The Construction Observer II is a mid-level role within our Construction Administration practice area, responsible for on-site observation of horizontal construction activities. The primary focus of this role is to ensure that construction work aligns with the approved project plans and specifications. Responsibilities include observing, documenting, and communicating construction-related information and issues, as well as compiling and analyzing technical data from drawings, field notes, and electronic sources.
Project and Client Management
- Assist PM’s, Assistant PM’s, and Engineers of Record in the project construction and Certification process
- Coordinate and attend project meetings and create subsequent documentation
- Assist in communications with Clients per direction
- Communicate with PM’s, Assistant PM’s, and/or Engineers of Record assigned to associated projects regularly and proactively about project and technical details; communicate any significant technical challenge, deviation from procedures and metrics, or incidents that occurs on projects
- Understand project scope and budget and assist in monitoring
Technical
- Understand horizontal construction and surveying for the following: utilities, drainage, drainage structures, SCMs, roadways, greenways, sidewalks, lighting, parking lots, traffic control, signing, striping, traffic calming, and landscaping
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of utility networks, including water, sewer, gas, electric, and telecommunication systems
- Understand, coordinate, and document geotechnical testing as directed
- Perform shop drawing reviews
- Read construction plans and specifications, interpret documents, and perform simple mathematical calculations
- Able to perform field revisions and obtain necessary approvals from the Engineer of Record and inform PM and/or Assistant PM
- Observe and verify that construction methods are generally in accordance with plans and specifications
- Verify that material and equipment certificates, operation and maintenance manuals, and other data required by the specifications have been provided
- Perform limited surveying/measuring to verify/confirm horizontal locations and/or vertical elevations
- Red-line construction changes on record drawing set for each project
- Review project schedules and consult with the PM and/or Engineer of Record regarding acceptability and changes. Inform client as directed
- Receive and review applications for payment and forward recommendations to the PM and/or Assistant PM
- Draft and recommend to the PM, Assistant PM, and/or Engineer of Record proposed change orders, work change directives, and field orders
- Coordinate, document, and attend substantial and final completion inspections
- Provide punch lists and subsequent follow up
- Attend project start-ups and operation and maintenance training as directed
- Document and facilitate information to supervisor, PM, Engineer of Record, and/or Client including site photos, documenting quantities, and providing daily logs
- Report discrepancies from the plans and specifications immediately to supervisor, PM, Engineer of Record, and/or Client and recommend corrective measures and/or rejection of work
- Receive contractor RFI’s and review with PM, Assistant PM, and/or Engineer of Record as necessary
- Understand technical, municipal, and State requirements for projects
- Follow technical aspects and policies of the Department and Company
- Analyze technical problems; devise new or improved techniques, approaches, and alternative solutions; and communicate those to supervisor for approval and implementation
- Use company’s current technology as much as practicable to document and communicate
Client and Business Development
- Participate in civic and community events
- Seek opportunities for cross-selling to enhance and expand our existing client relationships
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the position. All employees may have other duties assigned at any time.
Requirements
- 5 (+) years of construction, engineering, surveying, and/or related work experience
- High School Diploma
- Self-motivated, engaged, team-oriented, and work with limited supervision
- Handle multiple tasks under pressure and prioritize responsibilities
- Good organizational and communication skills
- Attention to detail and willingness to learn
- Willingness to take direction
- Demonstrate personal investment in your career
- Energetic, flexible, and forward thinking
- Valid driver’s license with the ability to successfully pass a MVR records check
Preferred qualifications:
- Associate or Bachelor’s degree or related technical certificate
- NCDOT or other specific certifications
- Experience in Microsoft Office applications
- AutoCAD experience
- Bluebeam experience
In Office Work
The assignment may occasionally require repetitive physical tasks (such as operating a computer), standing and/or sitting for extended periods of time, and carrying equipment and materials up to 50 pounds.
Field Work
The position requires the ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions to complete fieldwork. Candidates must be comfortable with extended periods of travel in a vehicle and possess the physical stamina to perform manual tasks such as lifting, digging, and standing for long durations. The ability to regularly lift up to 50 pounds is also required.
WithersRavenel is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, military service, or other non-merit factors protected by federal, state, or local laws. At WithersRavenel, we strive to build and nurture a culture where diversity, inclusivity, and belonging are a normal part of doing business, not an initiative. We know through experience that different ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds create a stronger and more creative work environment that delivers better results. By hiring highly talented people who align with our Core Values, we continue to enrich and broaden our ownership community, as well as the employee and client experience. This purposeful approach to diversity and inclusion leads to greater commitment, collaboration, and effectiveness in our culture, work, and lives.