Operations Manager (Civil Engineering / Infrastructure)
Location: Portlaoise, Co. Laois
Salary: €115,000–€135,000+ (DOE)
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits: Company car, 5% pension, healthcare, EAP, career progression, professional development support
About the Role
We are recruiting an Operations Manager for a leading Irish civil engineering and infrastructure contractor delivering large-scale projects nationwide (roads, utilities, groundworks, commercial and residential developments, public realm).
This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for operational delivery across Ireland. You will oversee project performance, resource management, safety, programme, and commercial outcomes.
This role is ideal for someone with a heavy civils background who has already managed multiple live projects and teams at senior level.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage the operational delivery of all live projects, ensuring programme, budget, quality, and safety targets are met.
* Provide strategic direction to Project Managers, Site Managers, Engineers, and site teams.
* Oversee resource planning, labour and plant allocation, supply chain management, and subcontractor performance.
* Ensure all works are completed in line with Irish health, safety, environmental, and quality standards (HSA, ISO, CIF requirements).
* Drive performance in programme management, risk management, reporting, and continuous improvement.
* Work closely with the commercial team on tendering, programme buildability, contract management (Public Works Contracts / NEC), variations, and forecasting.
* Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, local authorities, and key stakeholders to ensure repeat business and protect reputation.
* Report operational performance, key risks, and progress updates to senior leadership.
What We’re Looking For
* Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
* Chartered Engineer (CEng) status with Engineers Ireland is desirable.
* 10+ years’ experience in civil engineering / infrastructure / construction.
* At least 5 years’ experience in a senior operations / contracts / delivery role in Ireland.
* Proven track record delivering heavy civil works (roads, utilities, drainage, groundworks, enabling works, public realm).
* Strong understanding of Irish regulatory standards, Public Works Contracts, NEC contracts, and local authority requirements.
* Strong leadership capability: able to manage multiple project teams and drive performance across several sites at once.
* Commercial awareness: comfortable with budgets, cost control, resourcing, procurement, and programme risk.
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
* Strong focus on health & safety, quality, and delivery.
Package / Benefits
* Salary: €115,000–€135,000+ (depending on experience).
* Company car.
* 5% pension.
* Healthcare.
* Employee Assistance Programme.
* Career progression and long-term development opportunities.
* Professional development support, including further education and leadership development.
* Opportunity to take a senior operational role in a growing civil engineering business with a strong national pipeline.
How to Apply
Please apply with:
* Your up-to-date CV
* A brief summary of major civils / infrastructure projects you’ve managed in Ireland
* Your current notice periodYour salary expectations
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