Federal Construction Manager: Lead Large Projects

CDM Smith; Allentown (Lehigh County); On-site; USD 76,440 - 159,432; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith is seeking an experienced project manager to lead federal construction initiatives in the United States. You will direct all project phases, coordinate with contractors and government stakeholders, and ensure adherence to FAR, safety, and quality standards.

Expect extensive on‑site work and collaborative problem solving with diverse teams. You will review design documents, manage punch lists, and deliver projects on time and within budget, while mentoring junior staff and maintaining

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree required; 8 years of relevant experience.
• Equivalent additional directly related experience considered in lieu of a college degree.
• U.S. citizen; ability to pass a federal background check.
• Willingness to travel domestically or internationally.
• Experience with large Federal construction projects; CCM/PMP preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan, direct, and manage all phases of Federal construction projects to ensure successful execution in accordance with project scope, budget, and schedule.
• Oversee and coordinate the activities of contractors, subcontractors, and on‑site personnel to maintain quality, safety, and compliance with contractual and technical requirements.
• Act as the primary liaison between the Federal government client’s construction branch, project stakeholders, and contractors, maintaining effective communication and issue resolution throughout the project lifecycle.
• Review and evaluate construction documents, including safety plans, QC plans, design drawings, specifications, submittals, shop drawings, RFIs, and technical reports, ensuring alignment with FAR, client‑specific design standards, and applicable codes.
• Lead and participate in pre‑construction conferences, design and progress meetings, on‑site inspections, and project closeout activities, including development and management of punch lists.
• Ensure that all construction activities are executed in accordance with federal safety, environmental, and quality standards, including agency‑specific requirements.
• Track project performance metrics, analyze variances, and implement corrective actions to ensure timely, cost‑effective, and compliant project delivery.
• Mentor and train junior staff, fostering technical growth and promoting adherence to company and industry best practices in construction management.
• Prepare and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including daily reports, progress updates, and official correspondence for submission to federal agencies.
• Promote and enforce a culture of safety across all project sites, ensuring compliance with OSHA, USACE, and agency‑specific safety standards.
• Perform other related responsibilities as assigned to support successful project outcomes and client satisfaction.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project Management

Regulatory Compliance

Team Mentoring

Stakeholder Management

Safety Awareness

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

8 years relevant experience

Tools

CCM Certification

PMP Certification

Job description

CDM Smith is seeking an experienced project manager to lead federal construction initiatives in the United States. You will direct all project phases, coordinate with contractors and government stakeholders, and ensure adherence to FAR, safety, and quality standards.

Expect extensive on‑site work and collaborative problem solving with diverse teams. You will review design documents, manage punch lists, and deliver projects on time and within budget, while mentoring junior staff and maintaining