Senior Operations Manager

Waterdon Construction Ltd. is a privately owned, Ottawa-based general contractor specializing in ICI construction. Founded in 1983, the company has built a strong reputation for delivering complex and specialized projects across government, commercial, and industrial sectors. Known for taking on challenging builds others avoid, Waterdon combines hands‑on leadership with a collaborative, team‑oriented culture and the strength of in‑house trades to drive quality, efficiency, and control across its projects.

We are currently searching for a Senior Operations Manager to oversee construction operations across multiple projects, provide leadership to Project Managers and field teams, and act as a key operational leader within the organization. This is a newly created role to support the company’s continued growth. Reporting into the VP of Operations, the position includes direct leadership of Project Managers and Supervisors, along with indirect oversight of field staff across active projects. It combines hands‑on execution with strategic oversight, supporting operational excellence, team development, and business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee construction operations across multiple active projects and complex projects, ensuring delivery aligns with schedule, budget, and quality expectations.
• Provide leadership and support to Project Managers and Supervisors, driving performance, consistency, and accountability across teams.
• Act as a key escalation point for project and operational issues, supporting resolution across technical and execution challenges.
• Mentor and develop Project Managers, strengthening team capability and overall project delivery.
• Support planning and coordination of resources across projects, including labour, equipment, and materials.
• Oversee project financial performance, including budgeting, cost control, and forecasting.
• Contribute to improving operational processes and supporting a structured, efficient project environment.
• Support client relationships and help maintain Waterdon’s reputation for delivering complex, high‑quality projects.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, regulations, and company policies.

What You Bring

• Post‑secondary education in construction management, engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in construction project management or operations, including oversight of multiple projects and teams.
• Demonstrated experience leading Project Managers and/or Supervisors within a construction or industrial environment.
• Strong understanding of construction project delivery, including scheduling, budgeting, and contract execution.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, contracts, and specifications and provide guidance on complex project issues.
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities across multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across field teams, office staff, and senior leadership.
• Valid driver’s license.

Nice To Have

• Experience in a senior or multi‑project operational leadership role (e.g., Senior Project Manager, Operations Lead, Director‑level).
• Background in ICI, commercial, or complex construction projects, including government or high‑security work.
• Post‑secondary education in construction management, engineering, or a related field.
• Experience supporting or contributing to estimating, bidding, or business development activities.
• Familiarity with construction management tools such as Autodesk/PlanGrid, QuickBooks Time (TSheets), or similar platforms.
• Health and safety training or certification (e.g., supervisor‑level safety training).

Location

This position is based on‑site at Waterdon’s office in Carp, Ontario, with regular travel to active project sites throughout the greater Ottawa area.

This position offers a base salary in the range of $115,000–$135,000, complemented by a performance‑based bonus structure tied to overall project delivery, operational efficiency, and team performance. This is a leadership role where impact is directly recognized.

In addition, the total compensation package includes:

• Monthly vehicle allowance and gas reimbursement.
• GRSP and Health Spending Account (HSA).
• Flexible vacation entitlement, based on experience.
• Potential for reduced or waived waiting periods on benefits.

Waterdon Construction Ltd. is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and will provide accommodation throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodation at any stage, please let us know.