Project Manager

The Critical Utility / Preconstruction Project Manager is responsible for leading preconstruction efforts and coordinating critical utility infrastructure planning (power, water, and other essential services) for mission-critical and complex commercial projects. This role bridges design, engineering, utility providers, and field operations to ensure projects are set up for successful execution from the earliest planning stages through transition to construction. The ideal candidate has a strong background in preconstruction management with specific experience navigating utility coordination for critical facilities such as data centers, healthcare, or industrial/manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

Preconstruction Leadership

• Lead preconstruction planning efforts including scope development, budgeting, scheduling, and constructability reviews
• Coordinate with design teams, engineers, and owners during design development to ensure alignment between design intent and constructability
• Develop and manage preconstruction schedules, tracking long-lead procurement items and critical path milestones
• Prepare and present conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates at various design phases
• Support the RFP/proposal process, including scope clarifications, value engineering, and bid packaging

Critical Utility Coordination

• Serve as primary point of contact for coordinating with utility providers (electric, water, gas, telecom) on service capacity, interconnection agreements, and infrastructure upgrades
• Manage utility applications, easements, permitting, and approval timelines required for critical infrastructure
• Identify and mitigate risks related to utility capacity constraints, lead times, and regulatory requirements early in project lifecycle
• Coordinate with engineering teams on power distribution, backup/redundancy systems, and other mission-critical infrastructure requirements
• Track and manage long-lead utility equipment procurement (transformers, switchgear, generators, etc.)

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with project executives, superintendents, and self-perform trade teams (including Data One Electric) to ensure smooth transition from preconstruction to execution
• Collaborate with legal and risk management on utility agreements and contracts
• Communicate project status, risks, and utility milestones to internal leadership and client stakeholders
• Participate in progress meetings, OAC (Owner-Architect-Contractor) meetings, and utility provider coordination calls

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain comprehensive documentation of utility coordination activities, approvals, and agreements
• Track budget and schedule performance throughout the preconstruction phase
• Prepare reports and presentations for internal leadership and client review