Assistant Project Manager

Dakota Matting and Environmental Solutions; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

Employee Assistance Program

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Eight paid holidays

Career growth opportunities

Diversity & inclusion

Job summary

Dakota Matting & Environmental Solutions seeks an Assistant Project Manager to oversee construction projects from start to finish, split between the office and active job sites. You will support Project Managers in keeping projects on schedule and on budget while building strong client relationships and coordinating cross-functional teams.

The role offers exposure to estimating, bidding, execution, and closeout, with opportunities to advance as the company grows.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Business Admin, Engineering, or related field.
• Excellent interpersonal communication with internal teams, contractors, and clients to define goals and deliverables.
• Strong ability to foster relationships with clients and stakeholders for long-term partnerships.
• Proactive mindset with problem solving and project execution skills.
• Knowledge of construction estimating and takeoffs; ability to learn estimating software.
• Proven ability to track progress, maintain records, and manage documents efficiently.
• Proficiency with project management tools like MS Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Assist Project Managers in planning and execution of projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define requirements and objectives.
• Prepare timelines, budgets, and status reports to monitor progress.
• Update stakeholders on project developments and maintain clear communication.
• Monitor progress and address issues impacting timelines or budgets.
• Assist with preparing proposals, contracts, and project documentation.
• Support planning and coordinating all aspects of construction with engineers, contractors, and subcontractors.
• Gather data for plans and drawings and facilitate team communication.
• Present project status reports to senior management and clients.
• Adapt to changing requirements and support various tasks.
• Prepare project estimates analyzing scope, materials, labor, and equipment.
• Perform detailed takeoffs from drawings to support bidding and procurement.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Client relations

Project coordination

Problem solving

Proposal support

Software proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Project

Estimating software

Takeoff software

MS Office

Job description

INTRODUCING DAKOTA MATTING & ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS: WHO WE ARE

With vast capital investments within the Electrical Utility Industry, Dakota Matting & Environmental Solutions stands proud in contributing to our nation’s infrastructure expansion. Through innovative access solutions, coupled with an unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility, we play a pivotal role in fostering the sustainable growth of essential utilities.

As a woman-owned and minority-owned business, we bring a unique perspective and competitive edge to the industry. We have the ability to attract and retain top talent due to our collaborative work environment and rewarding culture. As one of the very few independently owned and operated companies in this field, we are able to make common sense decisions that always put our clients first, and this is the reputation that we have garnered.

As we are continuously growing, we are looking for an Assistant Project Manager to join our passionate team.

POSITION DETAILS

As an Assistant Project Manager, you'll assist in overseeing construction projects from start to finish while helping build strong customer relationships as our business expands. Splitting your time between the office and active job sites, you'll support Project Managers in keeping projects on schedule, on budget, and aligned with client expectations — while gaining hands-on exposure to every phase of the project lifecycle, from estimating and bidding through execution and closeout.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work closely with Project Managers to assist in the planning and execution of projects.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure project requirements and objectives are clearly defined and understood.
• Prepare comprehensive project timelines, budgets, and status reports to monitor progress and ensure adherence to project milestones.
• Regularly update stakeholders on project developments and maintain clear and transparent communication.
• Monitor project progress and identify and address any issues that may impact project timelines or budgets.
• Assist with the preparation of project proposals, contracts, and other project-relevant documentation.
• Provide support in planning, directing, and coordinating all aspects of the construction project, including working with engineers, contractors, and subcontractors.
• Collaborate with other Dakota Matting employees in gathering data for development of plans and drawings.
• Facilitate effective communication between team members, stakeholders, and clients.
• Assist in preparing and presenting project status reports to senior management and clients.
• Adapt to changing project requirements and support various project-related tasks as assigned.
• Prepare project estimates by analyzing project scope, materials, labor, and equipment requirements to support accurate bidding and project planning.
• Perform detailed takeoffs from project drawings and specifications to support bidding, procurement, and project execution.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

At Dakota, we take on and execute some of the most challenging access projects in the country. To help us successfully execute our projects, we are looking for an Assistant Project Manager with these qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field; applicable years of experience may be applied for degree requirement.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills with a strong ability communicate with internal teams, contractors, subcontractors, and clients to ensure clarity on project goals and deliverables.
• Skilled at fostering strong relationships with clients and stakeholders to enhance long-term business partnerships.
• Proactive mindset and strong tenacity in problem solving, project execution, and overcoming challenges.
• Working knowledge of construction estimating and performing quantity takeoffs, with the ability to learn industry-standard estimating and takeoff software.
• Proven ability to meticulously track project progress, manage documentation efficiently, and maintain accurate records.
• Proficient in project management software and tools such as Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to adapt and learn in an ever-changing environment.

THE GREAT BENEFITS OF WORKING HERE

The Heart and Soul of Dakota are our people. We want to provide you with the best possible employee experience, so you can be happy and effective within your job. Some of the great benefits of joining our team include the following:

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Your health and well-being matter to us. As part of our commitment to your health and financial security, we offer comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, an Employee Assistance Program, and a retirement plan.
• Paid Vacation and Holidays: We offer paid time off (PTO) so you can relax, recharge, and maintain a healthy work–life balance. In addition, the Company observes eight paid holidays each year for you to enjoy with family and friends.
• Fast Growing Company with Great Career Growth Opportunities: Dakota is a fast-growing company that offers excellent career growth opportunities. As we continue to expand and thrive, you’ll have the chance to advance your career and take on new challenges.
• Work with a Diverse and Inclusive Team: Dakota Matting prides itself on fostering a diverse and inclusive work culture. This diverse exposure will enhance your skillset, broaden your expertise, and position you as a well-rounded professional.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Dakota Matting & Environmental Solutions provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.