Project Manager

Project Manager

Manages the programming, design, and construction of capital projects of varying size/complexity under the supervision of leadership. As a Project Manager the primary responsibility will be to provide comprehensive project management for large complex projects, or to multiple smaller projects. This individual is highly skilled in all aspects of project management services and is expected to be able to lead a project of any size and complexity. Projects may be on either or both campuses (Evanston and Chicago/Streeterville). The role will support the department's mission and values by exhibiting inclusiveness, respect, initiative, collaboration, innovation, and accountability. The incumbent will strive to provide excellent service when performing job responsibilities and will practice safe work procedures, and follow safety rules at all times. Jobsite Conditions: Exposure to weather (hot and cold, wind), uneven/unimproved ground conditions, ladder and scaffolding access, stairs, ability to don/doff basic PPE (hardhat, safety glasses, ear protection), etc. Hours of Work: Certain construction operations (utility shutdowns, blackout tests) are scheduled for early morning to reduce impacts on campus activities.

Specific Responsibilities:

• PRE-DESIGN: Facilitates the gathering of program information from faculty, staff, facilities personnel, and University management staff to develop the program requirements for University projects. Develops budgets, schedules, and cashflow forecast for assigned projects. Updates as necessary throughout project lifecycle.
• DESIGN: Prepares and issues formal Requests for Qualifications/Proposals for architectural and engineering services. Manages the selection of professional consultants, architects, and engineers. Prepares and negotiates consultant agreements. Manages the work of consultant architects and engineers in translating the user requirements for University projects into architectural and engineering design. Lead design meetings with University users, architects, and engineers. Keeps leadership informed of project progress (schedule and budget) and manages payments to consultants. Reviews architectural and engineering drawings at various stages of design (schematic design, design development and construction documents) to assure that University functional and technical programmatic requirements and standards are met. Coordinates review by Operations Shop Supervisors, Risk Management, Office of Research Safety, etc. Prepares presentations for staff and leadership. Coordinates preliminary presentations to regulatory agencies.
• BIDDING/PROCUREMENT: Solicits receives, tabulates, and reviews proposals from prospective contractors. Reviews with design team and other parties. Makes recommendation for award. Prepares contracts for signature, in consultation with insurance and legal counsel. Coordinate purchase of equipment and furnishings for University construction projects to ensure that correct products are purchased on a timely basis to meet project schedules.
• CONSTRUCTION: Serves as liaison between University departments and the contractor to assure that the impact of the contractor's activities on departmental operations are minimized. Manages the construction process to assure that contractual obligations are met. Reviews project communication to protect university interests. Manages owner-initiated changes to limit impact on schedule and budget. Develops construction phasing plans to minimize impacts on departmental operations. Coordinates with Shop supervisors, Risk Management, Office of Research Safety, Northwestern IT, University Safety and Security, etc. Monitors construction progress to ensure schedule adherence. Promptly reviews and approves applications for payment and prepares cash flow forecasts.
• OCCUPANCY/TURNOVER: Manages occupancy activities such as furniture installation, equipment hook-up, data activation, and move-in. Manages prompt turnover of closeout documentation. Assists Facilities Finance in closing project account.
• OTHER/MISC: Prepares budget estimates for proposed future programs/projects as requested. Assists in maintaining Design Guidelines, University Construction Specifications, and contract templates based on project experience, new products/technologies, and best practices. Performs other duties as requested by the Director of Design & Construction. Miscellaneous Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ability to build and manage diverse project teams.
• Ability to produce concise, well written status reports.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and multiple responsibilities in order to provide a high level of client service.
• Working knowledge of Building Codes, Life Safety Codes & ADA standards.
• Working proficiency in preparing and reviewing construction administration documentation (shop drawings/submittals, requests for information, change proposals, etc.).
• Working proficiency using the Microsoft Office suite of software.
• Basic knowledge of construction/project accounting standards.
• Basic knowledge of project financial monitoring, tracking and reporting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 7+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience with complex regulatory approval processes.
• Master's degree in architecture, engineering, a construction-related program, or similar area of study.
• Professional licensure in field.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholder groups, including professional consultants, building/maintenance trades, and laypersons.
• LEED credential.
• Participation in professional or trade organizations (AIA, ACEC, CSI, SCUP, etc.).

Preferred Competencies:

• Basic proficiency with building information modeling systems.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Project, Primavera, or similar scheduling software.
• Basic knowledge of OSHA regulations in a facilities environment (construction or general industries).