Construction Project Manager (Mission Critical + Data Center)

Gardner Builders; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Gardner Builders in Minneapolis or Milwaukee seeks a seasoned Project Manager to lead complex construction efforts. You will drive project teams through all phases, maintain client and partner relationships, and represent Gardner’s hospitality-driven standard in proposals and market growth.

The role requires 5+ years of PM experience, a construction-management background, and fluency with LEAN processes and critical system knowledge. Expect multi-market work and relocation support where needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, construction engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of project management experience, preferably with a general contractor.
• Experience leading Mission Critical projects, including data centers.
• Familiarity with Last Planner System, LEAN Construction, and ASHRAE standards.
• Strong financial acumen and ability to manage budgets and cost reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead project teams through all phases from preconstruction to closeout.
• Build strong relationships with clients, trade partners, and design teams.
• Represent Gardner’s mission in proposals and market development.
• Manage owner contracts, subcontracts, and financial aspects including bidding and invoicing.
• Lead weekly project and procurement meetings and resolve issues quickly.
• Oversee closeout, punch lists, and final billing; drive growth through new opportunities.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Financial acumen

Lean construction

Education

Bachelor's degree in construction management

FE exam / EIT candidate

Tools

Procore

Microsoft Project

Outbuild

Bluebeam

Job description

At Gardner, commercial construction should feel as welcoming as it is professional. That’s why we don’t just build construction projects, we build relationships, rooted in hospitality. Our mission is to set the platinum standard for our clients, partners, and team members by delivering exceptional results while embodying our core values: passion, humility, excellence, empathy, and nimbleness. We bring a hospitality-driven approach to every project, ensuring every interaction is thoughtful, responsive, and human-centered.

You must be currently legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status, 0-1, TN, CPT, OPT, etc.). We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

This position calls Minneapolis, MN or Milwaukee, WI home. If you're not local but this role is speaking to you, don't let that stop you from applying. We're open to candidates from other markets and will offer relocation assistance for the right fit.

Who You Are

You’re a builder, leader, and trusted advisor who thrives in environments where relationships matter as much as results. You are motivated, proactive, and adaptable, with a track record of delivering highly technical projects where precision and communication are critical. You enjoy collaborating with designers, trade partners, and clients, and you bring both humility and confidence to your leadership style. You’re excited about growing Gardner’s Mission Critical market and are committed to providing platinum standard hospitality at every step of the project lifecycle.

You’re nimble. You can move, adapt, and lead in any environment, which means you're ready to work across more than one market focus. Alongside mission-critical work, you could find yourself contributing to Commercial Interiors, Education, Industrial, Healthcare, Historic Repositions, and Science & Technology projects. For you, that range isn't a stretch. It's how you build a career, not just buildings.

How You’ll Contribute

Project Leadership

• Lead project teams through all phases of construction, from preconstruction to closeout.
• Build strong, trust-based relationships with clients, trade partners, and design teams.
• Represent Gardner’s mission and vision in proposal presentations and market development efforts.

Project Execution

• Manage owner contracts, subcontracts, and financial aspects, including bidding, estimating, change orders, pay applications, and invoicing.
• Lead weekly project and procurement meetings to drive communication and alignment.
• Resolve project issues quickly and professionally, mobilizing the right resources as needed.

Closeout & Growth

• Ensure successful project closeout by overseeing punch list completion, implementing project closeout checklists, and final billing.
• Leverage existing relationships and generate project leads within the owner and design communities.
• Contribute to strategies for future market growth and execute on defined goals.

What Success Looks Like

You’ll know you’re succeeding when:

• Your projects consistently hit deadlines, budget goals, and quality standards.
• Clients feel heard, supported, and eager to work with Gardner Builders again.
• Your team trusts your leadership and grows under your mentorship.
• You’ve built a reputation for integrity, clear communication, and results.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in construction management, construction engineering, or similar discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of project management experience, preferably with a general contractor.
• Successful completion of the FE exam (EIT certification is a plus).
• Demonstrated experience leading Mission Critical projects, including data centers.
• Working knowledge of general contracting and project lifecycle management.
• Familiarity with the Last Planner System (LSP), LEAN Construction, and ASHRAE standards.
• Understanding of Mission Critical electrical and HVAC system components.
• Strong financial and business acumen, with the ability to confidently manage budgets, forecasting, and cost reporting.
• Skilled in estimating and technical writing, with a sharp attention to detail.
• Strong communicator, able to clearly convey information in verbal, written, and visual formats.
• A collaborative and humble approach, with a focus on finding solutions and supporting the team.
• Proficiency in construction management and scheduling tools such as Procore, Microsoft Project, Outbuild, and Bluebeam.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and make sound decisions independently in a fast-paced environment.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and adaptable, with an ability to stay one step ahead and pivot with purpose when needed.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a team-first mindset and a strong sense of accountability.
• Comfortable working with Apple devices and Google Workspace (or ability to learn).
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to maintain a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record.
• Willingness to travel outside the Twin Cities metro (please describe your expectations when applying).

What Will Set You Apart

• Proven track record of successfully delivering projects with Mission Critical systems.
• Strong technical expertise in highly complex electrical and HVAC systems.
• A hospitality-driven mindset.

Why Join Gardner Builders?

We are proud to be recognized as:

• 7-Time “Best Places to Work” by Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal
• 6-Time “Top 150