Utilities Construction Manager

Utilities Construction Manager

Charleston, SC

Full Time, Permanent & Onsite

Job Description

The Utilities Area Manager is responsible for the overall performance, leadership, and strategic direction of the Utilities Department involving water, sewer, and storm drain operations.

Role and Responsibilities

This role has full accountability for safety, quality, productivity, staffing, equipment utilization, and financial results of utilities operations. The Utilities Area Manager leads multiple levels of utilities management and serves as the primary point of ownership for the department’s success. This position partners closely with executive leadership, project management, estimating, equipment, and safety to ensure utilities operations support company objectives and long-term growth. Provide executive-level leadership and direction for all Utilities Department operations.

Maintain full accountability for departmental performance including safety, quality, production, utilization, and profitability.

Lead, develop, and hold accountable the Utilities Management team across all levels.

Establish clear expectations, standards, and performance metrics for utilities operations.

Develop and execute departmental plans aligned with company revenue, backlog, and growth objectives.

Forecast manpower, equipment, and workload requirements to support current and future projects.

Ensure utilities projects are executed in alignment with approved budgets, schedules, and contractual requirements.

Review operational and financial performance data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, cost control, quality, and safety.

Proactively identify operational challenges and implement corrective strategies before issues impact results.

Partner with Project Managers and Estimators during bid reviews to validate scope, production assumptions, and execution strategies.

Support long-range planning and backlog management for the Utilities Department.

Ensure consistent application of company standards, policies, and procedures across all utilities operations.

Champion a culture of safety, accountability, professionalism, and ownership throughout the department.

Ensure compliance with all safe digging practices, trench safety standards, and regulatory requirements.

Oversee quality control processes to ensure work is delivered at the highest standard and free from error.

Coordinate resources and priorities with internal departments including Equipment, Trucking, Survey, Concrete, Asphalt, and Safety.

Represent the Utilities Department in executive, operational, and strategic planning meetings.

Maintain professional relationships with inspectors, customers, engineers, and internal stakeholders.

Serve as a leader and role model aligned with Construction Company’s core values.

Perform any other duties consistent with the responsibilities of a department-level management role.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Progressive utility construction experience, including senior field or operations management roles.

Demonstrated success leading departments, business units, or multi-project operations.

Strong understanding of utility construction means and methods, production planning, cost control, and equipment utilization regarding installation of water, sewer and storm drain on our sites.

Proven ability to analyze operational and financial data and drive performance improvements.

Demonstrated leadership presence with the ability to influence, develop, and hold teams accountable.

High school diploma required; bachelor’s degree preferred.

Strong communication, organizational, and decision-making skills.

Ability to read, understand, and implement construction drawings, specifications, and schedules.

Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record per SBCC policy.

Must meet SBCC employment standards with regards to background checks and drug testing.

Based on duties, may be required to obtain DOT medical certification.

Flexible availability to meet business and project demands, including nights and weekends as required.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

Ability to work in varying jobsite and environmental conditions.

Ability to tolerate exposure to dust, dirt, loud noise, rain, and extreme temperatures.

Ability to stand, walk, crawl, kneel, and perform physical tasks for extended periods as required.

Ability to exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 40 pounds of force regularly.

Preferred Skills

Experience managing a construction department or business unit

Strong financial and operational acumen

Strategic planning and forecasting capabilities

Proven ability to lead change and scale operations

Strong alignment with safety-first and quality-driven cultures

Benefits: Provides employees with outstanding benefits which include: Medical, Vision, Dental, Vacation & Holiday Pay, 401K, and potential financial incentives through Profit Sharing and Bonuses.

Thanks & Regards,

Saiyed R (Daniel)

Executive Recruiter

Brightpath Associates LLC