Operations Development Manager

Job DetailsJob Location: Conover, NC 28613Position Type: Full TimeThe Role Utili-serve is growing. Our company is expanding, the contracts are getting more complex, and the company needs the internal infrastructure to match. This role exists to build that infrastructure. The Operations Development Manager works directly with the COO to build the systems, programs, and processes that allow Utili-serve to operate at a higher level. This includes quality and safety programs, training and workforce development, technology implementation, and driving key company initiatives from start to finish. This is a builder role. The right person will be handed real projects with real impact and expected to get them done. They will be in the room for important decisions, in the field when the work requires it, and at their desk building the programs that make this company better. Why This Role Matters The COO is responsible for directing operations and overseeing the growth of new lines of business. This work requires direct, hands-on leadership. Some of that work can only be done by the COO. This position picks up everything else and makes sure it gets done right. The person in this role will be vital to how Utili-serve grows over the next several years. The programs they build, the systems they put in place, and the initiatives they see through will shape how this company operates and competes. This is not a support role. It is a growth role. Responsibilities Quality and Safety Review the current state of Utili-serve's quality and safety programs and identify what needs to be built or improved Write and implement a Quality Management System that covers how work is planned, inspected, documented, and turned over to the owner Develop standard Inspection and Test Plans for the major scopes of work Utili-serve performs Build a Health and Safety program that goes beyond OSHA compliance and reflects how a serious contractor operates Improve the Job Hazard Analysis process so it is practical and field crews use it consistently on every job Track safety metrics including TRIR, LTIR, and EMR and report them to leadership on a regular basis Build the quality and safety documentation that supports owner prequalification and EPC contract requirements Training and Workforce Development Build a training program that covers what is expected of craft workers, foremen, superintendents, and project managers Create a new hire onboarding process that sets expectations on quality and safety before anyone steps on a job site Identify gaps in the current workforce's knowledge and skills and build or source training to close them Technology and Software Learn the software and technology tools Utili-serve currently uses and understand how they are being applied in the field and in the office Lead the onboarding and implementation of purchased software platforms across the company, including training staff and driving adoption Identify gaps where current tools are not getting the job done and bring forward recommendations for solutions Help build reporting and tracking systems that give leadership visibility into project costs, safety performance, and operational metrics Initiative Management Take ownership of key company initiatives assigned by the COO and see them through from planning to completion Keep multiple projects moving at the same time without dropping the ball on any of them Communicate progress, roadblocks, and decisions needed, to the COO on a regular basis Work across departments and divisions to get things done without direct authority over everyone involved Attend pre-construction meetings, subcontractor meetings, and short site visits to stay connected to the work and represent the COO when needed QualificationsRequired 10 or more years of experience in construction, quality, operations, or a related field with a track record of increasing responsibility Experience building or significantly improving a quality or safety program in a construction environment Proven ability to manage multiple projects at once and get them across the finish line Strong working knowledge of construction operations including field execution, subcontractor management, and project documentation Experience implementing or rolling out software platforms in a field-based organization Clear written and verbal communication skills — this person writes procedures, reports, and presentations that represent the company Comfortable working at a desk, in a conference room, and on a job site Preferred Background in substation, transmission, power generation, or heavy industrial construction Familiarity with ISO 9001, NQA-1, or similar quality frameworks Experience with Procore or comparable construction management software Experience supporting a senior leader in a chief of staff or operations capacity Degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field — or equivalent experience