Director Of Operations

Sutherland Heavy Civil is seeking an experienced Director of Operations to provide operational leadership across our civil construction, earthworks, mining, and infrastructure projects. Reporting to the VP, Operations, this role is responsible for driving execution, improving systems and processes, supporting project performance, and building high-performing teams. The ideal candidate brings significant contractor-side experience managing large-scale projects and has a proven track record of operational excellence, process improvement, and organizational growth.
Location & TravelThis role is semi-remote with frequent travel to West Kootenays, West Kelowna and project sites.
Why Join Sutherland Heavy Civil?
Meaningful work on civil construction, mining, and infrastructure projects
Competitive pay, comprehensive rewards and benefits
Quality equipment, resources, and support to help you perform at your best
Opportunities to build a long-term career, not just a job
A team-first culture built on safety, respect, and accountability
Local roots and proud supporters of the communities where we live and work
Compensation RangeStarting at $180,000 (negotiable) plus bonus
The starting salary within this range will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, leadership background, and overall alignment with the requirements of the role. Additional premiums, allowances, and benefits may apply.
ResponsibilitiesOperational Leadership
Execute strategic priorities established by the VP, Operations.
Lead operational planning, forecasting, resource allocation, and performance management.
Ensure consistency and accountability across projects, regions, and business units.
Support project teams in achieving operational, financial, safety, and client objectives.
Process Improvement & Systems Development
Evaluate operational workflows and identify opportunities for improvement.
Implement scalable systems, processes, and reporting structures.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality, safety, and profitability.
Champion technology adoption and operational best practices.
Project Performance
Monitor project execution against schedule, budget, quality, and safety targets.
Develop key performance metrics, dashboards, and reporting frameworks.
Identify risks proactively and implement corrective actions.
Support project teams in overcoming operational challenges and constraints.
Leadership & Team Development
Mentor, coach, and develop operational leaders.
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Lead organizational change initiatives and operational transformation efforts.
Establish clear performance expectations and development plans.
Strategic Integration
Serve as the primary operational liaison between leadership and field operations.
Support growth initiatives, acquisitions, and expansion opportunities.
Provide data-driven insights and recommendations to senior leadership.
Ensure company priorities and strategic objectives are consistently executed.
Requirements
10+ years of progressive civil-operations leadership experience, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
Extensive experience overseeing large-scale heavy civil, earthworks, mining, infrastructure, or industrial projects.
Proven success managing multiple projects, teams, and operating locations simultaneously.
Strong contractor-side experience with a solid understanding of project execution, resource planning, and operational performance.
Demonstrated ability to implement systems, processes, reporting structures, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Experience leading organizational growth, change management, and operational transformation.
Contract management and commercial/project financial management experience is highly preferred.
Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel regularly to support remote and field-based operations throughout Western Canada.
Post-secondary education in Business, Engineering, Construction Management, Operations Management, or a related field, as well as PMP, Lean Six Sigma, Gold Seal, or similar certifications are considered an asset.
Candidates located in the West Kootenays, or those open to relocating to the region, are strongly preferred. We remain open to considering exceptional candidates from other locations.
Benefits & Total Rewards
Extended health, dental and vision
Life and travel insurance coverages
Comprehensive wellness and paramedical support
Employee assistance program
Generous pension matching
Referral bonus opportunities
Company vehicle with fuel card provided
About Sutherland Heavy CivilSutherland Heavy Civil is a broad-based forestry services provider with a strong focus on environmentally responsible and sustainable practices. For over 15 years, Sutherland Heavy Civil has delivered mobile large-scale chipping and grinding, forestry consulting, screening, road building and maintenance, and equipment rental services across British Columbia and Alberta.
About Sutherland GroupThe Sutherland Group is a family of companies operating across transportation, construction, forestry, environmental, mining, marine, and industrial services. For 30 years, we have invested in our people, supported career growth, and delivered exceptional work for our customers and communities.
Join the TeamReady to build your career with a team that lives its values every day? We seek people who are Curious & Adaptable, Trustworthy, Humbly Confident, Better Together, and ready to Make It Happen. We'd love to hear from you.
Different perspectives build better teams.
The Sutherland Group of Companies is an equal employment opportunity employer. We are committed to hiring a diverse workforce and ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace. We encourage applications from any protected basis such as persons with disabilities, women, LGBTQ2S+ persons, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America and any other basis under applicable law.
#SGHP
#J-18808-Ljbffr