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 PMs, Assistant PMs, 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 occur 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 the record drawing set for each project
- Review project schedules and consult with the PM and/or Engineer of Record regarding acceptability and changes. Inform the 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 the 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 the 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 the 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 the supervisor for approval and implementation
- Use the 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.
Why WR?
WithersRavenel is looking for people who are passionate about collaboration, community, and client success. Your reward for sharing your talent with us? OWNERSHIP. As a 100% employee-owned company, every employee is an owner—which adds a powerful and unique dimension to our vibrant company culture and purposeful work. Our employee owners say they love a lot of things about WithersRavenel, but the things most often cited are:
- Our amazing people and team-first atmosphere,
- Our focus on the professional development and growth of our staff, and
- Our commitment to the communities in which we work and live.
Learn more about our benefits and employee ownership!
Bring your talent and collaborative spirit and join our team of employee owners at WithersRavenel!
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’s or Bachelor’s degree or related technical certificate
- NCDOT or other specific certifications
- Experience in Microsoft Office applications
- AutoCAD experience
- Bluebeam experience