Construction Senior Project Manager (Mission Critical + Data Center)

Job Description

Job Description

At Gardner, commercial construction should feel as welcoming as it is professional. That’s why we don’t just build construction projects, we build relationships, rooted in hospitality. Our mission is to set the platinum standard for our clients, partners, and team members by delivering exceptional results while embodying our core values: passion, humility, excellence, empathy, and nimbleness. We bring a hospitality-driven approach to every project, ensuring every interaction is thoughtful, responsive, and human-centered.

You must be currently legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status, 0-1, TN, CPT, OPT, etc.). We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time. 

This position calls Minneapolis, MN or Milwaukee, WI home. If you're not local but this role is speaking to you, don't let that stop you from applying. We're open to candidates from other markets and will offer relocation assistance for the right fit.

Who You Are

You’re a seasoned leader who thrives in complex, high-stakes environments where relationships and results carry equal weight. You’re motivated, proactive, and adaptable, with a proven track record of delivering Mission Critical and Data Center projects at scale. As a leader, you set the tone for your team. You’re clear in your expectations, steady under pressure, and generous in giving credit where it’s due. You know how to inspire people to perform at their best by building trust, creating clarity, and fostering accountability. Your leadership isn’t just about managing projects;  it’s about developing people, elevating teams, and shaping a culture where hospitality and excellence go hand in hand. Clients look to you as a trusted advisor, and your team looks to you for mentorship and direction. Above all, you embody Gardner’s hospitality-driven approach, ensuring that every interaction is thoughtful, responsive, and people-centered.

You're nimble. You can move, adapt, and lead in any environment, which means you're ready to work across more than one market focus. Alongside mission-critical work, you could find yourself contributing to Commercial Interiors, Education, Industrial, Healthcare, Historic Repositions, and Science & Technology projects. For you, that range isn't a stretch. It's how you build a career, not just buildings.

How You’ll Contribute

Leadership + Client Partnership

• Serve as the executive leader of multiple Mission Critical projects, accountable for success across scope, schedule, budget, and quality.
• Cultivate strong, trust-based client relationships, serving as a liaison and advisor throughout the project lifecycle.
• Represent Gardner’s mission and vision in proposal presentations, interviews, and industry events.
• Generate new business opportunities by leveraging relationships with owners and the design community.
  

Project + Financial Oversight

• Oversee project contracts, risk management, and financial performance with a focus on accuracy, profitability, and strategic growth.
• Lead and mentor project managers, project coordinators, and superintendents to ensure excellence across all aspects of project execution.
• Manage bidding, estimating, forecasting, change orders, pay applications, and trade partner invoicing.
• Quickly and professionally resolve challenges, mobilizing resources and aligning teams toward solutions.

Execution + Closeout

• Guide project teams through all construction phases, ensuring communication, collaboration, and accountability.
• Lead project and procurement meetings to maintain alignment with clients, designers, and trade partners.
• Drive project closeout, including punch list oversight, final billings, and completion of closeout checklists.
• Contribute to long-term strategies for Gardner’s growth in the Mission Critical market.

What Success Looks Like

You’ll know you’re succeeding when:

• Your projects consistently deliver on schedule, budget, and quality, earning repeat business from clients.
• Clients see you as a trusted advisor, turning to you not only for project execution but also for strategic partnership.
• Your team feels supported, challenged, and inspired under your leadership, with clear opportunities for growth and development.
• You anticipate risks before they become problems and guide your team to solutions with confidence and composure.
• You help Gardner strengthen its reputation as a platinum standard partner in the Mission Critical and Data Center markets.
• You contribute to the growth of the business by opening doors to new relationships, markets, and project opportunities.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, construction engineering, or similar discipline. 
• 8–10 years of progressive experience as a Project Manager and/or Project Executive, with proven leadership of Mission Critical or Data Center projects.
• Successful completion of the FE exam (EIT certification is a plus).
• Demonstrated experience leading Mission Critical projects, including data centers.
• Working knowledge of general contracting and project lifecycle management.
• Familiarity with the Last Planner System (LSP), LEAN Construction, and ASHRAE standards.
• Understanding of Mission Critical electrical and HVAC system components.
• Strong financial and business acumen, with the ability to confidently manage budgets, forecasting, and cost reporting.
• Skilled in estimating and technical writing, with a sharp attention to detail.
• Strong communicator, able to clearly convey information in verbal, written, and visual formats.
• A collaborative and humble approach, with a focus on finding solutions and supporting the team.
• Proficiency in construction management and scheduling tools such as Procore, Microsoft Project, Outbuild, and Bluebeam.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and make sound decisions independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and adaptable, with an ability to stay one step ahead and pivot with purpose when needed.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a team-first mindset and a strong sense of accountability.
• Comfortable working with Apple devices and Google Workspace (or ability to learn).
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to maintain a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record.
• Willingness to travel outside the Twin Cities metro (please describe your expectations when applying).

What Will Set You Apart

• Demonstrated success leading large-scale, highly complex Mission Critical and Data Center projects.
• Exceptional financial and business acumen, with expertise in forecasting, reporting, and risk management.
• A hospitality-first leadership style, combining technical expertise with empathy and trust-building.
• Experience mentoring and developing high-performing teams.

Why Join Gardner Builders?

We are proud to be recognized as:

• 7-Time “Best Places to Work” by Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal
• 6-Time “Top 150 Workplaces” by Minneapolis Star Tribune
• #1 Top Workplace in Construction by Star Tribune (2023)
• 4-Time “Best Workplace” by Inc Magazine
• “Best Places to Work” by Milwaukee Business Journal

Our culture-first approach fosters personal and professional growth, an EOS-led structure, and a commitment to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, challenged, and enjoys coming to work.

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual Salary: $125,000 - $200,000 annual salary (paid weekly) + discretionary bonus.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, vision, HSA with employer contribution, and 401 (k) plan with employer contribution.
• Ancillary Benefits: Company-paid basic life & AD&D insurance, company-paid long-term disability, company-paid employee assistance program, accident insurance, and critical illness insurance.
• Perks: Monthly auto allowance, paid parking or public transportation costs, company-provided phone and laptop.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off,  paid sabbatical leave, paid bereavement leave, paid parental leave, free onsite fitness facility, and regular company and team outings.

Interview Process

Our process typically includes three conversations (phone and in-person) to ensure a mutual fit.

Pre-Employment Screening

Drug screen and background check required.

Other Items to Note 

• Gardner reserves the right to hire any individual without legal or financial obligation for unwanted solicitations. No agency emails, calls, or solicitations are accepted without a valid agreement. 
• This role is based in Minneapolis, MN, or Milwaukee, WI. We are open to relocation for the right candidate.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

This is an in-person position, located at our office downtown Minneapolis or Milwaukee, with most of your time spent in an office setting, collaborating with teammates and working on a computer. You’ll also visit active job sites to stay connected with the work in the field.  That may include walking on uneven ground, being outdoors in changing weather, or stepping into areas with dust or noise.  You’ll also travel to client sites, conferences, and other business meetings. The role involves typical office activities such as typing, writing, as well as sitting for stretches of time during meetings or travel. Occasionally, you may need to move light materials or equipment (up to about 20 pounds). We are committed to supporting individuals with disabilities and can provide reasonable accommodations to help you perform at your best.