Construction Specialist

Company Description Big Way Hot Pot is a fast-growing restaurant brand that has redefined the modern hot pot experience since its founding in 2021. The company has rapidly gained popularity and become a must-visit destination for hot pot enthusiasts across the region. With a team of over 1,000 dedicated team members, Big Way Hot Pot focuses on quality, consistency, and innovative dining concepts. The company is driven by a mission to become the leading Asian cuisine brand in North America, offering growth opportunities for individuals who want to shape its expansion. Team members join a dynamic environment where operational excellence and guest satisfaction are core priorities.

Role Description The Construction Specialist is a full-time, on-site role based in LA. This role will be responsible for coordinating permits, site activities, contractors, materials, project documentation, and cross-functional communication to ensure projects are completed on time, within scope, and in accordance with company standards.

The ideal candidate has experience in construction, engineering, or restaurant renovation, understands basic building systems, and is comfortable spending a significant amount of time on construction sites and travelling between store locations.

Qualifications

• Manage and follow up on permits and licences required for new store openings, including Health Permits and other applicable approvals.
• Conduct site measurements and collect key site information to support accurate design and construction planning.
• Participate in design reviews and provide construction input to ensure proposed designs are practical and buildable.
• Coordinate and supervise construction activities, monitoring project schedules, workmanship, and quality to ensure timely delivery in accordance with company standards.
• Assist with identifying and resolving site issues involving basic electrical, plumbing, gas, HVAC, exhaust, and other building systems.
• Coordinate equipment, fixtures, construction materials, and related deliveries according to company specifications and project schedules.
• Work with overseas material suppliers to communicate project requirements and site conditions, place orders, and follow up on production, shipping, and delivery.
• Coordinate and manage general contractors, subcontractors, and regular service providers, including grease trap cleaning, exhaust cleaning, and other maintenance services.
• Manage project Change Orders (COs) by confirming scope, reviewing pricing, tracking approvals, and assisting with cost control.
• Coordinate with internal teams, including Design, Construction, Operations, and Maintenance, as well as contractors, landlords, consultants, and local authorities to ensure project information is aligned.
• Conduct project inspections and handovers, track deficiencies, and follow up until all outstanding items are resolved.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date project records, including construction progress, site issues, quotations, Change Orders, schedules, and other related documentation.
• Support the Head Office Maintenance Coordinator with site inspections, troubleshooting, sourcing local contractors, coordinating repairs, and following up on outstanding maintenance issues.
• Travel as required, primarily for training in Vancouver and occasionally to support projects in other regions.

Candidate Requirements

• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English and Chinese .
• Previous experience in construction, engineering, restaurant renovation, commercial fit-outs, or a related field .
• Valid driver’s licence and ability to drive frequently between construction sites and store locations.
• Basic knowledge of building systems, including electrical, plumbing, gas, HVAC, and exhaust systems .
• Ability to read construction drawings and understand design intent.
• Experience coordinating site activities, contractors, schedules, and project progress.
• Basic hands-on skills and ability to assist with simple repairs and site troubleshooting.
• Strong ownership, attention to detail, execution, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and coordination skills with the ability to work effectively with multiple internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with local subcontractors, trades, and suppliers is considered an asset.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required.

Work Requirements

• Approximately 60% of working time / minimum 3 days per week will be spent at construction sites or store locations.
• Frequent driving between project sites and store locations is required.
• Occasional travel outside the local region may be required depending on project needs.