Change Order
A Change Order is a formal document that modifies the original construction contract. It's like an official update or amendment that captures any changes to the project's scope, cost, or timeline that weren't in the original plan. Think of it as similar to when you're renovating your house and discover you need extra work - you need a formal agreement about the new work and its cost. Construction professionals use Change Orders to keep track of these modifications and ensure everyone (contractors, clients, project managers) agrees to the changes.
Examples in Resumes
Managed over $2M worth of Change Orders on commercial construction projects
Processed and documented Change Order requests resulting in 15% cost savings
Successfully negotiated Change Orders and contract modifications for 50+ projects
Typical job title: "Change Order Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Change Order Managers
Professional Associations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle disputes related to Change Orders?
Expected Answer: Should explain process of documentation, negotiation strategies, conflict resolution, and maintaining professional relationships while protecting project interests. Should mention importance of clear communication and proper record-keeping.
Q: How do you evaluate the impact of multiple Change Orders on project timeline and budget?
Expected Answer: Should discuss methods for analyzing cumulative effects, risk assessment, cost-benefit analysis, and communication with stakeholders. Should mention tools and techniques used for tracking and reporting.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What information should be included in a Change Order?
Expected Answer: Should list key elements like description of changes, cost implications, time impact, required signatures, and supporting documentation. Should understand the importance of clear language and detailed documentation.
Q: How do you prioritize multiple Change Order requests?
Expected Answer: Should explain assessment of urgency, impact on critical path, cost considerations, and resource availability. Should discuss communication with different project stakeholders.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of a Change Order?
Expected Answer: Should explain that Change Orders document modifications to original contract scope, price, or timeline. Should understand basic process flow and approval requirements.
Q: What's the difference between a Change Order and a Change Directive?
Expected Answer: Should explain that Change Orders require mutual agreement while Change Directives allow work to proceed before final price agreement. Should understand basic contract terminology.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of construction documents
- Change Order processing and filing
- Basic cost tracking
- Document control
Mid (2-5 years)
- Change Order creation and negotiation
- Budget impact analysis
- Stakeholder communication
- Contract interpretation
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex Change Order management
- Risk assessment and mitigation
- Dispute resolution
- Strategic project planning
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of construction documentation processes
- Poor understanding of contract basics
- Lack of experience with cost tracking or budgeting
- Unable to explain approval processes
- No experience with construction project management software
Related Terms
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