Careers at K-Five Construction

K-Five Construction is rapidly growing and seeks experienced professionals and talented crafts people to join our rapidly growing team. Please fill out the general application below to be considered for the following open positions, or for possible open positions in the future!

Project Manager

Estimator
​

Payroll Specialist

Superintendent

Asphalt Paving Foreman

Concrete Paving Foreman

Parts Manager

Job Title: PROJECT MANAGER
The Project Manager provides overall management direction to multiple projects, establishes project objectives and policies, maintains liaison with prime client contracts, and monitors construction and financial activities through administrative
direction of on-site construction manager. May be top on-site manager on large, extensive projects. Ensures projects are completed within timeline and budgetary requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for managing and directing the project team through communication, coordination and follow up necessary
• to meet project goals and objectives.
• Establish and maintain customer relationships.
• Responsible for project start up, project completion and close out process.
• Develops Critical path schedule and maintains updates throughout the duration of the project.
• Authorizes correspondence to both Owner and Subcontractor when required, acting as primary liaison with Owner over contract matters.
• Chairs progress meetings with the Owner/Consultant and/or coordination meetings with Subcontractor as needed.
• Identifies and secures necessary approvals for all changes in project scope, budget and/or schedule
• Provides ongoing project information and project reviews as required by management.
• Ensures steady cash flow/pay estimate processing by Owner.
• Billing for all contract work, as well as estimating, submitting, negotiation, and billing extra work.
• Prepares and submits all contract documentation.
• Has overall responsibility for profitability of entire job.

Experience & Skills Required:

• Minimum of 5-10 years practical experience as a Project Manager, road construction industry preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management or related field.
• Project Manager Professional (PMP) certification a plus.
• Proficient in MS Office products, especially Excel and Outlook; experience with scheduling software.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprint drawings.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; solid speaking, facilitation and presentation skills.
• Outstanding customer relationship management skills; able to work with many stakeholders; highly skilled negotiator.
• Good attention to detail with the ability to recognize discrepancies.
• Strong leadership skills; ability to develop and motivate a project team.
• Must be knowledgeable in basic accounting functions.
• Must be a self-starter, willing to what it takes to get the job done.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements:
The working conditions for this job entail a combination of working in an office setting and working in the field. Offsite
jobsite visits include working outdoors in various weather conditions including extreme heat and cold with exposure to loud
noises and equipment with moving parts. Sitting and/or standing for extended periods of time, as well as operating a motor
vehicle. May require evening and weekend work on a regular basis during periods of heavy workload. Ability to occasionally
lift up to 25 lbs.

 

Job Title: ESTIMATOR
K-Five Construction, a leading heavy highway paving company, currently has a full time opening for an experienced Estimator at our headquarters in Westmont, Illinois (located near Ogden Ave/Route 83).  We offer a competitive compensation package and outstanding benefits in a fast-paced, casual, yet professional environment.  
 
The Estimator helps drive business by preparing complete and responsive bid proposals on large and complex projects including analyzing plans and specifications to develop detailed cost estimates for materials, equipment and labor required to construct the project.  This is accomplished by working closely with Operations, Project Managers, and Materials Managers during the bidding process to ensure accuracy of data used to estimate the project. Once a bid has been accepted, the Estimator will promptly work up and obtain execution of subcontracts and material purchase orders including insurance compliance.  Additionally, the Estimator will lead the hand-off of information to project management to be fully educated in all strategies, opportunities and risks that were recognized in the bidding process.
 
To be considered for the Estimator position, candidates must possess the following:

• A minimum of 8 years estimating experience in private and public markets including Highway, Airfield, Railroad, Streets & Roads, with a focus on paving.
• BS in Construction Management/Engineering, Accounting/Finance, Architecture or similar.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to estimate multiple projects at a given time.
• Ability to work independently with strong attention to detail and resolve issues/problems.
• Excellent verbal & written communications.
• Strong mathematical skills.
• Ability to work autonomously with little or no direction.
• Computer skills: proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Bluebeam, B2W or HCSS, Microsoft Project.
• Thorough understanding of the money-making process within the road construction industry.

The working conditions for this job entail performing work in an office setting, most often in a seated position.  Occasional offsite visits to jobsites with exposure to a variety of weather conditions. Such offsite visits will require operating a motor vehicle. Occasionally lifting up to 10 lbs.

 

Job Title: SUPERINTENDENT 
Reports to: General Superintendent 

Employment Type:  FT Union, 40+ weeks  
Relevant Work Experience:  3-5 yrs as Crew Foreman 

 
 Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Work together with Project Manager to execute over-all job plan as defined by bid documents, bid estimate, and start-up meeting agenda.   
• Participate in CPM schedule preparation with PM and Scheduler utilizing production rates “as bid” and performing quantity take-offs of major items to verify production rates and proposed durations  
• Locate and mobilize field offices for Engineer and K-Five. 

• Maintain a safe work place per OSHA and K-Five criteria. 
• Daily manage labor, materials, and equipment for K-Five performed work, efficiently to  

       meet or beat bid estimated unit costs, and maintain progress per approved CPM. 

