Associate Construction Manager (Irvine)

CHAGEE (pronounced CHAH-jee) is a modern tea house with over 6,500 locations globally.

Our teas have a rich cultural heritage stretching across several thousand years. We are one of the earliest regional teahouse chains positioned as the purveyor of modern tea culture. Our mission is to refresh and reintroduce the lifestyle of tea to the world, where guests can connect in a beautiful space and enjoy premium and diverse flavors of tea.

Through our stores across Malaysia, China, Singapore, and Thailand, we serve a staggering 100 million cups of tea monthly. CHAGEE is excited to expand to the US market, and this is your chance to be part of an exhilarating journey as we deliver the taste of authentic tea culture to America.

Overview :

Elevate your career with CHAGEE as our Associate Construction Manager. In this role, youll support CHAGEEs national expansion by overseeing new retail store and production facility buildouts across the U.S. From pre-lease feasibility through construction closeout. Youll play a vital role in ensuring that each project is delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with our brand standards. This role collaborates cross-functionally with Real Estate, Design, Operations, and Facilities, and works closely with general contractors, architects, and vendors to ensure successful project delivery.

What you'll do :

• Manage all phases of construction for assigned sites from early feasibility to grand opening, including site walks and constructability reviews.
• Collaborate with Real Estate and Design teams on LOIs, lease work letters, scopes, schedules, and budgets.
• Prepare and manage project budgets and timelines, aligning with internal pro formas, brand goals, and operational readiness.
• Lead general contractor selection, including issuing RFQs, validating bids, negotiating costs, and managing internal approval workflows.
• Review construction documentation and identify issues that could affect project feasibility or execution.
• Coordinate with external consultants (architects, expeditors, etc.) to obtain permits and approvals required for construction.
• Conduct regular site visits, lead OAC (Owner-Architect-Contractor) meetings, and track site progress through construction and turnover.
• Oversee utility installations, equipment deliveries, and other construction milestones critical to training and grand opening schedules.
• Manage the procurement, delivery, and installation of Owner-Supplied Materials (OSM).
• Ensure a clean, high-quality turnover to Operations with minimal open items and oversee post-opening warranty issue resolution.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, including contracts, budgets, schedules, permits, and as-built records.
• Lead project close-out activities to ensure all deliverables (COs, final inspections, entitlements) are completed and recorded properly.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in a rapidly evolving environment.
• Be prepared for duties and responsibilities to evolve, and show a willingness to step outside of your usual scope to support the company's growth. Expect opportunities for personal and professional growth as you navigate new challenges.

Experience you need to be successful :

What We Offer :

CHAGEE is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

The expected base salary range for this position is $80,000 - $100,000. Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on considerations including (but not limited to) : relevant knowledge and experience for this position, skills, education, certifications and more.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be at the forefront of CHAGEE's expansion into the US market. Join us in shaping the future of premium tea culture and creating unforgettable experiences that will captivate global tea enthusiasts. Apply now and be part of something truly extraordinary!