Denver Health

Senior Director, Planning, Design & Construction

Denver Health$165K — $280K *
Hospitals & Medical Centers
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in construction, design, or planning field required; Master's preferred.
  • 7-9 years of experience in healthcare planning, design, and construction.
  • Exceptional skills in identifying areas for improvement and problem-solving.
  • Experience leading culture change and data-driven decision-making.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

  • Direct and manage all aspects of capital construction projects.
  • Oversee planning for Denver Health facilities and coordinate with consultants.
  • Resolve issues related to construction and building plan changes.
  • Ensure budget compliance and minimize operational disruptions during projects.
  • Lead logistics coordination for safety and patient flow during renovations.
  • Review design changes in collaboration with hospital departments.
  • Develop agendas and facilitate meetings with diverse stakeholder groups.

Benefits

  • 28 days of paid time off per year, including holidays.
  • 100% paid parental leave for up to 6 weeks.
  • Immediate retirement plan eligibility with employer contributions up to 9.5%.
  • Comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Access to on-site fitness facilities and wellness programs.
  • Free public transportation pass (RTD EcoPass).
  • Tuition reimbursement and support for professional development.
  • Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) and employer assistance.
Full Job Description
We are recruiting for a mission-driven Senior Director, Planning, Design & Construction to join our team!


We're with you for life’s journey. At Denver Health, purpose isn’t just something we believe in—it’s something we live every day, for life’s journey.

Our Values

Respect | Belonging | Accountability | Transparency

Department

Operations Management

Job Summary
Reporting to the Associate Chief Operating Officer the Director of Planning, Design and Construction ("Director") leads, administers, and oversees the strategic, financial and operational direction of the Division of Planning, Design and Construction. Responsibilities include assuring the optimal completion of all capital improvement projects by overseeing the planning, design, construction and occupancy phases of projects. This position is a member of the Support Services leadership team and will lead and participate in strategic short- and long-term capital planning. Under minimum supervision, leads efforts optimizing the clinical and non-clinical services of the organization throughout the planning and design phases, and through the delivery and commissioning phases. Ensures that budgets are met and that best value is achieved in all processes and standard work. Responsible for maintaining optimal patient safety, public access and patient flow during construction projects.

Essential Functions:

  • Directs the planning aspects for all Denver Health facilities to include space planning, and facility master planning. Leads, coordinates and manages internal and external consultants for specific planning needed by individual services. (10%)
  • Responsible for all capital construction projects; works with the Purchasing department to develop and issue RFP’s/RFQ’s for the selection of design and construction teams. Leads and coordinates Denver Health team members that participate in the selection process, along with Purchasing Manager. (10%)
  • Investigates and helps resolve problems arising from construction or changes in existing buildings. Leads in the initial planning and conceptualization of building plans that involve areas in current buildings. (10%)
  • Ensures that such renovations occur within budget and conform to company needs. Ensures that pre-planning of new construction harmonizes with the current building so as to minimize cost and disruption to the facility. (10%)
  • Logistics Coordination – directs safety and security operations to ensure a safe environment during renovation or construction for employees, patients and visitors. Ensures that facilities remain operational during construction. Directs interdepartmental and interoffice moves to minimize disruption to daily operations. Helps problem solve issues related to parking, public access, and patient flow and arranges for the implementation of these solutions. (10%)
  • Coordinates with hospital departments to review design changes and equipment specifications/substitutions. Determines an efficient utilization of resources needed to effectively operate areas impacted by construction, including evaluation of workforce, supplies, and equipment. Works with internal personnel from Finance to investigate and study alternatives to current operating strategies. Reviews findings and evaluates in terms of effect on operations, production of income and cost factors. Ensures that operation changes suggested are consistent with the mission and strategic goals of Denver Health. (10%)
  • Identify applicable sites to be visited related to particular projects. Identify appropriate members of the project team to attend site visits. Identify goals for each site visit. Arrange for analysis among attendees after the site visit. (10%)
  • Coordinate schedules with large groups of people to attend these meetings. Develop agendas, as needed, to best use the time allotted. Develop handouts, worksheets, etc. for meetings. (10%)
  • Communicate with internal and external individuals to transfer information effectively. Has the ability to transfer information regarding Denver Health’s mission and goals in relation to construction projects. Communicates professionally and objectively both orally and in writing. (5%)
  • Ensures that design plans contain information regarding MIS needs, support, phones, emergency power and medical gasses that meet the clinical needs of the caregivers. Ensure that information covering infection control needs for all new construction areas are in the design plans. Ensure compliance to all accreditation standards such as the Joint Commission and Facilities Guidelines Institute (FGI). (5%)
  • Will lead constant pro-active business and financial analysis, continuous process improvement of all financial, supply chain, purchase, procurement and contract functions. Provide leadership and development of production measures, key performance indicators (KPIs), and leadership dashboards for the department. (5%)
  • Leads, inspires, develops, implements, assesses, refines and enhances the departments’ project planning, management and execution capabilities, including the build out of robust dashboards and standard work systems that monitor quality, key trends, program tracking, and strategic, operational and financial performance. The Director will lead the creation of a permanent culture of continuous improvement such that true definition of Lean is achieved: “the group by themselves, using systematic problem solving, to improve the work they do, towards the achievement of the company’s target and goals, when and only when the company culture is the reason the improvement occurs.” (5%)


