Director of Operations - Critical Infrastructure

Smart Tech Contracting delivers turnkey BAS & EPMS solutions for mission-critical colocation and hyperscale data centers operating at national program scale. As a Master Systems Integrator (MSI), we unify controls construction (DDC, PLC, SCADA) with software engineering, optimized graphics / UI standards, and program-level governance. Complex integrations are delivered cleanly, consistently, and fast. Our teams thrive in high-stakes environments where quality control and uptime matters, schedules are compressed, and coordination is everything. Join us and be part of a team where your voice matters, your work makes an impact, and your growth is a shared priority. This person will communicate and operate in line with organizational goals and values, as well as departmental objectives. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Operational Leadership & Strategy (40%) Define, implement, and oversee operational strategies that align with corporate growth objectives. Drive the adoption and optimization of enterprise project management and ERP tools to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making. Establish operational KPIs and ensure project delivery meets or exceeds quality, schedule, and budget targets. Conduct risk assessments and enforce compliance with all safety, regulatory, and contractual requirements. Financial Oversight & Business Performance (25%) Lead budgeting, forecasting, and profitability analysis for the operations division. Review and approve all major project budgets and change orders. Implement process improvements for financial reporting, tax compliance, and cost control. Partner with accounting and executive leadership to develop accurate, actionable financial dashboards. People & Resource Management (20%) Build and lead a high-performance operations team, providing mentorship, professional development, and clear performance metrics. Oversee workforce planning, recruitment, and succession strategy to meet current and future business needs. Assign and align project managers and technical resources to maximize efficiency and client outcomes. Client, Partner, & Stakeholder Engagement (10%) Serve as the senior point of contact for strategic client accounts, ensuring alignment between client objectives and project execution. Foster partnerships with subcontractors, consultants, and technology providers to maintain competitive pricing and technical innovation. Oversee preconstruction activities, contract negotiations, and vendor agreements. Innovation & Market Growth (5%) Evaluate and adopt emerging technologies, tools, and delivery methods to improve operational performance. Collaborate with business development teams to expand the market presence and service offerings in mission-critical sectors. Completion of Assigned Tasks and Deliverables on Time and on Budget Performs Other Related Duties as Assigned POSITION REQUIREMENTS (ADVANCED LEVEL FOR ALL THE FOLLOWING) Deep knowledge of managing large-scale, high-value projects in critical infrastructure sectors, including hyperscale data centers, utilities, and advanced manufacturing. Expert knowledge of BAS, EPMS, ICT systems, and integrated building technology solutions. Skilled in contract negotiation, risk management, and aligning agreements with organizational goals. Skilled in MS Project, Procore, ERP platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite for project planning and execution. Skilled in effective strategic planning, business growth, and operational efficiency initiatives. Exceptional ability to lead cross-functional teams, mentor talent, and drive organizational performance. Ability to build and sustain executive-level client and partner relationships. Ability to solve complex technical, contractual, and financial challenges while delivering high-value outcomes. Ability to leverage AI and emerging technologies to streamline workflows, optimize operational processes, and contribute to company-wide innovation Ability to work successfully in a remote environment through effective communication and organizational skills, self-motivation, proactiveness and resourcefulness in a distraction free workspace Ability to identify and analyze complex problems, evaluate alternatives and implement effective solutions Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports and correspondence Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form (technical and non-technical information) Ability to communicate effectively directly with clients and at times serve as primary point of client contact Ability to work successfully as a member of a team and independently with little supervision Ability to work under pressure and meet close deadlines Ability to effectively plan and delegate the work of others Organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously PHYSICAL DEMANDS The following physical demands must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is Frequently manipulating, moving or grasping small parts, devices or tools Frequently required to remain in a stationary position Frequently moving through office, critical facility and other environments (such as low temperatures, high temperatures and outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind), including tight and confined spaces Frequently descending / ascending stairs and ladders to access equipment On occasion the employee may be required to position self under or over equipment On occasion the employee may move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds. TRAVEL / RELOCATION REQUIREMENTS Up to 20% travel to other jobsite locations, this may include travel to any of the 50 US states Effective May 7, 2025, and in accordance with U.S. federal regulations for domestic air travel, a valid REAL ID (or an acceptable alternative, such as a passport) is required for travel associated with this position. Travel may involve transportation by car or plane depending on the destination and nature of the business need. Travel is defined as physically leaving home on behalf of business activities including but not limited to client sites, meetings with other employees, meetings for business development purposes, running errands on behalf of the business, attending industry conferences, etc. EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s degree preferred). 13+ years of progressive leadership in construction management, MEP systems, building automation, or mission-critical infrastructure; 5+ years in a senior operations or director role. Proven track record managing large-scale, high-value projects in critical infrastructure markets (e.g., data centers, utilities, advanced manufacturing). BENEFITS Smart Tech Contracting offers a very competitive benefits package; highlights include Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including two PPO-style plans and a HDHP w/ HSA option) Dental and vision plans Comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits extended to spouse / domestic partner and dependent children up to age 26 401k with company match and self-directed brokerage account option PTO including additional paid time off during the last week of the year Company paid life insurance coverage for employees and their eligible dependents Short and long-term disability, AD&D coverage Professional development opportunities, tuition reimbursement and professional licensing assistance Paid parental leave after one year of employment CO, CA, IL, NY, WA, and Washington DC residents only: In accordance with CO, CA, IL, NY, WA, and Washington DC law, the range provided is STC's reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role. The actual amount may differ based on non-discriminatory factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and location. Smart Tech Contracting is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and participates in the E-Verify program with the Department of Homeland Security. We encourage diversity in our workforce. Are you ready to challenge yourself and redefine standards in the AEC industry? Apply now and join our award-winning team! NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES : STC does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to STC in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where STC has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of STC and STC will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation – no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.