Operations Manager

Merit Ontario is a construction association supporting small to large construction companies with workforce needs across Ontario. Our talent specialists provide recruitment services and customized solutions to find quality candidates.The RoleOur member is hiring an Operations Manager to support and streamline project delivery through strong coordination, scheduling, and internal systems, in Kitchener, ON. This role is central to ensuring projects run smoothly behind the scenes — supporting project managers, coordinating with vendors, tracking critical project milestones, and ensuring the entire team has access to up-to-date information and documentation. This is not a field-based role but a key part of the project delivery process.Key ResponsibilitiesBuild and maintain live project schedules in Microsoft ProjectCoordinate labour planning and manpower allocation across projectsTrack and communicate critical milestone dates (e.g. delivery deadlines, inspection dates, rough-in targets)Maintain a rolling 2-4 week lookahead for scheduling and labour requirementsMaintain a centralized folder structure for all active projectsEnsure the most current shop drawings are uploaded, shared, and clearly version-controlledTrack drawing submissions and approvals in coordination with PMs and vendorsOrganize and maintain submittals, RFIs, and change order documentation in a shared systemBuild and update job budgets in collaboration with project managersMaintain budget vs. actual trackers for labour, material, and equipmentTrack committed costs and support change order loggingAssist in compiling final job costing packages and post-project reviewsMaintain live lead-time trackers and support procurement of long-lead itemsCoordinate with PMs and wholesalers for proactive ordering and delivery timelinesTrack PO statuses and flag critical delivery risksAssist in building and reviewing Schedule of Values (SOVs)Align invoicing with job progress and billing cyclesCollaborate with finance and PMs to ensure timely, accurate billing and documentationMaintain and improve standardized templates, folders, and workflowsParticipate in weekly meetings: Scheduling, Procurement, Finance, Leadership SyncHelp implement systems that reduce chaos, save time, and support field executionTools & Software UsedMicrosoft Project - for Gantt scheduling and labour forecastingGoogle Sheets / Docs - for budgets, trackers, submittals, and planning documentsQuickBooks - for job cost visibility and invoice coordinationQualifications3-5+ years in project coordination, construction operations, or administrative supportStrong background in organizing schedules, documentation, and project informationFamiliarity with mechanical scopes (plumbing/HVAC) is not required, but considered an assetExcellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple live projectsComfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with hands-on involvement in day-to-day systemsCompensation & BenefitsCompetitive salary based on experienceHealth and dental benefitsPaid vacation and statutory holidaysOpportunity to grow into a senior operations or project leadership roleWhat Success Looks LikeProject schedules are live, realistic, and coordinated with field teamsShop drawings are always current and accessible to those who need themMaterial procurement is on time and tied to project milestonesJob costs and budgets are tracked in real timeInvoicing is accurate and aligned with SOVs and field progressOffice and field operate with shared information and clear expectationsPlease note, only qualified candidates will be contacted.