Construction Manager - U.S. Embassy Project

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

We are seeking an experienced Construction Manager (CM) to support a U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) construction project in Bern, Switzerland .

The project consists of comprehensive Design Intent improvements across the U.S. Embassy , encompassing 23 separate requirements focused on life safety, security, life-cycle improvements, and operational resilience . The Construction Manager will work directly with the OBO Project Director and project team to oversee construction activities, contractor performance, quality, safety, schedule, cost, and contract compliance.

The Construction Manager will:

• Assist the OBO Project Director with planning, directing, managing, and coordinating construction activities. 
• Provide leadership and guidance to project personnel. 
• Monitor contractor performance against quality, schedule, cost, safety, and contract requirements . 
• Perform field QA inspections and verify the contractor's QC program. 
• Review drawings, specifications, contractor submittals, substitutions, and RFIs. 
• Track submittals and ensure timely review and resolution. 
• Monitor compliance with the International Building Code and applicable U.S. construction standards. 
• Review contractor change-order proposals and assist with Statements of Work and IGEs. 
• Review contractor monthly payment requests and verify completed work and stored materials. 
• Ensure contractors maintain accurate as-built documentation . 
• Maintain Daily Project Logs and prepare Monthly Progress Reports. 
• Monitor implementation of project safety and accident-prevention requirements. 
• Participate in project meetings and coordinate with contractors, engineers, architects, OBO personnel, the COR, and other stakeholders. 
• Support contract administration, including modifications, claims, and interpretation of contract requirements.  

Overseas Assignment

This is a 20-month, primarily on-site assignment in Bern, Switzerland . The regular work schedule is 50 hours per week , with up to 10 additional overtime hours per week when applicable and approved by the Project Director.

Candidates should be prepared for an international deployment and Swiss work-authorization process. A visa is required, and OBO may provide supporting official documentation. The contractor is responsible for housing, meals, transportation, healthcare, and other life-support requirements associated with the assignment. 

Requirements:

• Minimum 7 years of construction experience on projects of similar scope and value. 
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited U.S. university in: 
  • Construction Management 
  • Civil Engineering 
  • Mechanical Engineering 
  • Electrical Engineering 
  • Architecture 
• Candidates with engineering or architecture degrees must demonstrate substantial Construction Management experience . 
• Active Final Secret, Interim Top Secret, or Final Top Secret clearance at time of proposal.  
• Must be capable of obtaining a Top Secret clearance . 
• Minimum Final Secret clearance required prior to overseas deployment . 
• Knowledge of International Building Codes and construction standards . 
• Knowledge of construction safety requirements, including EM 385-1-1 and OSHA . 
• Experience reviewing construction drawings, specifications, submittals, RFIs, design calculations, change orders, and contractor pay applications. 
• Experience performing construction Quality Assurance (QA) and monitoring contractor Quality Control (QC). 
• Experience preparing or supporting Independent Government Estimates (IGEs) . 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.  

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous U.S. Embassy/OBO construction experience . 
• Previous international/overseas construction experience. 
• Residential construction experience is beneficial but not required. 
• Certified Construction Manager (CCM), Professional Engineer (PE), or Registered Architect (RA) credential preferred.