Job Description

Job Description

Operations Manager – Heavy Industrial Mechanical Construction (Water/Watewater)

📍 Location: Southern California

💰 Compensation: $225K–$250K + performance incentives (up to 30%)

About the Role

We’re conducting a confidential search for a senior Operations Manager to lead Heavy Industrial Mechanical Construction (HIMC) operations across Southern California. This is a high-impact leadership role with full P&L responsibility, overseeing large-scale water/wastewater projects and driving operational excellence, safety culture, and client relationships.

What You’ll Do

• Lead all HIMC operations in Southern California, ensuring profitability and performance.
• Mentor and develop PMs, Engineers, and Superintendents; enforce safety and quality standards.
• Oversee project setup, CPM scheduling, and change management processes.
• Maintain strong client relationships and negotiate subcontract terms.
• Provide strategic input to senior leadership and implement process improvements.

What We’re Looking For

• Education: Bachelor’s in Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Environmental, Chemical), Construction Management, or related field.
• Experience: 15+ years managing water/wastewater construction projects for public agencies.
• Proven success with projects $100M+ and full P&L responsibility.
• Strong background in self-performed work (civil, concrete, piping, mechanical systems).
• Technical Expertise: Water /wastewater treatment facility construction, process piping, mechanical systems, commissioning.
• CPM scheduling (MS Project, Primavera P6) and project management tools (Vista, Procore, PM Web).
• Leadership Skills: Ability to inspire and hold teams accountable; strong communication and client relationship management.
• Other: Valid driver’s license; frequent travel across Southern California.

Preferred: PE, PMP, or DBIA certification; experience with design-build/CMAR; established SoCal agency relationships.

What’s Offered

• Competitive base salary + performance incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits, 401(k), PTO, and company vehicle/car allowance.
• Leadership role with autonomy and career growth opportunities.

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