Sr. Construction Project Manager

Summary Our client is a boutique, full-service real estate advisory and construction management firm supporting complex development projects across Southern California. Their expertise spans the full project lifecycle—from early-stage planning and entitlement through design, procurement, and construction execution.With a team comprised of highly credentialed professionals across engineering, project management, and construction disciplines, the firm has built a strong reputation for delivering high-impact public sector projects, particularly within large, multi-stakeholder environments. They are currently seeking a highly experienced Project Manager to support major capital improvement programs in collaboration with one of the largest public school districts in the region.This is an opportunity to step into a highly visible role requiring deep familiarity with large-scale, publicly funded construction programs and the ability to navigate complex institutional frameworks similar to LAUSD. Duties & ResponsibilitiesLead and manage multiple large-scale construction projects within a public agency or school district environment, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and scheduleAct as a key liaison between district representatives, internal leadership, consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodiesOversee and evaluate construction progress against baseline schedules, identifying risks and implementing corrective actions as neededReview, negotiate, and manage change orders with a strong understanding of downstream impacts to cost and timelinesProvide comprehensive contract administration oversight for architects, engineers, and consulting partnersMonitor and manage project financials, including budgets, forecasts, cost controls, and payment applicationsResolve complex construction-related issues, disputes, and claims in alignment with public sector requirements and standardsSupport procurement and bid processes, including development of bid packages and evaluation of contractor proposalsCoordinate extensively with internal departments such as Environmental Health & Safety, Facilities Planning, Asset Management, Inspection, and Maintenance & OperationsEnsure strict compliance with public agency requirements, including documentation, reporting, and audit readinessProvide direction and oversight to Owner’s Authorized Representatives (OARs) and project support staffContribute to the development and implementation of internal processes and best practices to enhance program deliveryQualifications & RequirementsMinimum of 17 years of full-time professional experience in project and/or construction managementAt least 5 years of experience managing large capital programs, with individual project values exceeding $50 million (non-cumulative)Proven track record delivering projects within public school districts, higher education systems, or similarly complex public works environments (strong preference for LAUSD or comparable districts)Demonstrated expertise navigating large, multi-layered organizations with strict compliance, reporting, and stakeholder coordination requirementsStrong working knowledge of:Public sector contract administrationCost control, budgeting, and financial oversight within funded programsCPM scheduling and project controlsClaims avoidance, dispute resolution, and change managementQuality assurance and regulatory complianceBachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or related fieldOR equivalent combination of education and extensive industry experienceAbility to obtain Certified Construction Manager (CCM) certification within one year if not already heldHighly Preferred Experience:Direct experience working with LAUSD Facilities Services Division or similarly structured organizationsFamiliarity with Division of the State Architect (DSA) processes, documentation, and approvalsExperience coordinating with departments such as OEHS, A/E Technical Support, Inspection Units, and Asset Management within large districtsExperience with Design-Build project deliveryProficiency with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools and workflowsExposure to LEED-certified or high-performance building programsPreferred Licenses & Credentials:Active Certified Construction Manager (CCM) designationLicensed Architect or Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of CaliforniaKey Attributes:Executive-level communication skills with the ability to interface effectively across all levels of a public agencyStrong leadership presence with experience directing large, cross-functional project teamsHighly organized with exceptional attention to detail in documentation-heavy environmentsAdept at navigating bureaucracy, approvals, and layered decision-making structuresProactive, solutions-driven mindset with the ability to anticipate and mitigate project risks