• Calculate/document daily quick costs to verify/measure the above; copy to PM for overall    

        cost and CPM evaluation.   

• Check material yields directly relating to above. 

●     Delegate and/or perform quantity measurements for K-Five items. Quantity book and/or 
       spread sheet updated weekly, and copies to PM for current evaluation of progress  
       payments and CPM updates.  Maintain material ticket files. 
●     Coordinate Subcontractors to maintain progress per approved CPM and enable efficient  
       “as bid” performance of K-Five work. 
●     Provide PM with actual start and actual finish dates for CPM activities for mandatory two 
       (2) week updates. 
●     Identify extra work/plan errors/differing site condition, and advise PM.  Work with PM to  
       quantify potential impact. 
●     Prepare and obtain signatures on daily work reports for T&M work.  Prepare T&M 
       invoice (submit to PM) and/or submit work report to PM for invoice preparation and       
       submittal. 
●     Assist PM with the obtaining of required documentation to substantiate potential change 
       order and/or claim. 
●     Identify back-charge, if required, and provide PM with information to notify Subs in  
       writing and invoice. 
●     Work with PM on preparation of Job Status Report when required. 
●     Work together with PM on final documentation (K-Five’s quantities and material 
       deficiencies). 
●     Has overall responsibility for profitability of K-Five items. 
 
 
 
Experience & Skills Required: 

• HS diploma or GED equivalent and 5-7 years of supervisory experience in road construction; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Minimum of five years’ experience in a road construction superintendent role preferred.   
• Working knowledge of OSHA safety regulations. 
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; solid speaking and presentation skills. 
• Strong organizational and time management skills. 

• Must possess and maintain a valid Motor Vehicle Driver’s license, with a very clean driving record. 
• High degree of integrity, strong work ethic and ability to work independently with minimal supervision. 
• Good understanding of equipment, and labor used in road construction projects of various size and scope. 
• Must be a self-starter, willing to do what it takes to get the job done.  
• Able to occasionally lift up to 50lbs. 

 

Job title: Payroll Specialist

Department
Accounting

Reports to
Accounting Manager

Position Status
Full time, Exempt

 
Job purpose
 
The Payroll Specialist will work with the Payroll Manager and is responsible for maintaining payroll operations, compiling and recording employee time and payroll data.
 
Duties and responsibilities
 

• Performs data entry and payroll reconciliation, tracking down missing timesheet information when necessary.
• Assists with weekly payroll run using payroll/ERP software (Viewpoint Spectrum & B2W) to compute and post wages, deductions and prepare paychecks.
• Processing of weekly/monthly reports; transmittals of such documentation to various agencies and departments.
• Processing of fringe benefit contributions to various unions.
• Perform a variety of tasks including maintaining files and assisting in answering switchboard when required.
• Other duties as assigned.

 
Qualifications
 

• Associate’s degree and/or minimum 3-4 years of experience processing weekly payroll for mid-size to large company; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Requires the ability to maintain control over confidential information and documentation.
• Strong computer skills including MS Excel, with ability to develop spreadsheets and formulas; experience using payroll processing software preferred.
• Superior organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and strong problem-solving skills. 
• Ability to work in fast-paced environment and effectively prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
• Must have a positive demeanor and be a team player.
• HR knowledge and/or experience working within the road construction industry is preferred.   

 
Working conditions
 
General office environment with individual workstations.  May require longer hours on days in which payroll is processed in order to make deadlines.
 
Physical requirements
 
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
 
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear.  The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus.  Occasionally lift up to 10 lbs. 

 

Job title: Asphalt Paving Foreman
 
Reports to
Area Superintendent

Position Status
Full Time Union, 30+ weeks


Job purpose
 
Plans, directs, and coordinates a paving crew’s daily activities for road construction or maintenance project(s).
 
Duties and responsibilities

• Ensures safety of employees and public by complying with all safety initiatives, protocols and procedures.
• Measures all projects and tracks yield each day, ensuring that daily productions are met.
• Prepares plan for the day’s work for a morning huddle with the crew.
• Oversees general maintenance of asphalt paving equipment.
• Completes weekly timesheets accurately and on time.

 
Qualifications

• HS diploma or GED equivalent and 3-5 years of road construction experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Working knowledge of OSHA safety regulations.
• Must have ability to read and interpret plans.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
• Must possess strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Must be a self-starter, willing to do what it takes to get the job done.
• Able to occasionally lift up to 50lbs.
• Dependable transportation is required.

Working conditions
 
This job requires working outdoors in various weather conditions including extreme heat.  May require evening and weekend work on a regular basis.
 
Physical requirements
 
Incumbent is required to stand for extended periods of time, lift heavy objects on a regular basis with few breaks.  Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

 

Job title: Concrete Paving Foreman
 
Job purpose
 
Plan, direct, or coordinate the concrete paving crew’s daily activities concerned with the construction or maintenance project.
 
