Design and Construction Project Manager

The Pennsylvania State University; State College (Centre County); On-site; USD 72,300 - 122,016; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

75% tuition discount for employees and eligible family members

Robust retirement plans

Job summary

The Pennsylvania State University is seeking a Design and Construction Project Manager to oversee various construction projects. The role involves managing project scope, budget, and schedule while ensuring compliance with university standards.

A Bachelor's degree in Architecture or related field is required along with strong project management skills. The position offers a competitive salary range of $72,300.00 to $122,016.00 and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of relevant experience for Advanced level, 1+ year for Intermediate.
• Experience managing complex projects up to $20 million preferred.
• OSHA 10 certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead project management for various construction initiatives.
• Define project execution parameters and standards.
• Monitor project progress and manage risks.

Skills

Project management

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Risk management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related

Tools

Project management information systems

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Office of Physical Plant Design and Construction is seeking applicants for a Design and Construction Project Manager to join the team. The Design and Construction Project Manager (PM) supports the OPP Design and Construction (D&C) mission of transforming the physical campus environment at Penn State through strategic planning, thoughtful design, quality construction, and the development of great teams. The PM is also rooted in the values of quality, safety, innovation, efficiency, and respect. The position will manage multiple projects of varying magnitude, providing support through planning, design, construction, and closeout while leading stakeholder communication through all project phases.

This PM position requires the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and work independently while coordinating with various teams and resources to ensure the final product meets the requirements of the contract documents and the University's design and construction standards. The successful candidate must have excellent interpersonal skills, both verbal and written.

Job Responsibilities

• Direct and lead assigned projects across the customer portfolio – managing scope, budget, schedule, execution, and stakeholder coordination to ensure successful completion.
• Define project delivery method, execution parameters, standards, policies, and procedures for design and construction initiatives.
• Manage the selection and oversight of design teams, construction managers/contractors, consultants, and vendors to achieve project objectives and customer expectations.
• Execute design and construction projects utilizing the Office of Physical Plant project management information system.
• Monitor project progress, team performance, budgets, cost estimates, value engineering efforts, change orders, and project reporting.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with design, construction, safety, environmental health, code compliance, and schedule impacts; develop contingency plans as needed.
• Ensure compliance with applicable codes, regulations, owner standards, and University policies by project teams and contractors.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and actively contribute to unit efforts that enhance project management effectiveness, team performance, and work execution methods.
• Utilize available technology to improve project communication and efficiency.
• Engage with OPP and University leadership on projects requiring senior‑level approval and oversight.
• Monitor market and industry trends to evaluate and implement innovative project delivery and construction practices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Engineering, Construction Management, or related discipline.
• Experience and demonstrated ability to manage individual complex design and construction projects and/or programs up to $20 million is strongly preferred.
• Previous experience with project management, information systems, and software.
• OSHA 10 certification.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

For Design and Construction Project Manager – Advanced Professional: Bachelor's Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. No certifications required.

For Design and Construction Project Manager – Intermediate Professional: Bachelor's Degree and 1+ year of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. No certifications required.

Background Checks / Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires operation of a motor vehicle as a part of job duties. A valid driver's license and a successful motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks. Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $72,300.00 – $122,016.00. Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, robust retirement plans, paid time off, holidays, vacation, sick time, along with a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.

EEO is the Law

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive.