Electric Substation Construction Manager

Job description:

RUIZ is an Engineering, Pipeline Inspection, Project/Construction Management, and Surveying services firm. We support the Utility, Energy, and Oil & Gas sectors across the US. Our expertise enables us to deliver comprehensive solutions to our clients. We are dedicated to excellence and innovation in every project we undertake.

Role Description

Position Summary:

The Electric Substation Construction Manager is responsible for overseeing all field activities related to the construction of high-voltage and medium-voltage electrical substations. This role ensures that projects are executed safely, efficiently, on schedule, and in accordance with design specifications, quality standards, and regulatory requirements. The Construction Manager serves as the on-site leader, coordinating with project managers, engineers, contractors, and utility representatives to deliver successful substation projects from mobilization to energization. 

Key Responsibilities:

Construction Oversight 

• Plan, direct, and supervise substation construction activities, including site preparation, foundations, steel erection, equipment installation, wiring, grounding, and commissioning support. 
• Ensure adherence to engineering drawings, project specifications, and applicable codes and standards (e.g., IEEE, NESC, NEC, OSHA). 
• Manage daily job site operations, including crew coordination, scheduling, logistics, and material management. 
• Oversee subcontractor performance, ensuring quality workmanship, safety compliance, and productivity. 
• Review and approve construction progress, ensuring alignment with project milestones and budget targets. 

Safety & Quality Management 

• Enforce corporate and site-specific safety programs, conducting regular inspections, toolbox talks, and safety audits. 
• Promote a culture of safety and accountability, ensuring all personnel follow proper procedures and regulations. 
• Maintain strict quality control during all phases of construction, identifying and resolving deficiencies promptly. 

Coordination & Reporting 

• Serve as the primary on-site point of contact for project management, engineering, and client representatives. 
• Communicate daily progress, issues, and resource needs to project management teams. 
• Participate in project meetings to review schedules, progress updates, and change orders. 
• Maintain accurate and detailed records, including field reports, inspections, testing results, and as-built documentation. 

Resource & Team Leadership 

• Supervise field supervisors, foremen, and craft personnel. 
• Plan manpower needs and coordinate crew assignments and equipment usage. 
• Provide mentorship and guidance to construction teams, promoting teamwork and professional development. 

Cost & Schedule Management 

• Monitor project expenditures, equipment usage, and labor productivity to ensure cost efficiency. 
• Assist project management in forecasting budgets, schedules, and material needs. 
• Recommend corrective actions to address deviations from the project plan. 

Qualifications:

Education & Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Electrical Engineering, or related field preferred (equivalent field experience accepted). 
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in substation or high-voltage electrical construction, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or management role. 
• Strong understanding of substation construction processes, including foundations, steel erection, buswork, control house installation, and equipment wiring. 
• Experience working with utility companies, EPC contractors, or transmission/distribution projects is highly desirable. 

Skills & Competencies: 

• Proven leadership and personnel management skills. 
• In-depth knowledge of construction methods, standards, and best practices for high-voltage facilities. 
• Excellent organizational, planning, and communication abilities. 
• Proficient in interpreting engineering drawings, schematics, and one-line diagrams. 
• Familiarity with project management and field reporting tools (e.g., Primavera P6, Procore, or MS Project). 
• Strong commitment to safety and quality assurance. 

Certifications (Preferred): 

• OSHA 30 Certification 
• First Aid/CPR Certification 
• PMP or Construction Management Certification a plus 

Other Requirements: 

• Ability to travel to job sites across various regions. 
• Capable of working in outdoor and physically demanding environments. 
• Must hold a valid driver’s license.