Education:

  • Bachelor's degree with a concentration in a construction, design or planning related field required
    Masters in architectural or engineering degrees is preferred.


Work Experience:

  • Seven to nine years in healthcare planning, design and construction required. required


Licenses:

    Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

    • Must exhibit exceptional acumen in pro-actively identifying areas for improvement, identifying and analyzing data patterns of concern, and actively probing the system for problem solving opportunities.
    • Must be an extraordinary learner and teacher, and possess exceptional aptitude, experience and acumen for the Toyota Production System philosophy, methodologies. She/he must be able to lead complex culture change, data-driven decision-making and create and support a constant problem-solving team culture.
    • Must be self-activated and ready to lead all efforts with little to no instruction. Must function with the pro-activeness, thoughtfulness and the strategic vision of a mini-CEO for his/her portfolio. She/he must possess extraordinary emotional intelligence and quotient, highly persuasive communication skills, exceptional interpersonal relationship skills and the ability to build genuine trust relationships throughout the organization and beyond. Must be able to lead, manage, advise, mentor, direct and evaluate employees with grace, fairness and accountability. She/he must have the requisite intellectual, operational and leadership skills to be a genuine and effective change agent for the portfolio.
    • Must exhibit strong organizational skills to set priorities and ability to work with high degree of accuracy and attention to details while responding to tight deadlines and multiple priorities and demands.
    • Excellent Communications skills.
    • Ability to work under pressure.
    • Willingness to work nights and/or weekends during emergencies or critical stages of a project.
    • Ability to organize and lead a collaborative team of professionals.
    • Oral and written communication skills to interact effectively with Denver Health leadership, staff and funders.
    • The ability to execute strategic planning involving collaboration of internal and external stakeholders.
    • The ability to create and administer complex budgets as well as leverage funding from multiple sources to meet goals and objectives.
    • The ability to interpret financial and service utilization information in order to identify opportunities for improvement.

    Shift

    Days (United States of America)

    Work Type

    Regular

    Salary

    $165,200.00 - $280,800.00 / yr


    Benefits


    At Denver Health, we take care of the people who take care of our community. Our benefits are built to support your life, your family, and your future — with generous paid time off, fully paid parental leave, exceptional retirement contributions, comprehensive health coverage, and nationally recognized well-being programs. We invest in your growth through tuition assistance, career advancement pathways, and professional development — while also offering meaningful financial advantages through loan forgiveness eligibility and employer contributions. When you join Denver Health, you’re joining a mission-driven organization that invests in you.


    Here is a small list of our benefit programs:

    • Paid time off starting at 28 days per year, inclusive of vacation, personal/sick, and 7 Holidays
    • 100% paid parental leave up to 6 weeks
    • Immediate eligibility for retirement plans with employer contribution up to 9.5%
    • Generous medical, dental, vision plans in addition to employer paid disability and life insurance.
    • Comprehensive well-being programs including on-site employee fitness center located on Denver Health main campus and nationally recognized RESTORE Center
    • Free RTD EcoPass (public transportation)
    • Childcare discount programs & exclusive perks on large brands, travel, and more
    • Tuition reimbursement & assistance
    • Education, coaching, and professional development opportunities through the Workforce Development Center (WFDC) that support internal career growth and advancement pathways
    • Professional clinical advancement program & shared governance
    • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer+ free student loan coaching and assistance navigating the PSLF program
    • National Health Service Corps (NHCS) and Colorado Health Service Corps (CHSC) eligible employer


