Project Manager - Data Center Builds

Rightech

  • Chicago, IL
  • 18 days ago

    Highlights

    This role oversees all aspects of project execution including planning, scheduling, budgeting, team coordination, client communication, and risk mitigation to ensure on-time, on-budget, and high-quality outcomes. They act as the primary liaison between clients, internal teams, and subcontractors while driving execution across mechanical, electrical, structural, and commissioning scopes.

    Numbers & Facts

    LocationChicago, IL

    Description

    Project Manager (Chicago)

    Summary / Objective

    The Project Manager is responsible for leading the successful delivery of complex mission-critical projects from start to finish. This role oversees all aspects of project execution including planning, scheduling, budgeting, team coordination, client communication, and risk mitigation to ensure on-time, on-budget, and high-quality outcomes.

    Project Managers are hands-on leaders and strategic thinkers. They act as the primary liaison between clients, internal teams, and subcontractors while driving execution across mechanical, electrical, structural, and commissioning scopes. This is a pivotal role for someone who thrives on building strong teams, solving complex challenges, and delivering results in a fast-paced, high-impact environment.

    Essential Functions

    1. Project Planning & Execution

    • Lead end-to-end project delivery for mission-critical infrastructure, data center builds, and specialty construction projects.

    • Develop comprehensive project plans, schedules, budgets, and resource allocations.

    • Define project scope, goals, and deliverables in alignment with client requirements and company objectives.

    • Ensure all work is performed in compliance with specifications, codes, safety standards, and quality expectations.

    • Manage project closeout activities including punch list completion, turnover documentation, commissioning support, and lessons-learned reviews.

    2. Team Leadership & Collaboration

    • Coordinate cross-functional project teams including mechanical, electrical, structural, controls, commissioning, and field operations personnel.

    • Mentor, coach, and support project engineers, field leads, and other team members to drive performance and professional growth.

    • Foster a collaborative project environment that emphasizes communication, accountability, and continuous improvement.

    3. Client & Stakeholder Management

    • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, building trust through proactive communication, transparency, and responsiveness.

    • Manage expectations, provide regular status updates, and resolve issues to ensure alignment on project goals and outcomes.

    • Represent Compu Dynamics in meetings, presentations, and negotiations with clients, partners, and vendors.

    4. Risk, Budget & Performance Management

    • Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks; develop contingency plans to address potential challenges.

    • Oversee project budgets, monitor financial performance, track cost forecasts, and report on variances.

    • Manage procurement activities, vendor negotiations, contracts, and change orders in coordination with internal stakeholders.

    • Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress and ensure adherence to safety, quality, and schedule.

    5. Process Improvement & Reporting

    • Facilitate project meetings, prepare meeting minutes, and track action items.

    • Maintain accurate and organized project documentation including drawings, submittals, RFIs, permits, and as-builts.

    • Contribute to refining project delivery standards, processes, and tools to improve efficiency and consistency across the organization.

    Competencies

    • Entrepreneurial Mindset Takes initiative, embraces ownership, and thrives in ambiguity.

    • Execution Excellence Delivers results by prioritizing, organizing, and driving tasks forward.

    • Strategic Thinking Balances big-picture vision with detailed execution.

    • Collaboration & Influence Builds trust, fosters teamwork, and drives alignment across diverse stakeholders.

    • Adaptability & Resilience Stays agile in dynamic conditions and pivots effectively when priorities shift.

    • Integrity & Accountability Follows through on commitments and takes ownership of results.

    • Client Focus Anticipates client needs, builds strong relationships, and delivers exceptional service.


    Required Education and Experience

    • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.

    • 5+ years of project management experience in mission-critical, data center, or large-scale infrastructure construction.

    • Strong working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, structural, and commissioning systems (HVAC, power distribution, cooling, controls).

    • Proven track record of delivering complex, multi-discipline projects on time and within budget.

    • Proficiency with project management software (MS Project, Primavera, etc.) and standard business tools (Excel, PowerPoint).

    • Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

    • Willingness and ability to travel to project sites as needed.

    • Commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.


    Preferred Qualifications

    • PMP, PMI-ACP, or equivalent project management certification.

    • Experience in cleared, government, or high-security environments.

    • Experience leading projects across multiple geographic markets or remote sites.

    • Familiarity with modular and prefabricated data center systems.

    • Background in hiring, mentoring, and developing project teams.

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