Construction Administrator

Construction Administrator – Charlottesville, VA Office
Crabtree Rohrbaugh & Associates

Position Overview:
Crabtree Rohrbaugh & Associates, a leading architectural firm specializing in educational and commercial projects, is seeking a Construction Administrator to join our Charlottesville, VA office. The ideal candidate will bring 10+ years of experience in the field of construction administration, with expertise in managing a range of construction projects varying in size from $5 million to $75 million. This role is critical to the successful execution of projects from design through construction, requiring strong leadership skills, attention to detail, and a client-focused approach.

As a Construction Administrator, you will play a key role in managing construction projects, overseeing project site activities, ensuring adherence to schedules and budgets, and serving as the primary point of contact between the project team, contractors, and clients. You will have the opportunity to work on high-profile projects while fostering strong client relationships and ensuring quality standards are met throughout the construction process.

Key Responsibilities:

• Construction Oversight and Site Management:
• Conduct biweekly field oversight to monitor project progress, quality, safety, and compliance with architectural plans, specifications, and contract requirements.
• Lead and coordinate project site meetings, including pre-construction meetings, progress meetings, and contractor coordination sessions.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all field-related issues, ensuring effective communication between the project team, contractors, and clients.
• Ensure that all contractors and subcontractors adhere to the approved construction schedule, budget, and project scope.
• Client and Contractor Coordination:
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, acting as the client liaison throughout the construction phase to address concerns, provide updates, and ensure satisfaction.
• Work closely with the project manager, architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure seamless coordination and project execution.
• Resolve on-site issues in a timely and efficient manner, making adjustments to project timelines or scope as necessary to ensure project success.
• Oversee and coordinate with contractors on RFIs (Request for Information), change orders, submittals, and other contract-related documentation.
• Quality Control and Compliance:
• Ensure construction work meets the firm’s quality standards and complies with all relevant codes, regulations, and industry best practices.
• Inspect work completed by contractors for compliance with design documents, specifications, and quality requirements.
• Identify potential problems or risks early and implement corrective actions to avoid delays, cost overruns, or safety issues.
• Track and document field conditions, issues, and resolutions, providing detailed reports for internal teams and clients.
• Project Documentation and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date project records, including field reports, change orders, progress reports, punch lists, and project schedules.
• Provide regular construction status reports to the project manager, including updates on schedule, budget, quality control, and any emerging issues.
• Ensure all contract documents are properly executed and stored, and that all project-related correspondence is documented.
• Budget and Schedule Management:
• Assist in managing project budgets, including tracking expenditures, reviewing contractor pay applications, and verifying that costs are within project limits.
• Monitor project timelines to ensure that construction is progressing according to schedule, and work with contractors to address any delays or disruptions.
• Risk Management and Problem-Solving:
• Proactively identify and resolve project-related issues or risks that could impact the success of the project, including delays, conflicts, or quality concerns.
• Serve as the first line of defense in managing potential risks and provide creative, actionable solutions to keep projects on track.

Qualifications:

• 10+ years of experience in construction administration or a similar role, with experience managing large-scale construction projects ranging from $5 million to $75 million.
• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, architecture, engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, project delivery systems, building codes, and regulations.
• Proven experience managing multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring all aspects of construction are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interact with a diverse group of clients, contractors, architects, and consultants.
• Ability to handle conflicting priorities and complex problem-solving in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
• Familiarity with construction management software and tools (e.g., Procore, Prolog, or similar).
• OSHA certification or other relevant safety training is a plus.
• Ability to travel to project sites as needed, with occasional overnight stays.

Desired Attributes:

• Strong client-service orientation with the ability to build and maintain long-term relationships.
• A high level of attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to track multiple tasks and project deliverables.
• Leadership skills to oversee and coordinate with contractors and subcontractors on-site.
• A commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability in construction.
• Strong ability to make decisions on the fly, balancing short-term project goals with long-term vision.