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Wiss

Director of Construction

Wiss, Trenton, New Jersey, United States

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The Director of Development, Construction is responsible for leading the full lifecycle of real estate development and construction projects—from site evaluation and entitlements through design, permitting, construction, and project closeout. This role serves as the primary liaison with planning boards, municipalities, consultants, and internal stakeholders, ensuring projects are approved, designed, and delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate brings deep experience presenting to planning and zoning boards, reviewing technical drawings, and managing complex development projects.

Key Responsibilities Development & Entitlements

Lead entitlement and approval processes, including zoning, site plan, and special permit approvals

Prepare and deliver presentations to

planning boards, zoning boards, city councils, and public hearings

Coordinate responses to municipal comments and community stakeholder feedback

Manage due diligence activities, including feasibility studies, site constraints, utilities, and environmental reviews

Design & Drawings Oversight

Oversee architectural, civil, structural, and MEP design development

Review and coordinate

construction drawings, site plans, and specifications

for accuracy, constructability, and compliance

Ensure drawings meet local zoning codes, planning board conditions, and building regulations

Manage design consultants and ensure timely delivery of permit and construction sets

Construction Management

Direct construction activities from pre-construction through completion

Manage project budgets, schedules, GMPs, and change orders

Oversee general contractors, subcontractors, and owner’s representatives

Conduct site visits and ensure adherence to safety, quality, and schedule standards

Serve as primary point of contact with municipalities, inspectors, utility providers, and third-party consultants

Collaborate with internal teams including finance, legal, operations, and leasing

Negotiate and manage contracts with architects, engineers, and contractors

Financial & Risk Management

Develop and manage development and construction budgets

Monitor project financial performance and provide executive-level reporting

Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies related to cost, schedule, and approvals

Establish development and construction standards, processes, and best practices

Support long-term development strategy, site selection, and portfolio growth

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Real Estate Development, or related field

10+ years of progressive experience in

real estate development and construction management

Proven experience presenting to

planning boards, zoning boards, and public hearings

Strong ability to interpret and manage

architectural and engineering drawings

Deep knowledge of zoning, permitting, and entitlement processes

Experience managing commercial, industrial, multifamily, or mixed-use developments

Strong contract negotiation and vendor management skills

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in Real Estate Development, Engineering, or related field

Experience with multi-site or multi-state development projects

Background in industrial, logistics, warehouse, or manufacturing facilities

Familiarity with LEED or sustainable building standards

Executive-level communication and presentation skills

Strong project management and organizational abilities

Ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on execution

Confident public speaker with the ability to address boards and community groups

Decisive, detail-oriented, and results-driven

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