Jennifer Starr – raSmith

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Jennifer Starr thrives in the fast-paced world of construction.

Starr, assistant director of construction services at raSmith, is an industry veteran with more than 20 years of experience. She began her career with the civil and structural engineering and surveying firm in 2012 as a construction inspector.

She has since received promotions to assistant project manager, project manager and moved into her current position in October. Starr works closely with the director of construction services to manage up to 40 people.

She is responsible for the weekly scheduling of all staff, including those within the division, as well as staff in other divisions at raSmith who are qualified to assist on an as-needed basis during the busy construction season.

That part of her job can be particularly challenging.

“Daily inspector scheduling with ever-changing contractor schedules is a challenge,” she said. “Another challenging task is scheduling PTO to ensure that our inspectors are able to take their necessary time off.”

Paul Schafer, director of construction services at raSmith, said Starr is “always seeking solutions to construction challenges that arise in the field. She enjoys the challenges that are part of her job and seeing the final results.”

One of the aspects that Starr enjoys most about her job is working with clients and her inspectors to complete projects according to the municipalities’ specifications.

“When a client is happy after the completion of a project it is very satisfying,” she said. “Our inspection staff take pride in their jobs and working with them on a daily basis is rewarding.”

For those considering a career in the construction industry, Starr said that communication with your company is important.

“raSmith worked with me and my schedule while growing my family,” she said. “They were flexible and accommodating. Also, be confident and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

Outside of work, Starr volunteers at her children’s school and is also a member of her local church, St. Joseph Catholic Church in Big Bend.