Assistant Project Manager

INNOVATIVE Inc.; Waynesboro (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

INNOVATIVE Inc. is seeking a skilled Project Manager in Waynesboro, VA, to lead large-scale refrigeration projects from inception to commissioning. This role emphasizes on-time project execution within budget and maintaining high safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate possesses a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and 5-7 years of relevant experience.

The position requires strong leadership, negotiation skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Working with diverse teams, you will ensure client satisfaction and compliance with safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience managing large-scale industrial refrigeration projects.
• Experience managing cross-functional teams of engineers, technicians, and subcontractors.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to manage client expectations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage large-scale refrigeration construction projects from inception to commissioning.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and ensure clear communication.
• Proactively identify and manage project risks to ensure compliance with regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Negotiation skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

Project management software

CAD

Job description

Innovative is built by people who take ownership of their work and pride in thesolutions they deliver. From engineering and fabrication to installation and service, ourteams work together to support critical industries that cannot afford downtime. Wefocus on building meaningful careers and strong teams.

Details:

Salary: Dependent of experience

Posted: 2026-06-04

Employee Type: full-time

Experience Required: 3 Years

Travel Required: No

Description:

Job Role:We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Project Manager to lead large-scale refrigeration projects from inception to commissioning. In this pivotal role, you will ensure projects are executed on time, within budget, and to the highest safety and quality standards, all while meeting customer specifications. Your leadership and organizational expertise will be key to successfully managing multiple projects simultaneously and maintaining strong client relationships.

Key Duties:

Lead and manage large-scale refrigeration construction projects from contract award through to commissioning and final punch list completion.

Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, including owners and general contractors, ensuring clear communication and alignment of project expectations.

Review and manage project contracts to ensure compliance with scope, terms, and conditions.

Collaborate with diverse trades and teams to guarantee projects stay on track in terms of quality, budget, and timelines.

Develop and maintain detailed project schedules that align with overall contractor timelines.

Oversee staffing needs and manage procurement of materials, tools, and equipment, ensuring on-time delivery to project sites.

Build and nurture strong relationships with both national and local vendors to ensure cost-effective procurement of materials.

Manage project scope and handle change orders effectively, maintaining customer satisfaction while controlling costs.

Support engineering teams during the design phase to ensure alignment with project goals and milestones.

Coordinate with purchasing departments to monitor material deliveries and schedules.

Proactively identify and manage project risks to ensure compliance with relevant local, state, and federal regulations, particularly concerning ammonia and CO2-based refrigeration systems.

Maintain meticulous records of all project aspects, including contracts, change orders, schedules, and budgets, providing regular updates to leadership and clients.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME preferred), Construction Management, or a related field. Equivalent experience in construction project management will be considered.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience managing large-scale industrial refrigeration or related projects (e.g., HVAC, commercial refrigeration, or heavy industrial construction).
• Proven leadership abilities, with experience managing cross-functional teams of engineers, technicians, and subcontractors.
• Strong negotiation skills to ensure cost-effective procurement and the ability to solve complex issues independently within project constraints.
• The ability to make independent business decision within budget, seeking guidance only when dealing with exceptionally difficult issues
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple ongoing projects simultaneously.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to manage client expectations and provide clear updates on project progress.
• Proficiency in project management software and familiarity with CAD and engineering drawings.

Preferences:

• Expertise in ammonia and CO2-based refrigeration systems, with a deep understanding of relevant safety and environmental regulations.
• Professional Engineering License.
• Ability & willingness to travel to construction sites nationwide.