Senior Project Manager, Building Operational Readiness and Activation

Victoria University; Toronto; On-site; CAD 92,000 - 116,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Canadian university in Toronto seeks a Senior Project Manager for Building Operational Readiness. This role involves planning the transition of new buildings from construction to full operation, ensuring all systems function perfectly. Ideal candidates will have at least 8 years of project management experience in similar roles. Competitive salary and full-time schedule offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of project management experience with focus on building commissioning.
• Proven experience in leading procurement processes and managing contracts.
• Strong knowledge of building systems such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate the transition of facilities from construction to operations.
• Oversee multi-phase transitions ensuring stakeholder alignment.
• Act as the primary liaison with clients and stakeholders.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder collaboration

Change management

Communication skills

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Project Management Professional (PMP)

LEED Accredited Professional

Tools

Microsoft Project

AutoCAD

BIM

Revit

Job description

Overview

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Professionals / Managers & Confidentials - Office of the Chief Administrative Officer and Bursar

Posting Date : August 8, 2025

Closing Date : August 22, 2025

Position Title : Senior Project Manager, Building Operational Readiness and Activation

Department : Office of the CAO and Bursar, Major Capital Project Management and Planning

Appointment Type : Term, 18-months

Classification : PM - 4

Salary : Target hiring range : $92,460.55 - $115,576.36- Range maximum : $143,924.80

Schedule : Full time, Monday - Friday

Please Note : This exciting 18-month contract opportunity will be dedicated to advancing the collaborative planning and delivery for the commissioning and operationalization of Trinity College's Lawson Centre for Sustainability. The Lawson Centre is a landmark building in downtown Toronto, which supports students and enhances academic programming, including boundary-pushing sustainability design, 342 residence beds, and vibrant academic, community and outdoor spaces. Working closely with the Trinity College leadership team to develop and achieve key milestones for the Lawson Centre, project direction will be provided by the Office of the Bursar and Chief Administrative Officer, Trinity College, with functional reporting via Victoria University. This approach is guided by a shared commitment to collaboration and partnership between Victoria University and Trinity College (in the University of Toronto).

Victoria University is committed to equity in access to employment and a diverse and inclusive workplace. The University encourages applications from racialized persons / persons of colour, women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas. If you require accessibility accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department [e-mail]

Position Summary

Reporting to the Associate Director of Major Capital Project Management and Planning, the Senior Project Manager (SPM) is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing the activation and transition of newly constructed or renovated institutional facilities from construction to full operational status, ensuring that all systems, infrastructure, and components are installed, tested, and functioning in accordance with design specifications, safety codes, and institutional quality standards. The SPM oversees the multi-phase transition from construction to full operational status, working closely with construction teams, facilities, operations, resident and departmental units to ensure that all systems, services, and stakeholders are aligned for a seamless handover and occupancy. The SPM leads operational planning, stakeholder engagement, risk mitigation, and post-occupancy evaluation to ensure long-term building performance and user satisfaction.

A key responsibility is to plan, coordinate, and manage commissioning schedules, facilitate commissioning meetings, oversee system start-up and functional testing, support procurement-related processes (e.g., Requests for Proposal (RFP)), and collaborate with relevant teams to ensure all documentation and training materials are completed and received. The role includes post-occupancy support, site visits, and follow-up testing, and assisting institutional staff in resolving operational issues. The SPM acts as the primary liaison with clients and stakeholders, including facilities, operations, IT, and security subject matter experts, to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to operational activation. This includes facilitating the transition from construction to operations and ensuring all documentation, warranties, and service agreements are in place.

A key responsibility of the SPM is to ensure that the operations team is equipped with the necessary tools, skills, and documentation to effectively operate and maintain the newly completed facility. The SPM also facilitates training for building users on system operation and maintenance, identifies risks, develops operational plans, and ensures the institutional team is prepared for long-term success. In addition, the SPM supports the Associate Director in the planning, design, and delivery of major capital projects of varying sizes and complexities on the Victoria University campus at the University of Toronto. A strong background in institutional construction project management, building systems commissioning, stakeholder engagement, and operational readiness is essential for success in this role.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in engineering with a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation or a degree in a related technical field.
• Professional certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP).

Experience

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive project management experience, with at least 5 years specifically focused on building commissioning and operational readiness, preferably within the higher education or institutional sectors.
• Proven effective project and change management leadership experience, with a strong commitment to clients, collaboration, accountability and results.
• Proficiency in reviewing design drawings prepared by licensed engineers and architects, with a comprehensive understanding of legislative and ethical frameworks governing these professions.
• Proven experience with leading and supporting procurement processes, such as Requests for Proposal (RFP) and vendor selection, and developing, implementing and managing 3rd party service agreements.
• Experience in contract administration and compliance during construction phases, across various delivery methods.
• In-depth technical knowledge of building systems, operations and infrastructure, including HVAC, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, IT, security, lighting controls, emergency power systems and building automation and management systems
• Strong understanding of design and construction practices, commissioning processes and regulatory requirements.
• Working knowledge of sustainable building and operating standards, and the process of obtaining green certification for buildings.
• Knowledge of and commitment to universal design principles.
• Demonstrated experience in system start-up, balancing, functional testing, troubleshooting, and operation and maintenance procedures.
• Familiarity with construction management and design-build delivery methods. Knowledge of Health & Safety regulations and legislation, including OHSA and WHMIS.
• Experience in handling sensitive and confidential information with a high degree of professionalism.

Skills

• Exceptional project and change management skills from design through occupancy on complex building projects, including communication and stakeholder collaboration and buy-in.
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel and computer-based project scheduling / management experience (e.g. MS Project). A working knowledge of computerized drawing software (i.e., BIM, Revit and AutoCAD) is required.
• Competence in data management tools and project management software relevant to construction and facilities operations.
• Skilled in drafting and managing procurement and contractual documentation, including Requests for Proposal, 3rd party service agreements, etc.

Others

• Knowledge of federal, provincial, and municipal government legislation pertaining to building codes and approvals.
• Proven ability to coordinate multiple project schedules, manage competing priorities, and deliver results under tight deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships at all levels within the University and with external stakeholders
• Strong organizational and stakeholder management skills. Ability to lead cross-functional teams and maintain alignment among diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills, with experience in conflict resolution and diplomacy.
• Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis capabilities, particularly in new building systems.
• Proficiency in budget and schedule management.
• Sound understanding of procurement practices and procedures.
• Capacity to exhibit patience, tact, confidentiality, diplomacy, and discretion.
• Proven ability to lead and work effectively in a collaborative team setting.
• Acts with a high degree of initiative, good judgement, professionalism and diplomacy.
• Knowledge of post-secondary residence / housing operations would be an asset.

Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and fostering a respectful and collaborative learning and working environment.

How to Apply

TO APPLY :

Internal candidates are asked to submit their applications online by logging onto Dayforce. Please visit https://www.vicu.utoronto.ca/careers/ and click Internal Opportunities to login and apply.

External Candidates may proceed by clicking "Apply" above.

Victoria University thanks all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.