeting, and cash flow.
- Proficiency in Excel, project management software, scheduling, and email platforms.
- Understanding of project planning, contracts, blueprints, and relevant codes/regulations.
- Knowledge of building systems (HVAC, controls, electrical, plumbing, fire, security, communications).
- Strategic, analytical, and business analysis skills; proactive problem-solving.
- Consistent attendance and reliability.
- Travel for site visits and research as required.
- Frequent inspections across campus and construction sites.
- Physical requirements: standing, walking, bending, crouching, climbing.
- Willingness to work extended hours as needed.
Salary : $100