Director of Operations

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Director of Operations to lead and oversee daily operations for water and wastewater infrastructure projects serving municipal clients. This leadership role ensures operational excellence, manages project execution, improves workflows, and leads project managers and field teams to deliver high-quality projects safely, on time, and within budget.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and support Project Managers, supervisors, and production staff.
• Oversee daily operations for water distribution, wastewater, and utility construction projects.
• Monitor project schedules, budgets, documentation, safety compliance, and quality standards.
• Ensure company vehicles, equipment, tools, and shop facilities are organized, maintained, and operational.
• Coordinate staffing, resource allocation, and operational readiness across multiple projects.
• Develop and improve operational systems, processes, and workflows to increase efficiency.
• Identify and resolve operational challenges before they impact project delivery.
• Maintain regular visibility into field operations and overall departmental performance.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations, municipal requirements, and company safety standards.
• Collaborate with leadership to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred.
• 10+ years of construction operations experience, preferably in utility or heavy civil construction.
• Strong experience managing water distribution systems, wastewater infrastructure, and pump station projects.
• Proven leadership experience overseeing multiple project managers and field teams.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.
• Willingness to travel within a 200-mile radius of Columbia, SC.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with municipal water and wastewater infrastructure projects.
• Certifications related to water/wastewater operations, utility construction, or construction safety (OSHA, Water Operator Certifications, etc.).
• Strong background in operational planning, process improvement, and team development.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a hands-on operations leader with extensive experience in utility construction, water and wastewater infrastructure, and team management. They possess strong leadership, operational planning, and project execution skills, with a proven ability to improve efficiency while ensuring safe and successful project delivery.

Location: Columbia, SC (On-site)