Senior Project Manager - Construction

Job Description

Job Description

Senior Project Manager – Construction

Location: Chicago, Illinois
Industry: Commercial Construction / General Contracting
Employment Type: Full-Time

About the Opportunity

We are partnering with a well-established and highly respected construction firm in the Chicago area to identify an experienced Senior Project Manager to join its team.

Our client has earned a strong reputation for delivering exceptional construction projects through technical expertise, quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to outstanding client service. The organization provides a comprehensive range of construction services, including preconstruction, general contracting, construction management, and specialized construction solutions.

With a diverse portfolio of projects spanning new construction, complex renovations, and restoration work, the company offers an opportunity to lead meaningful projects while working alongside experienced construction professionals.

This position is ideal for a proven construction leader who thrives in a collaborative environment, takes ownership of project outcomes, and enjoys building strong relationships with clients, architects, subcontractors, and internal teams.

Position Summary

The Senior Project Manager will provide overall leadership and management of assigned construction projects, ensuring successful execution from initial planning through final completion.

This individual will be responsible for coordinating all aspects of project delivery, including budgeting, scheduling, subcontractor management, financial oversight, quality control, and client relationships.

The Senior Project Manager will work closely with executive leadership, project superintendents, and other construction professionals to ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with client expectations.

In addition to overseeing project execution, this individual will contribute to business development efforts and play an important role in mentoring and developing other members of the project management team.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management & Leadership

• Provide day-to-day leadership and oversight of assigned construction projects, ensuring successful execution and client satisfaction.
• Manage all phases of project delivery, including planning, coordination, scheduling, budgeting, construction, and closeout.
• Ensure projects comply with established safety, quality, and operational standards.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive project schedules, monitor progress, and ensure adherence to critical milestones.
• Identify potential project challenges and implement proactive solutions to maintain project performance.
• Collaborate with internal leadership to ensure project objectives align with organizational expectations.

Financial & Contract Management

• Oversee the financial performance of assigned projects, including budgeting, cost control, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Prepare and manage subcontractor scopes of work, contracts, and purchase agreements.
• Ensure compliance with contractual obligations, payment terms, and financial requirements.
• Review and manage project change orders, work orders, and contract modifications.
• Maintain accurate financial and project records using construction management software, including CMiC or similar platforms.
• Monitor project receivables, payment applications, and overall financial performance.
• Provide regular financial updates and project performance reports to executive leadership.

Client Relations & Business Development

• Establish and maintain strong professional relationships with clients, architects, consultants, and other project stakeholders.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for project-related communications and coordination.
• Lead regular project meetings with owners, architects, and other stakeholders, including preparing agendas, documenting discussions, and tracking action items.
• Maintain open communication with clients to ensure expectations are understood and project objectives are achieved.
• Participate in business development activities to support existing client relationships and pursue new opportunities.
• Assist with requests for proposals (RFPs), estimating, logistics planning, project interviews, and prospective client presentations.
• Represent the organization professionally throughout the project lifecycle.

Construction Operations & Field Coordination

• Work closely with Project Superintendents to coordinate construction activities and address field-related challenges.
• Conduct regular jobsite visits to monitor construction progress, quality, and safety compliance.
• Coordinate subcontractors, suppliers, and field personnel to ensure efficient project execution.
• Review construction drawings, specifications, sketches, and other technical documentation.
• Monitor subcontractor and supplier performance both on-site and off-site.
• Review prefabricated materials and equipment prior to delivery and following installation, as appropriate.
• Ensure construction activities meet established quality standards and applicable safety requirements.
• Collaborate with field leadership to resolve scheduling conflicts, construction issues, and resource constraints.

Project Documentation & Closeout

• Oversee project documentation and document control procedures throughout the construction lifecycle.
• Ensure proper organization and maintenance of contracts, RFIs, submittals, meeting records, change orders, and payment applications.
• Monitor and coordinate required project approvals and documentation.
• Manage project closeout activities, including punch list completion, final inspections, and required sign-offs.
• Coordinate the completion of permits, certificates of occupancy, and other required documentation.
• Work with internal accounting and project teams to finalize billing, obtain lien waivers, and complete contractual closeout requirements.
• Ensure all project records are accurately maintained and properly archived.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to Project Managers, Assistant Project Managers, and Project Engineers.
• Support the professional growth and development of junior team members.
• Foster a collaborative and accountable team environment.
• Share technical knowledge, project management best practices, and lessons learned.
• Promote continuous improvement in project execution, communication, and operational efficiency.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant construction project management experience .
• Demonstrated experience managing construction projects from preconstruction through completion.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, scheduling, budgeting, estimating, and contract administration.
• Experience managing project financials, subcontractor agreements, change orders, and project documentation.
• Knowledge of construction project management and accounting software applications.
• Proven ability to develop and maintain relationships with clients, architects, subcontractors, and internal project teams.
• Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and maintain project performance in a fast-paced construction environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• LEED certification.
• Experience managing commercial construction, renovation, or complex building projects.
• Familiarity with CMiC construction management software.
• Experience participating in business development, estimating, and proposal presentations.
• Demonstrated experience mentoring or leading project management professionals.

Compensation & Benefits

Our client offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support employees' professional development, financial well-being, and work-life balance.

Compensation

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Eligibility for an annual performance-based bonus.
• Vehicle allowance.
• Cell phone stipend.

Health & Wellness

• Medical insurance.
• Dental insurance.
• Vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Disability coverage.
• Optional pet insurance.

Retirement & Financial Benefits

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.
• Flexible spending account options.

Paid Time Off & Work-Life Balance

• Generous paid time off.
• 11 paid holidays annually.
• Additional paid day off to celebrate your birthday.
• Two paid volunteer days annually.
• Opportunities to participate in company-sponsored volunteer and community service initiatives.

Professional Growth

• Opportunities for career advancement.
• Leadership and mentorship opportunities.
• Collaborative work environment with experienced construction professionals.
• Exposure to a diverse portfolio of challenging construction projects.

Final compensation will be determined based on relevant experience, education, technical expertise, certifications, market conditions, and business needs.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This is an opportunity to join an established construction organization that values technical excellence, strong client relationships, and the professional development of its employees.

As a Senior Project Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead significant construction projects, collaborate with experienced industry professionals, and make a meaningful impact on project outcomes.

The organization values individuals who demonstrate integrity, accountability, sound judgment, and a commitment to delivering exceptional results.

For an experienced construction professional seeking a leadership position with long-term growth potential, this role offers the opportunity to take on challenging projects while contributing to the continued success of a respected construction team.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing an inclusive and respectful workplace.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Apply Today

If you are an experienced construction project management professional who enjoys leading complex projects, developing strong client relationships, and mentoring high-performing teams, we encourage you to apply.

Qualified candidates are invited to submit their resumes for confidential consideration.

Additional information about the organization and opportunity will be shared with qualified candidates during the recruitment process.