MEP Director

MEP Director

Celebrated as one of Minnesota's Top Workplaces! Knutson Construction is accepting applications for a MEP Director to join our team in Minneapolis, MN.

Together We Make Dreams Real that is our purpose as a company and we exist to work in concert with each other, owners, design professionals and trade partners to make the journey as stress-free as possible. Together, we've created a dynamic, fun, inspiring environment where we can be ourselves and grow each day. Knutson is deeply committed to cultivating and upholding diversity throughout our workforce, relationships, and communities. We recognize the utmost importance of continually advancing our comprehension of diversity, equity, and inclusion as transformative forces within our work, industry, and company values.

At Knutson, opportunities to shine happen daily. We value what makes you different and empower you to act on your ideas.

As the Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Director, you will develop MEP strategies and plans in alignment with company objectives, while actively embracing Knutson's Zero Incident Safety Culture. This role is responsible for overseeing and directing all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) aspects of construction projects, while ensuring all MEP systems are designed, installed, and commissioned according to contractual specifications, budgets, schedules and required regulations. In this key leadership role, you will deliver high-quality outcomes by applying your technical expertise collaboratively with project team members, while effectively communicating and acting as a liaison for trade partners, project teams, and clients. This leader will deliver The Knutson Experience (TKE), ensuring our owners, design partners, subcontractors, and employees feel Assured, Inspired, and Appreciated.

The key job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Safety Management:

• Champion Knutson's Zero Incident Safety Culture through pre-planning and proactive measures.
• Oversee and help enforce safety standards on MEP construction activities through audits, training and site visits, ensuring a safe working environment for all personnel.
• Ensure all MEP systems adhere to local, state, and national safety codes and standards, such as those set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).
• Participation and completion in scheduled and applicable safety training, as determined by the company.

Design and Planning:

• Collaborate with the design team to ensure MEP systems are integrated effectively with the architectural and structural elements.
• Review and offer guidance on MEP designs and plans.
• Ensure the MEP design team provides accurate specifications and drawings.
• Provide MEP expertise while participating in project pursuits and client interviews.
• Collaborate with the preconstruction team to ensure thorough cost analysis and estimate coordination.
• Utilize technical knowledge to provide creative alternative solutions to design and budget challenges.
• Serve as the subject matter expert to estimating and project management teams on all MEP topics, issues and best practices.
• Oversee the creation of scopes of work for all MEP bid packages and equipment.

Project Leadership and Oversight:

• Lead and provide MEP expertise on construction projects, from design through completion.
• Ensure MEP systems are planned, designed, and executed in compliance with project contracts, local, state, and national building codes, regulations and environmental standards.
• Provide leadership and direction to MEP professionals, designers, contractors, and subcontractors.
• Supervise the construction of all MEP scopes of work, ensuring work is performed in accordance with project schedules and budgets.
• Monitor the progress of MEP work and address any issues related to delays, quality, and compliance.
• Facilitate resolutions on any MEP issues affecting the project.
• Stay updated with current MEP construction practices, industry trends, and regulations to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Effectively plan for and manage risk mitigation through the project life cycle.
• Lead negotiations on MEP-related pricing and change orders with contractors and equipment manufacturers.

Budget and Cost Management:

• Prepare and manage MEP project budgets, ensuring costs are controlled (including estimating costs for materials, labor, and MEP equipment) and projects are completed within financial plans.
• Oversee procurement of materials and MEP subcontractors.
• Monitor material deliveries and ensure equipment meets quality standards and specifications.
• Regularly track and update pricing data base for key market sectors.
• Proactively determine new methods of construction that provides added value at a reduced cost.

Coordination and Communication:

• Coordinate with other project departments to ensure integration of MEP systems with other aspects of construction.
• Serve as the point of contact for all MEP-related issues on the project.
• Maintain regular communication with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and vendors to ensure expectations are met.
• Advise on MEP-related logistics, planning, and procurement of materials and equipment.
• Effectively communicate and partner with various departments to deliver and enhance MEP capabilities across the company, including VDC, self-perform, and the equipment yard.
• Effectively inform leadership and project teams on MEP-related project updates and trends.

Quality Control:

• Ensure that MEP systems meet the highest standards of quality and meet all industry and regulatory compliance standards.
• Participate with project team for critical pre-work meetings and first work inspections.
• Conduct site inspections to ensure work is completed according to design and quality specifications.
• Address any deficiencies or issues promptly to maintain quality standards.

Team Leadership:

• Build and grow organizational MEP capabilities and a collaborative, high-performing team to support MEP services.
• Hire, train, and develop employees to enhance Knutson's MEP capabilities.
• Manage performance and provide coaching to improve team skills and impact.
• Lead and mentor staff supporting MEP deliverables, ensuring effective communication and collaboration among team members.
• Provide strong communication of MEP project requirements, schedules and expectations.
• Investigate and implement innovative MEP technologies and sustainable practices to improve project efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
• Educate and inform other departments (VDC, business development, preconstruction, equipment yard, self-perform) of current and emerging MEP capabilities, innovations and services.
• Establish and grow relationships with capable MEP subcontractors and designers positioning Knutson to deliver on a variety of projects.
• Establish and grow relationships in the AEC industry, representing and positioning Knutson for future work opportunities.

Required knowledge, skills and abilities:

• Possess robust knowledge of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and related regulations and codes.
• Proven track record of leading MEP initiatives on large, complex projects.
• Demonstrate strong risk management and risk mitigation skills.
• Experience in the planning and construction of commercial construction.
• Thorough knowledge of all aspects of construction (technology, equipment, methods), schedule, cost, safety, and quality.
• Experience in effectively leading or organization teams to achieve outcomes.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with excellent organizational and planning skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work in a collaborative team environment.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Able to attend conferences and seminars to maintain licensure for MEP continuing education.
• Ability to travel and visit job sites on a regular basis to effectively oversee MEP-related deliverables.
• The following Professional Certifications/Licenses are recognized as beneficial for this role: LEED, PE License, CEM, PMP, BSI, BICSI, OSHA-30.
• Experience in Knutson's major market sectors of healthcare, education, and science & technology is preferred.
• Minimum Education and/or Experience Requirements: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering; Construction Management or related field. Minimum of 10 years of commercial mechanical / electrical construction, design experience, or project management experience with an MEP focus.

Additional Benefits & Perks:

• Competitive Pay
• Performance Based Career Advancement
• Medical, Dental and Vision
• Health Savings Account with employer contribution
• Flexible Spending Account
• Paid Time Off