Project Manager- Data Centers (Design and Construction)

Brailsford & Dunlavey (B&D), which now includes Project Management Advisors (PMA), is seeking a Project Manager to join our team in Chicago.

This role is based in Chicago, IL.

The Opportunity

An opportunity for an experienced project management professional who enjoys leading complex, technically sophisticated projects and collaborating with clients, design teams, contractors, consultants, and other project stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.

We are continuing to grow our capabilities in the data center space and are seeking a Project Manager to join our Chicago team. The ideal candidate will bring experience managing complex, technically sophisticated projects and will have an initial focus on supporting data center projects.

At Brailsford & Dunlavey (B&D), we lead the planning, development, and management of the places that shape and strengthen communitieswhere people live, learn, work, and innovate. B&D partners with institutions, municipalities, and organizations to deliver complex real estate and capital projects through strategic advisory and program management services across the full project lifecycle.

B&D recently joined forces with Project Management Advisors (PMA), bringing together two nationally recognized leaders in program management and real estate advisory services. Together, the combined firm offers expanded capabilities across industries and end-to-end project deliveryfrom early-stage strategy through design, construction, and occupancy.

As a Project Manager, you will lead a wide variety of complex projects from planning and design through construction and closeout, with an initial focus on data center projects. You will serve as a trusted advisor to clients and a key liaison among owners, architects, engineers, contractors, consultants, and other project stakeholders. You will oversee project budgets, schedules, procurement, documentation, and delivery activities while proactively identifying risks and opportunities and ensuring alignment with client goals.

How You'll Contribute

Work on projects from early-stage planning through project completion, ensuring alignment with client goals, budgets, schedules, and quality expectations

Establish strong partnerships with clients and serve as a key liaison between owners, architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants

Review and evaluate project requirements, program goals, and design solutions to ensure alignment with owner objectives

Initiate and manage procurement efforts for design, construction, and consultant services

Draft, review, communicate, negotiate, and manage contractual documents for design, construction, and consultant professionals

Develop, maintain, and monitor project budgets, schedules, and web-based project controls while identifying potential risks and opportunities

Analyze budget and schedule impacts and provide recommendations to support project financial objectives

Oversee the development and review of architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, and bid documents

Establish, lead, and document project meetings, ensuring clear communication and alignment among stakeholders

Provide regular project updates to clients, city officials, architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants while proactively identifying issues and solutions

Anticipate potential changes to project budgets and schedules and provide recommendations to mitigate risks and maintain project objectives

Coordinate value engineering exercises and evaluate alternatives with ownership teams

Coordinate with architects and project teams to monitor contractor and vendor activities and verify compliance with design specifications, schedules, and quality standards

Support contract administration activities, including contracts, purchase orders, and progress payment documentation

Observe and report on construction progress, project risks, and construction-related issues

Manage project closeout activities and ensure successful project completion

Support PMAs business development efforts by participating in networking opportunities, proposal development, and client interviews

What We're Looking For

5+ years of experience in project management, construction, real estate development, architecture, engineering, or related fields, with experience managing data center, mission-critical, technology, or other technically complex projects preferred

Familiarity with data center environments, mission-critical infrastructure, MEP systems, and the unique scheduling and coordination requirements associated with data center development and construction is a plus

Bachelors degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate Development, Urban Planning, or a related field

Demonstrated experience managing project budgets, schedules, procurement activities, and project controls

Strong understanding of design and construction processes, including architectural drawings, engineering documents, bidding, and contract administration

Experience coordinating and managing architects, engineers, contractors, consultants, and other project stakeholders

Ability to analyze project data, identify risks, and develop practical solutions to keep projects moving forward

Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate with clients and project teams

Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining strong attention to detail and organization

What Sets You Apart

You are a confident project leader who can independently manage projects while building trusted client relationships

You have experience delivering data center, mission-critical, or other highly technical projects and understand the importance of reliability, schedule, quality, and operational performance

You communicate clearly, professionally, and proactively with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams

You have strong business judgment and the ability to anticipate challenges before they impact project goals

You are highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage complex project information, budgets, and schedules

You enjoy solving problems, developing solutions, and keeping projects moving forward in dynamic environments

You are comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands-on project execution

You demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and accountability in all interactions

You thrive in collaborative environments and enjoy partnering with diverse stakeholder groups

Apply Today!

To get started, our application process includes a resume, an optional (recommended) cover letter, and a short set of essential questions. We look forward to getting to know you!

This role's target base annual salary range is currently $100,000- $150,000. Pay scales are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of several factors unique to each candidate, including, but not limited to, job-related skills, relevant education, experience, certifications, candidate abilities, and pay relative to other team members.

The company benefits listed above are a summary of the benefits. Specific details, availability, and eligibility requirements apply in accordance with company policies.

Brailsford & Dunlavey Inc. is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc. participates in E-Verify.