Director of Operations

Director of Operations - Pre-Construction & Project ManagementPosition OverviewThe Director of Operations - Pre-Construction & Project Management is responsible for leading project management operations, overseeing pre-construction coordination, driving operational efficiency, and supporting profitable project growth. This role manages project managers, field supervisors, subcontractor relationships, operational processes, and project execution while collaborating closely with estimating, operations, accounting, and executive leadership teams.The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership experience within commercial HVAC, mechanical construction, or related construction environments, with the ability to mentor teams, improve processes, and strengthen customer and subcontractor relationships.Key ResponsibilitiesOperations & Project LeadershipOversee commercial construction projects across assigned territories.Provide leadership and field management support to Project Managers and Installation Supervisors in collaboration with Operations.Mentor field supervisors, installation managers, and installation technicians.Manage project execution, problem-solving, scheduling, and technical coordination.Support PM and subcontractor relationships to ensure successful project delivery.Oversee project performance, workflow management, and operational accountability.Team Development & ManagementRecruit, interview, hire, onboard, and develop Junior and Senior Project Managers.Conduct employee evaluations and provide ongoing mentorship and coaching.Lead monthly team meetings with structured agendas.Organize team-building and employee engagement events.Subcontractor & Vendor ManagementDevelop and maintain strong subcontractor and vendor partnerships.Assist in identifying, onboarding, and managing new subcontractors.Collaborate with estimating teams on project costing, project risks, and operational planning.Process Improvement & Operational EfficiencyDevelop and implement process improvements across project management and operations.Improve logistics, warehouse coordination, PM procedures, and project workload balancing.Collaborate with accounting and operations teams to establish financial review procedures for projects.Support continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency and profitability.Business Development & Client RelationsParticipate in project walkthroughs and pre-construction meetings as needed.Build and maintain strong customer relationships through regular communication and engagement.Support design-build project discovery, documentation, and handoff to estimating teams.Represent the company professionally in customer-facing interactions and industry events.Administrative & Leadership ResponsibilitiesMaintain confidentiality regarding executive discussions and operational processes.Collaborate with leadership teams on employee performance reviews and operational strategy.Support company growth initiatives and long-term operational planning.Key CompetenciesStrong leadership and team management skillsExcellent communication and interpersonal abilitiesTime management and prioritizationProblem-solving and decision-makingOperational planning and process improvementCustomer relationship managementAbility to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneouslyRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Business Management, or related field preferred.7-10 years of experience in commercial HVAC, mechanical construction, estimating, project management, or pre-construction operations.3-5 years of leadership experience managing operations, estimating, or project management teams.Strong knowledge of commercial HVAC systems, construction processes, estimating methodologies, and project management principles.Experience reviewing contracts, drawings, specifications, and bid documents.Proficiency with estimating software, CRM systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and construction management platforms.Strong analytical, organizational, negotiation, and leadership skills.Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with customers, subcontractors, vendors, and internal teams.Physical RequirementsAbility to walk, stand, talk, hear, bend, kneel, stoop, and climb ladders regularly.Ability to lift and maneuver up to 100 pounds with assistance or appropriate equipment.Ability to work in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.Comfortable working at heights, in crawl spaces, and on active construction sites.Ability to drive for extended periods in various weather and lighting conditions