Division Director, Projects and Infrastructure Modernization

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is seeking a visionary, senior-level Director to lead the Projects and Infrastructure Modernization Division in the Laboratory’s Operations Directorate. In this role, you'll be at the forefront of cutting-edge major capital projects, from constructing state-of-the-art research laboratories and data centers to enhancing critical infrastructure. 

 

With full line management and operational responsibility, the Division Director is accountable for leading a large multi-disciplinary team charged with civil construction project management activities at the Laboratory, which include all phases of construction from design, initiation, planning, risk management, construction, and transition to operations. Projects range from civil construction, demolition, remediation, renovation, new facilities and infrastructure projects. Leadership responsibilities and accountabilities include a clear focus on the successful execution of the Projects and Infrastructure Modernization Division’s $2-billion construction and research project portfolio according to scope, schedule, budget, quality, safety, efficiency, and meeting customer and stakeholder expectations. This position serves as the intellectual leader for the provision of project execution and services, and partners closely with senior Laboratory leadership to execute the projects to meet Berkeley Lab’s mission. As a key member of the Laboratory Operations Leadership Team, the Division Director is expected to actively support Lab-wide initiatives, especially our responsible stewardship of Berkeley Lab’s research, people and assets, and promote a diverse and welcoming culture at the Lab. Learn more about the Division here .

 

This is an exciting career opportunity for a senior leader to make substantial contributions that advance Berkeley Lab’s fundamental mission of providing world-class science, forging important internal and external partnerships, and pursuing best management practices to meet Laboratory performance goals. Come be a part of something extraordinary at Berkeley Lab!

 

What You Will Do:

• Provide strategic leadership and operational line management direction to ensure successful completion of more than $200 million of annual infrastructure, construction, and facility improvement projects under the purview of the Projects and Infrastructure Modernization Division. 
• Serve as a key member of the Operations Area leadership team, managing with a high degree of independence, responsibility, and accountability for all areas within the Division, including construction, project management and execution.
• Provide effective operational discipline and continuous project improvement to efficiently deliver outstanding project performance as measured by scope execution, schedule and cost performance, safety, quality, and stakeholder engagement. 
• Proactively partner, develop, and maintain effective working relationships and collaborations with fellow Operations leaders, the Laboratory Infrastructure Planning Officer, leadership across the Laboratory, and with the University of California’s National Laboratory Office, the Department of Energy (DOE) Berkeley Site Office, and the Strategic Laboratory Infrastructure Office in DOE Office of Science Headquarters. 
• Ensure excellence through focus on on-site and field presence, safety and quality of work activities, use and reporting of performance metrics, and fact-based decision making.
• Manage Division resources, including the administration of nearly 70 employees and an annual budget, to ensure maximum effectiveness and quality of service delivered. Cultivate an inclusive culture that emphasizes collaboration, continuous improvement, and commitment to excellence and accountability.
• Ensure the effectiveness and capabilities of Projects and Infrastructure Management Division staff matrixed between divisions, including estimating and specialized project management expertise.
• Ensure that short- and long-term requirements for projects are aligned with Laboratory strategic goals and objectives and the Division actively supports  integration with the Laboratory's scientific/technical research programs.
• Accountable for effectively planning, executing, and controlling an annual capital budget spend in excess of $200 million against established schedules to achieve committed performance targets. 
• Model leadership behaviors of respect, inclusiveness, integrity, opportunity equity, customer service and accountability to Division staff, and demonstrate responsiveness, cooperation, consistent problem solving and positive leadership behavior when representing the Division with internal and external stakeholders, vendors, and DOE Berkeley Site Office.
• Address management challenges and tightening resources to achieve optimally effective and efficient staffing; guide strategies for hiring, retaining and developing diverse staff.
• Understand and manage the governing Federal, Regulatory, State and LBNL/UC contractual requirements. 

 

What is Required:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, project management or related discipline, and 15+ years of progressively accountable experience in leading complex organizations; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated successful experience managing a large and complex project management organization, directing large, complex construction projects to successful outcomes, championing a safety culture of accountability, and leading culture change with improved performance as a measured outcome.
• Successful senior-level leadership experience, including demonstrated experience with – and commitment to the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accountability – in hiring, coaching, mentoring, and employee career development.
• Ability to interact at the highest level of management, both internally and externally, in a constructive, collaborative and positive manner and in a way that represents the best interests of the Laboratory.
• Ability to directly and effectively communicate with engineers and architects regarding campus utility systems and the operation, maintenance, design and construction of the various building types that are present on the Berkeley Lab campus.
• Diverse knowledge of various project execution and support areas, including project controls, estimating, design, safety, commissioning, project finance, engineering, risk management, project documentation, quality assurance, and construction management. 
• Demonstrated record of effectively managing operational risk through discipline by integrating safety and process into work planning, execution, financial and personnel management, field oversight, and acquisition and contractor management.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills to effectively influence, negotiate, advise, explain and present to senior technical and administrative managers.
• Superior interpersonal skills to effectively build/maintain positive working partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.

 

Desired Qualifications:

• Advanced / Masters degree.
• Experience working for DOE or Federal agencies on government-funded construction projects (e.g., government owned contractor operated model).
• Professional civil engineering license or licensed architect in California.
• Project Management Professional certification.

 

Application Guidelines:

• For full consideration, please submit your resume and cover letter by July 10, 2024.
• The cover letter should highlight your interest in the role, relevant project and leadership experience (including team size and scope), as well as contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

 

Notes:

• This is a full-time career appointment, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
• This position is expected to pay $340,000 to $395,000, which fits within the full salary range of $224,292 to $448,380 for the Operations Division Director job classification. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the full range for a position. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualifications and experience (including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications), as well as aligned with the internal leadership peer group.
• The Projects and Infrastructure Modernization Division Director is a career position that is appointed by and serves at the discretion of the Laboratory Director, and this appointment is at will and may be terminated at any time with or without cause.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• This position is subject to the financial disclosure requirements of the California Political Reform Act of 1974. The successful candidate for this position will be required to file financial interest statements upon assuming this position, annually while holding this position, and when leaving this position.
• Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.

 

Learn About Us:

Berkeley Lab is a U.S. Department of Energy national laboratory managed by the University of California and designated a Federally Funded Research and Development Center. Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, we have a close relationship with UC Berkeley, as well as robust partnerships with other academic institutions and industries, including those in Silicon Valley. The Laboratory conducts world-class research that supports clean energy, a healthy planet, and solution-inspired discovery science. Berkeley Lab is defined by our deeply felt sense of stewardship , which we describe as a commitment to taking care of the Laboratory's research, people, and resources that are entrusted to us. Our values of team science, innovation, service, trust, and respect knit us together as a community. We practice these values and prioritize our principles of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability (IDEA ) to build highly effective teams that produce world-class science and technology and where all individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, disciplines, and experiences, can thrive.

 

Working at Berkeley Lab has many rewards including a competitive compensation program, excellent health and welfare programs, a retirement program that is second to none, and outstanding development opportunities. To view information about the many rewards that are offered at Berkeley Lab- Click Here .

 

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab’s mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. 

 

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links: Know your rights, click here for the supplement: "Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law" and the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.40.