Director of Construction Administration - Architecture

DIRECTOR OF CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION - Architecture

SHP is a dynamic team of architects, designers and engineers who maximize the utility, beauty and wonder of space. We apply a multidisciplinary approach of expertise and passion to create lasting environments that help people engage in better human experiences, encouraging people to thrive, dream, create, learn and grow. SHP (shp.com) is seeking an exceptional individual to join our firm as Director of Construction Administration.

Role Overview

The Director of Construction Administration leads the firm's construction phase services, ensuring excellence in execution, process standardization, and team development. This role is responsible for overseeing construction administration operations, fostering strong industry relationships, and driving continuous improvement in project delivery. Reporting to the Director of Architecture, the Director of Construction Administration serves as a strategic leader, mentor, and problem-solver, collaborating across disciplines to enhance the firm's construction service offerings.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing Construction Services team of eight managers, field reps and administrators, fostering a culture of accountability and professional growth.

• Define and communicate the role of Construction Administration (CA) in achieving project success.

• Conduct regular check-ins with team members, providing guidance, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities.

• Coach and develop team members to become best-in-class stewards of SHP in all interactions with clients, GC's and other partners.

• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives, related to CA processes and procedures.

Project & Process Management

• Standardize and optimize construction phase processes in collaboration with internal teams.

• Monitor workload distribution and forecast future staffing needs to ensure project demands are met.

• Establish clear methods for tracking accountability and performance in construction administration.

• Actively participate in firmwide quality review processes to ensure design documentation is complete and well-coordinated.

• Diligent use of Procore for consistency in documentation and QA

• Manage contingency funds and project budgets during construction.

• Review change orders and contract pay applications.

• Assure quality construction on time, and within budget.

• Time will be spent developing and managing teams roughly 50% of the time, and managing jobs roughly 50% of the time; two days in the office and three days in the field should be expected

Industry & Client Relations

• Serve as the primary liaison for construction-related issues, working closely with contractors, owners, and project teams to resolve challenges efficiently.

• Elevate the visibility and impact of Construction Services within the firm, ensuring its value is recognized across all disciplines.

• Participate in client interviews, anticipating and solving for potential issues before they occur.

• Represent the firm professionally in all interactions, upholding industry best practices and compliance standards.

• Listen and be aware of cues in client conversations, helping to connect the dots to provide exceptional service, address issues before they escalate, and insight opportunities that may be coming over the horizon.

• Ensure optimal team performance and customer experience, keeping clients satisfied and coming back, and positioning SHP to reach our goal of being a nationally recognized firm for learning and community centers.

Core Skills & Competencies

Technical & Industry Expertise

• Deep understanding of project delivery models, contracts, specifications, and construction administration best practices.

• Ability to assess and resolve construction-related challenges with a proactive, solution-driven approach.

• Familiarity with regulatory compliance, risk management, and quality control processes.

Leadership & Team Management

• Proven ability to lead, develop, and manage a multidisciplinary team.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and disciplines.

• Experience in workload forecasting, resource allocation, and operational efficiency improvements.

• Most work will be local or regional to the Tri-State area; monthly trips to our Columbus, Ohio office, and quarterly trips to our Greensboro, NC office, may be expected in order to foster relationships with those teams.

Problem-Solving & Decision-Making

• Skilled in conflict resolution and navigating complex construction challenges.

• Ability to proactively identify areas for process improvement and implement strategic initiatives.

• Demonstrates sound judgment and the ability to make high-impact decisions under pressure.

Qualifications & Experience

• Extensive experience (typically 10 years) in architecture, construction administration, construction management, or a related field within the AEC industry.

• Demonstrated success in managing teams, optimizing processes, and enhancing construction service operations.

• Experience working within a project management software platform preferred.

• Professional licensure (AIA, PE, CCM) preferred but not required.

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field preferred.

Why SHP?

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus.

• Excellent benefits package, including health, dental, vision, 401(k), and generous PTO.

• A supportive culture that accommodates work/life balance and prioritizes relationships and team collaboration.

• Over 124 years of purpose-driven work focused on designing spaces that improve lives.

• SHP is an equal opportunity employer.

• We love it here, and we think you would, too!

If you're ready to grow your construction administration career in a dynamic and design-forward environment, submit your resume and cover letter via our Careers Page. We look forward to connecting with you!