Director of Operations

Overview:
An employee-owned structural steel construction company is seeking a highly experienced Director of Operations to lead all shop fabrication and field erection activities. This senior leadership role is accountable for production efficiency, quality, schedule adherence, staffing, and overall operational execution. The Director of Operations will work closely with Estimating, Project Management, and executive leadership to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and profitably.

The Role:
The Director of Operations provides strategic and day-to-day leadership for both shop and field operations, ensuring operational excellence, adherence to schedules, and the highest quality standards. Success in this role means optimizing workflow, workforce performance, and resource allocation while fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership and oversight for all shop fabrication and field erection operations.

• Establish operational goals, production plans, and performance metrics aligned with company objectives.

• Ensure fabrication and erection activities meet contractual requirements, schedules, and budget constraints.

• Maintain overall quality performance, overseeing QA/QC programs and AISC compliance.

• Identify and resolve production bottlenecks, manpower constraints, and material flow issues.

• Monitor shop throughput, field productivity, and labor efficiency metrics.

• Oversee staffing, workforce planning, recruitment, training, and retention of skilled personnel.

• Serve as executive-level interface with General Contractors, Construction Managers, and Owners.

• Collaborate with Estimating and Project Management for bid reviews, constructability input, sequencing, and change management.

• Support continuous improvement initiatives, including operational optimization and lean manufacturing practices.

• Enforce and promote a safety-first culture across shop and field operations in compliance with OSHA standards.

Requirements:

• 5–10 years of experience in construction, with proven leadership of large-scale shop and field operations.

• Strong experience managing production schedules, manpower allocation, and operational performance.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and decision-making skills.

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field preferred, or equivalent experience.

• Strong working knowledge of AISC codes, quality requirements, and structural steel fabrication and erection best practices.

Nice to Have:

• Experience in an AISC-certified fabrication and erection environment.

• Prior collaboration with Estimating and Project Management teams.

• Background in continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, or operational optimization initiatives.

• Prior experience in an employee-owned company environment.

Salary:
Competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications.

Location:
On-site, Tucson, AZ, United States of America. 

Benefits:

• Employee ownership participation (ESOP)

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid time off (PTO)

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Professional development opportunities

• Collaborative and supportive company culture