Construction Project Manager

at  Volkswagen Group Canada

WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR A CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGER – INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS BASED OUT OF ST. THOMAS, ON

Our mission has started. Volkswagen Group’s largest cell factory in St. Thomas will carry out all battery activities – from processing raw materials to developing a unified Volkswagen battery to managing the European and North American gigafactories. Headquartered in Salzgitter, Germany, we are experiencing the transformation of mobility up close. Our goal is to contribute a positive impact to our global society, the environment, and the economy. To reach these goals we need your POWER!
PowerCo Canada Inc. is seeking a skilled Construction Project Manager, Industrial Buildings to join our team for the battery cell production facility in St. Thomas. In this role, you will be responsible for ensuring the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest safety standards. You will be tasked with managing construction costs, ensuring that all financial targets are met, and implementing cost-control measures to prevent overruns. Additionally, you will enforce comprehensive safety protocols across the construction site working closely with HSE department, ensuring that all activities comply with industry regulations and best practices. This role involves coordinating a multidisciplinary team, client representatives and external service providers and contractors.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in civil engineering, architecture, electrical or HVAC background or similar education
• 10+ years of experience in leading major projects
• Deep knowledge of construction processes, scheduling, quality control and safety coordination
• Experience in participating in projects and technical topics.
• Experience in construction contract law is an asset.
• Experience in LEAN Construction Management is an asset.
• Experience in initial phase of a battery cell production plant would be considered an asset.
• Ability to travel both within Canada/US and internationally up to ~ 30%.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead external project construction and design companies and provide onsite supervision.
• Oversee the coordination of construction site activities, processes, safety, and quality assurance.
• Coordinate the team of Lot Construction Engineers.
• Understand the challenges associated with constructing a battery cell manufacturing facility and manage complex technical requirements and stringent safety standards.
• Provide detailed progress updates, including technical aspects such as cleanroom validation, equipment installation, and safety compliance.
• Address conflicts promptly, especially those involving the integration of complex systems or changes in technical specifications.
• Conduct frequent inspections to ensure all construction work meets the high standards required for battery manufacturing.
• Manage project costs effectively, oversee time management and handle risk management responsibilities.
• Collaborate closely with Health and Safety teams to ensure the highest standards on site, conducting regular safety audits and drills.
• Work closely with architects, engineers, and other design professionals to ensure construction plans align with project specifications and objectives.
• Oversee the procurement process for construction materials, equipment, and subcontractor services, ensuring all resources meet project specifications and quality standards.
• Develop and maintain a detailed project schedule, tracking progress against key milestones and provide regular reports
• Identify potential delays and implement strategies to keep the project on track, adjusting plans as necessary.
• Ensure all parties fulfill their contractual obligations and document any changes.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between the project team and key stakeholders, including company executives, clients, and regulatory bodies.