Deputy Project Leader

M.C. Dean, Inc.; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Generous paid time off

Relocation assistance

401(k) Retirement Plan

Job summary

M.C. Dean, Inc. is looking for a Deputy Project Leader in McLean, Virginia to enhance their Automation Systems Business Unit. This role entails supporting the Project Leader in executing automation systems projects for clients in sectors such as industrial controls and cybersecurity. Candidates should have a strong technical background in automation systems, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to manage project budgets. Benefits include a competitive salary, comprehensive insurance, and generous paid time off.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of automation systems, including switchgear and power distribution.
• Willingness to learn and grow in a project leadership role.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing automation systems projects.
• Support the project team and define project requirements.
• Maintain project documentation and prepare status updates.

Skills

Automation systems knowledge

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Master’s degree in engineering

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Tools

Primavera P6

Job description

About M.C. Dean

M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber‑physical solutions for the nation’s most mission‑critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. With over 7,000 employees, our capabilities span electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life safety, automation and controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers resilient, secure, and innovative power and technology solutions through engineering expertise and smart systems integration.

Job Overview

M.C. Dean is a leading provider of electrical engineering and systems integration services, specializing in automation systems. We are seeking a dedicated and motivated Deputy Project Leader to join our Automation Systems Business Unit. In this role, you will support the Project Leader in overseeing and managing the successful execution of automation systems projects for our clients in various applications including industrial controls, water‑wastewater, power controls and protection, cybersecurity, energy management, building automation, and transportation systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical background in automation systems, excellent organizational skills, and a desire to grow in a project leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Project Support:
  • Assist the Project Leader in planning, coordinating, and executing automation systems projects.
  • Collaborate with the project team to define project requirements, objectives, and deliverables.
  • Contribute to the development of project plans, work breakdown structures, and schedules.
  • Assist in monitoring project progress, identifying and addressing issues, and managing project risks and changes.
• Team Coordination
  • Support the Project Leader in coordinating and managing the project team, including engineers, technicians, and subcontractors.
  • Assist in assigning tasks and ensuring timely completion of project deliverables.
  • Foster a collaborative team environment, promoting effective communication and knowledge sharing.
• Documenting and Reporting
  • Assist in maintaining project documentation, including project plans, reports, and correspondence.
  • Support the preparation of project status updates, progress reports, and client communications.
  • Contribute to the development of project presentations and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
• Quality Assurance and Compliance
  • Assist in ensuring that automation systems projects meet quality standards and comply with industry codes and regulations.
  • Participate in inspections and audits to verify compliance with design specifications, safety standards, and project requirements.
  • Contribute to the implementation and enforcement of quality control processes and procedures.
• Budget and Resource Management
  • Support the Project Leader in managing project budgets, tracking expenses, and resource utilization.
  • Collaborate with procurement and supply chain teams to coordinate the procurement of project materials, equipment, and subcontractors.
  • Assist in monitoring project financials and identifying opportunities for cost optimization.
• Automation Systems Knowledge
  • Develop a strong understanding of automation systems, including switchgear, power distribution, metering, motor control centers, and related technologies.
  • Stay updated with industry best practices and standards in automation systems.
  • Contribute to technical discussions and provide support in resolving technical issues.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of automation systems, including switchgear, power distribution, metering, motor control centers, and related technologies.
• Willingness to learn and grow in a project leadership role.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams to achieve project goals.
• Primavera P6 CPM scheduling experience and proficiency (or equivalent).
• Ability to obtain and maintain required government security clearances as needed.
• Proven experience leading and managing cross‑functional project teams.
• Financial literacy and demonstrated knowledge of project financial reporting.
• Strong analytical problem‑solving and data‑driven decision‑making abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Project management certifications such as PMP or CAP are highly desirable.
• In attendance at regular in‑person meetings with customers outside of the assigned office.
• Possess driver’s license and vehicle for transportation to customer sites; this position may require ongoing or intermittent use of a company vehicle. Selected candidates must possess an acceptable driving record in accordance with our policy.

Education / Experience

• Master’s degree in engineering with 3+ years of experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering with 5+ years of experience.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
• Generous paid time off.
• Relocation assistance.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan.