Construction Observer

As a Construction Observer at Kimley-Horn in Deerfield, your responsibilities will span across design, bidding, and construction phases. You'll perform constructability reviews during the design phase, oversee bid scheduling and coordination during the bidding phase, and ultimately manage contractor schedules and perform inspections in the construction phase. Your role is critical in ensuring projects are completed successfully and to client specifications.

To qualify for the Construction Observer position at Kimley-Horn, you'll need a minimum of 5 years of Construction Management experience, and a High School Diploma or equivalent. Strong communication skills, a proactive work ethic, and attention to detail are also essential to thrive in this dynamic role.

While the Construction Observer position at Kimley-Horn requires substantial experience in Construction Management, having a background in civil engineering projects will be highly beneficial. Familiarity with technical aspects of construction and the ability to address challenges effectively will enhance your contributions to the team.

Kimley-Horn offers an outstanding array of benefits to Construction Observers, including an exceptional retirement plan with a 2-to-1 company match, comprehensive health coverage, and time-off flexibility such as half-day Fridays. Additional perks include tuition reimbursement for professional development and family-friendly benefits to support new parents.

The workplace culture at Kimley-Horn is centered around its employees and clients. As a Construction Observer, you will be part of a supportive and proactive team, in an environment that prioritizes collaboration, growth, and mutual success. The company prides itself on being ranked among the '100 Best Companies to Work' for 17 years, reflecting a strong commitment to employee satisfaction and development.

Effective communication is key in the role of a Construction Observer. I ensure clear and regular updates through structured meetings and written reports. It's essential to establish a rapport with contractors and provide them with concise, actionable feedback to aid in project success.

In my previous roles, I have conducted thorough constructability reviews by analyzing designs and identifying potential issues that might arise during construction. This process helps in refining project plans and ensuring seamless execution, which is essential for effective project management.

When conflicts arise, I prioritize open communication to understand all viewpoints. I work collaboratively with contractors and the project team to reach a resolution, keeping the best interest of the project in mind while maintaining professionalism and transparency.

For inspections, I utilize both checklists and photographic documentation to ensure all aspects of the construction meet project specifications. Regular site visits and progress reports are critical for capturing accurate data and facilitating communication among team members.

I emphasize proactive planning by developing a detailed project schedule early in the process. By regularly reviewing progress against this schedule and addressing potential delays promptly, I help keep projects on track and within budget.

In a challenging project involving unexpected weather delays, I adapted by rearranging the construction schedule to maximize productivity on clear days. Effective communication with the team allowed us to minimize downtime and stay aligned with project goals.

Safety is paramount in construction. I ensure that all safety protocols are strictly followed by conducting regular safety audits and encouraging team members to report any issues. Creating a culture of safety helps to protect all personnel and keeps projects running smoothly.

I maintain my industry knowledge by attending workshops, reading relevant literature, and engaging with professional organizations. Staying informed about new technologies and methods is crucial for success and can provide innovative solutions to project-related challenges.

I have extensive experience managing change orders by carefully evaluating their impact on the project timeline and budget. I collaborate with project stakeholders to gather necessary approvals, ensuring that all modifications align with project objectives while minimizing disruption.

I am drawn to Kimley-Horn because of its commitment to excellence and employee well-being. The opportunity to work on diverse projects alongside a talented team aligns perfectly with my career aspirations, where I can leverage my skills to contribute to meaningful outcomes.