Manager of Capital Projects

Manager of Capital Projects

Comox Valley Schools (SD71) is a positive, progressive, and growing school district with the mission to inspire engaged, compassionate, resilient lifelong learners, and cultivate a collaborative community together. As an inclusive learning community, we embrace diversity, foster relationships, and empower all learners to have a positive impact on the world.

We are the largest employer in the Comox Valley with over 1,800 employees providing a comprehensive educational program to approximately 10,500 students from StrongStart to Grade 12: 14 elementary, 2 Community Schools, 3 secondary, 2 alternate schools, and one provincial online learning school. We also host strong educational programs of choice; including: early and late French Immersion, an international student program, robust careers and ADST programing, environmental & outdoor learning, blended learning options, a fine-arts academy, and a Montessori program. In addition, our District presently has eighteen school sites with on-site childcare services operated by independent providers. Our annual operating budget is approximately $120 million.

Under the direction of the Director of Operations, the Manager of Capital Projects is responsible for project planning, implementation, and completion of minor & major capital projects as well as assigned maintenance and facility projects.

We are looking for an approachable and collaborative leader with a background in managing construction projects in the private and/or public sector, possessing a ‘can-do’ & ‘solution-oriented’ attitude. The successful applicant must demonstrate a high standard of professionalism with the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse client group, including educators, contractors, District staff, general public, and regulating authorities. The incumbent must be able to develop, manage, and deliver multiple projects on time and within budget, while exercising fiscal accountability, independent judgement, and risk control. The Manager of Capital Projects must facilitate effective communication and contribute to an approachable, trusting, and inclusive workplace environment.

Responsibilities :

• In coordination with stakeholders and professionals, prepare project priority documents and funding requests.
• As assigned, procure, administer, and manage contracts from initiation through to closing.
• Ensure all necessary permits and approvals from authorities having jurisdiction are obtained.
• Complete regular field reviews and prepare progress reports, ensuring schedule is being met and the contractor’s performance is satisfactory and conforming.
• Review and approve consultant and contractor progress billings. Responsible for directing the change order process, ensuring project stays within the authorized budget.
• Provide up-to-date computerized financial recordkeeping of all funding, expenditures, and commitments.
• Manage contract and the legal dispute process as needed.
• In coordination with District staff and consultants, prepare all documentation required for the Ministry of Education and Child Care.
• As requested, provide updates, reports, and presentations for the District.
• Assist with Maintenance programs, Facility Rentals, asset and energy management, space planning, and Transportation management.
• As needed, the Manager of Capital Projects will provide coverage and support to other members of the Operations’ Management Team.
• As required, the Manager of Capital Projects will be on-call for building and site incidents and emergencies including but not limited to the assessment of roads and school conditions during severe weather events.
• Other related duties as assigned by the Director of Operations.

The successful applicant will possess:

• At least 5-years of experience in large-scale construction and building retrofit projects with experience in design, procurement, and contract management.
• Graduation in engineering, building science, applied science technologist, project management or relevant field with five plus years prior experience with construction projects in the education sector, including experience in project & contract management and procurement.
• PMP or equivalent certification would be an asset.
• Computer literacy using Microsoft Office; proficiency with computers and familiarity with construction and project management software.
• Ability to read and understand drawings and specifications; a working knowledge of AutoCAD and Microsoft Project would be an asset.
• Outstanding communication and negotiation skills; demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills; ability to develop strong cooperative relationships with staff and colleagues.
• Proven ability to respond and communicate in a positive, non-adversarial, and solutions-oriented approach.
• Proven ability to manage large-scale projects within a set budget.
• Team player with the ability to lead by example while demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement.

To Apply:

School District 71 (Comox Valley) is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island on the unceded traditional territory of the K'ómoks First Nation. Located within the Comox Valley is the City of Courtenay, Town of Comox, Village of Cumberland, Regional District, and Denman and Hornby Island; each providing their own unique community, culture, and services. The Comox Valley is a desirable place to live with ocean beaches, fresh-water lakes and rivers, golf, mountain biking, skiing, hiking, swimming, and boating. In addition, the Valley has a strong and vibrant arts and cultural community.

We welcome diverse candidates and encourage members to apply from groups experiencing barriers to equity. As an inclusive learning community, we are committed to actively creating and fostering a culture of inclusivity where voices are heard, people are seen, and values are respected. We care about the uniqueness of our applicants, employees, students, and community, and we do so in a safe space fueled by curiosity and acceptance. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application and hiring process may contact: hr@sd71.bc.ca and we will work with you to meet your needs.

To join our dynamic leadership team in the beautiful Comox Valley, qualified individuals are invited to apply in confidence by submitting a cover letter outlining how they meet the hiring criteria, a chronological resume, and the name and contact information of at least three professional references through “ under section “management/professionals”. The competition will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. The annual salary range for this position is $100,007 to $125,009.

The school district will work with the successful candidate to determine a start date and to facilitate a smooth transition into the role.

Applications received prior to 1:00 PM (Pacific Time) on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 will be assured careful consideration.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Successful applicants will be subject to the terms of the Criminal Review Act.

Thank-you for your interest in School District 71 (Comox Valley)

An Equal Opportunity Employer