    About Denver Health

    Denver Health stands as a beacon of healthcare excellence in Denver, Colorado. Denver’s comprehensive healthcare system offers an array of high-paying jobs and rewarding career opportunities. This integrated network, encompassing a premier hospital, a series of community health centers, and a robust public health department, serves as the city's primary safety net institution. As a Level One Trauma Center with specialized pediatric and neonatal intensive care units, Denver Health is not only pivotal in providing critical care but also plays a significant role in medical education, being affiliated with the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

    Overview of Denver Health Careers

    A Diverse Range of Healthcare Roles

    Denver Health careers span a wide spectrum, from clinical roles in nursing and specialized medicine to administrative and support positions. As a teaching hospital, it offers a unique environment for professional growth, blending patient care with educational opportunities.

    Available Job Opportunities

    High-Demand Positions

    Among the highest paying and most sought-after positions at Denver Health are Psychologist, Psychiatrist, and Licensed Therapist roles. This reflects the system's comprehensive approach to mental health services alongside its medical offerings.

    Nursing and Clinical Staff

    Opportunities in nursing and other clinical areas offer the chance to work directly with a diverse patient population. And of course, nursing and clinical staff are supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a network of community clinics.

    Administrative and Support Roles

    From medical billing specialists to healthcare administrators, Denver Health provides a variety of non-clinical positions essential to the smooth operation of the healthcare system.

    Qualifications and Requirements

    Ensuring the Highest Standards of Care

    Denver Health seeks healthcare professionals who possess the necessary skills and experience and are committed to excellence in patient care and continuous learning.

    Education and Certification

    For clinical positions, specific degrees, certifications, and licenses are required, reflecting the level of expertise and specialization needed to meet the healthcare needs of the Denver community.

    Application Process

    Steps to Joining Denver Health

    The journey to a career at Denver Health begins with a straightforward application process designed to identify candidates who align with the system's values and standards of care.

    Submitting Your Application

    Candidates can apply through Denver Health's online job portal, where current vacancies are listed. A detailed resume and cover letter tailored to the specific position are crucial components of the application.

    Interview Tips and Techniques

    Standing Out as a Candidate

    Succeeding in the interview requires preparation and an understanding of what Denver Health values in its staff—a dedication to patient care, teamwork, and professional integrity.

    Demonstrating Your Fit

    Be ready to discuss how your skills, experience, and values align with the mission of Denver Health. Prepare examples from your past work that showcase your ability to contribute positively to the healthcare system.

    Training and Development Programs

    Commitment to Continuous Professional Growth

    Denver Health offers extensive training and development programs, supporting its staff in achieving their highest potential and ensuring the delivery of top-quality care.

    Advancing Your Skills

    From on-the-job training to formal education programs, employees have opportunities to enhance their clinical skills, leadership abilities, and overall knowledge of healthcare practices.

    Benefits and Compensation Packages

    Rewarding Your Contribution

    Denver Health offers competitive benefits and compensation packages, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of its employees with rewards that reflect their value to the healthcare system.

    Comprehensive Benefits

    Employees enjoy a range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off, alongside opportunities for bonuses and salary advancements based on performance and experience.

    Employee Testimonials and Success Stories

    From Our Staff to You

    Hearing directly from Denver Health employees provides insight into the supportive work environment, career advancement opportunities, and the personal satisfaction derived from making a difference in the lives of patients.

    Making an Impact

    Employee stories highlight the rewarding nature of work at Denver Health, where every staff member plays a critical role in providing care and improving community health.

    Career Advancement Opportunities

    Pathways to Professional Development

    Denver Health is committed to the career advancement of its employees, offering various pathways for professional development, from leadership roles within the nursing staff to specialized medical positions and administrative leadership.

    Contacts and Resources for Further Information

    Navigating Your Denver Health Career Path

    For more detailed information about careers, the application process, or specific job openings at Denver Health, prospective applicants are encouraged to utilize the following resources:

    Denver Health Careers Page

    The primary resource for current job listings, application guidelines, and comprehensive information about working at Denver Health.

    Further Assistance

    For specific questions not addressed on the website, potential applicants can contact Denver Health's HR department directly through the provided contact details on the careers page.
    Learn more about Denver Health
    Size
    7,000 employees
    Industry
    Founded
    1860

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