Critical Systems Project Manager -BAS

Job Description

Job Description

Critical Systems Executive Project Manager (Data Centers – Building Automation)Overview

We are seeking an experienced Critical Systems Executive Project Manager to lead large-scale Building Automation System (BAS) and critical infrastructure projects within the data center market. This role is responsible for managing complex projects from pre-construction through commissioning while serving as the primary point of contact for owners, general contractors, consultants, and end users.

The ideal candidate brings a strong background in data center construction, HVAC controls, and building automation systems , along with proven experience managing project financials, schedules, resources, subcontractors, and client relationships.

Key ResponsibilitiesProject Leadership

• Manage a portfolio of large-scale building automation and controls projects ranging from $1M to $25M+ .
• Lead projects from project development and design coordination through installation, commissioning, turnover, and closeout.
• Ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with contractual requirements.
• Serve as the primary client-facing leader for project execution and customer satisfaction.

Financial Management

• Maintain overall financial responsibility for assigned projects, including:
  • Budget management
  • Revenue forecasting
  • Billing and invoicing
  • Cost control
  • Change order management
  • Accounts receivable support
  • Project forecasting and re-estimating
• Monitor project performance metrics and implement corrective actions when needed.

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with owners, general contractors, engineering firms, and end users.
• Lead project meetings and provide executive-level project updates.
• Identify opportunities for scope growth and secure change orders when applicable.
• Ensure a high level of customer satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.

Operational Execution

• Coordinate project resources, subcontractors, suppliers, and field personnel.
• Identify resource constraints and develop mitigation plans to maintain project schedules.
• Support project teams including Project Managers, Project Engineers, Controls Engineers, and Site Supervisors.
• Review project documentation, submittals, schedules, scope requirements, and technical deliverables.

Technical Oversight

• Oversee the delivery of Building Automation Systems (BAS), HVAC controls, and critical environment monitoring systems.
• Collaborate with engineering and commissioning teams to resolve design and system integration challenges.
• Review technical specifications and ensure compliance with project requirements.
• Support troubleshooting and issue resolution throughout execution and startup phases.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 5+ years of Project Management experience in the construction industry.
• 5+ years of experience managing Building Automation, Controls, HVAC, or Critical Systems projects.
• Experience managing projects exceeding $1M in value.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and scope documents.
• Strong understanding of project scheduling, budgeting, forecasting, and contract administration.
• Valid Driver's License and ability to travel to project sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience supporting or managing data center construction projects .
• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.
• Experience with:
  • Building Automation Systems (BAS)
  • HVAC Controls
  • Critical Infrastructure
  • Commissioning and Startup Activities
  • Mission Critical Facilities
• Knowledge of project risk management, project planning, and estimating.
• Experience leading cross-functional project teams and mentoring junior project staff.

Desired Skills

• Strong leadership and team development capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and client relationship management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Strong organizational and planning skills.
• Ability to influence stakeholders and drive project performance.
• Working knowledge of:
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Project
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft Word
  • Other construction and project management software applications

Ideal background

Successful candidates typically come from backgrounds in:

• Building Automation Systems (BAS)
• HVAC Controls
• Mechanical Contracting
• Commissioning
• Mission Critical Construction
• Data Center Construction
• Controls Engineering
• Electrical and Mechanical Systems Integration

This role is ideal for a project leader who thrives in highly technical environments and enjoys delivering complex critical infrastructure projects while serving as a trusted advisor to key clients and stakeholders.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Washington, D.C..

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $36.06 - $55.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Washington,D.C..

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 16, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.