 
Duties and responsibilities
 

• Ensures safety of employees and public by complying with all safety initiatives, protocols and procedures.
• Measures all projects and tracks yield each day, ensuring that daily productions are met.
• Prepares plan for the day’s work for a morning huddle with the crew.
• Oversees general maintenance of equipment.
• Completes weekly timesheets accurately and on time.

 
 
Qualifications
 

• HS diploma or GED equivalent and 3-5 years of road construction experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Working knowledge of OSHA safety regulations.
• Must have ability to read and interpret plans.
• Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
• Must possess strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

• Must be a self-starter, willing to do what it takes to get the job done.
• Able to occasionally lift up to 50lbs.
• Dependable transportation is required.

 
Working conditions
 
This job requires working outdoors in various weather conditions including extreme heat.  May require evening and weekend work on a regular basis.
 
Physical requirements
 
Incumbent is required to stand for extended periods of time, lift heavy objects on a regular basis with few breaks.  Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
 

 

Job title:  Parts Manager / Assistant Shop Foreman

Department
Shop

Reports to
Maintenance Mechanic Foreman

Position Status
Exempt

 
Job purpose
 
Coordinates activities involved with procuring parts, goods and services such as raw materials, small equipment, tools, parts, and supplies. Acts as assistant manager coordinating activities of workers involved in the setting up, installing, repairing and maintaining trucks, trailers, and heavy equipment by the following duties.
 
Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage a physical inventory dollar lever according to EOQ and JIT.
• Set inventory objectives with shop staff.
• Instill an annual parts budget with daily, weekly, and monthly reports to track objective (purchasing, inventory turns, inventory levels, etc.). These KPI’s to be established by the purchasing committee. (To be emailed to shop foreman and shop administrator)
• Helps in populating CMMS.
• Maintain and track all mechanics parts request with fill rate of 98%.
• Reviews requisitions for parts from mechanics to determine options, consults with shop foreman, mechanics and shop administrator when needed.
• Initiate weekly meeting with mechanic(s) on progress / changes in the parts department using Shop Outlook calendar.
• Confers with current and new vendors to obtain parts or service information such as price, availability, and delivery schedule, pricing, products and K-Five’s purchasing levels.
• Analyzes market and any cost savings in procuring parts vie e-commerce. (i.e.: Mack, Ford Fleet Rewards, Cat, Internet, etc.)
• Selects products for purchase (i.e.: nuts, bolts, shop consumables, etc.) by testing, observing, or examining items and presenting to maintenance staff (mechanics) for evaluation. Change of vendors to be approved by of Purchasing committee.
• Determines method of procurement such as purchase order or credit card.
• Prepares and maintains all purchase and return orders and change notices utilizing Spectrum software.
• Oversees Parts Runners and assigns them to different shifts as needed.
• Evaluates problem situation(s). Develops options of repair scenarios with Shop Foreman for the most cost-efficient repair. Repairs in excess of $3,000.00 confer with shop administrator.
• Maintains procurement records such as parts, supplies, small equipment, or services purchased, costs, delivery, product quality or performance, on computerized records and inventories.
• Completes partial audits of computerized inventory records to ensure accuracy and sufficient quantities on a weekly basis.
• Discusses defective or unacceptable goods or services with the mechanics and takes corrective action with vendors, inspectors or other quality personnel. (Warranty Issues)
• Approves invoices for timely payment.
• Expedites delivery of parts to mechanics.
• Submits daily “shop notes” at end of shift to all shop employees on all activities.
• Recommends for disposal any surplus parts and materials and method of disposal.
• Develops and installs parts counter, stock room, and parts runner’s procedures and practices, studies workflow and shop arrangements to determine expediency of parts movement.
• Responsible for assisting Shop Foreman in supervision of 25 employees in the Parts Department and Shop.
• Performs Shop Foreman’s duties in their absence.
• Monday-Friday work week, with a rotational schedule on Saturdays during season of March – December.
• Other duties may be assigned.

 
Qualifications & Requirements
 
Qualifications include:

• High School Diploma or General Education (GED), plus 3-5 years related experience and/or training. Or equivalent combination of education and experience in parts procurement
• Some supervisory responsibility in maintenance of trailers, trucks and heavy equipment.
• Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, shop and parts manuals, professional journals, technical procedures and governmental regulations.
• Ability to write simple reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, suppliers, manufacturers, mechanics and field personnel.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference and volume.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suites.
• Experience in, but not limited to, JIT, Inventory costing, EOQ, etc.

 
Certificate/Licensing Requirements:

• Must have valid driver’s license (with no more than two moving violations in the past 5 years).
• Minimum Class C CDL.

 
 
Working conditions
 
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
 
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to a heavy shop environment.
 
Physical requirements
 
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
 
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, talk or hear, and smell and taste. The employee must occasionally lift and or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
 
The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 50 pounds.

Our Partners

K-Five Construction is a union contractor and hires directly through the following union affiliations:

Operating Engineers Local 150
​Auto Mechanics, Local 701 I.A.M.
​Fox Valley & Vicinity Laborers
​Teamsters Joint Council 25

Construction & General Laborers District Council of Chicago & Vicinity
Cement Masons Local 11​
Cement Masons Local 502