Architect, Director of Construction Operations (Savannah)

SCAD Savannah seeks a highly skilled director of construction operations (architect) to oversee design and construction for new construction, renovations, and various university capital improvement projects.

As a director of construction operations (architect), you will ensure timely, high-quality deliverables within budget and oversee the entire operational lifecycle of construction projects. You will lead the creation of innovative design concepts that meet client needs and push aesthetic boundaries, as well as implement all phases of the design process (e.g., conceptual and schematic design, design development, construction documentation, and construction administration). Among other duties, you will oversee multidisciplinary teams comprising project managers, superintendents, and junior architects, and will provide critical feedback to junior staff to ensure all drawings align with university standards and the project’s intent. You will also engage designers and coordinate details as necessary to ensure the contractor has adequate detail to deliver the work activities as intended by the owner. Additionally, you will conduct deep-dive reviews of construction documents (CDs) to prevent errors that result in costly change orders.

In this role, you will navigate complex zoning laws, building codes, and environmental regulations to secure necessary permits. You will review bid proposals and recommend a vendor based on competitive pricing and overall qualifications to perform the work as intended. Responsibilities include reviewing contract documents and exhibits to clearly communicate the intended scope of work and establishing and managing job budgets and schedules. You will also review construction invoices and monitor lien waivers and payments to subcontractors and tier subcontractors. Among other duties, you will foster positive relationships with regulatory agencies; participate in weekly construction update meetings to meet budget, schedule, and quality goals; and ensure that deliverables are on time and within budget. Additionally, you will coordinate with university personnel throughout all phases of occupancy, conduct post-occupancy evaluations, and ensure safe working environments while adhering to all OSHA standards and other requirements.

The ideal candidate demonstrates excellent communication, problem-solving, and supervisory skills. They have a thorough understanding of all phases of the design and construction process. The candidate can foster strong relationships between contractors, suppliers, and university personnel. They are self-motivated, self-managed, and have a strong work ethic. The candidate can also read and understand architectural and engineering drawings and specifications. Additionally, they can interpret and apply state law, local policies, and administrative and building code procedures or requirements.

Minimum qualifications:

• Bachelor's or master's degree in architecture or construction management

• Minimum of 10 years in architecture and construction with at least five years in a senior leadership role

• Professional experience in complex budget management

• Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, Procore, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office Suite

Preferred qualifications:

• Registered architect

• Familiarity with 4D/5D BIM

Certificates, licenses, and registrations:

• Valid driver’s license

• Acceptance as a SCAD-authorized driver

Able to pass the DOT medical exam

Travel required:

• 10–20%

Work hours: The university work week is Sunday through Saturday. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. To accommodate business needs, employees may be assigned to other workdays and/or hours, including weekends and evenings.

ADA tag: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements and minimum qualifications listed represent the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions and/or meet the minimum qualifications.