Federal Construction Project Lead (Travel 100%)

CDM Smith; Gaithersburg (MD); On-site; USD 76,000 - 159,000; Full time

Job summary

CDM Smith is seeking a seasoned Federal construction Project Manager in the Gaithersburg, MD area to lead all phases of complex projects for government clients. You will liaise with the government, stakeholders, and contractors to ensure scope, safety, quality, and schedule compliance.

You will review design documents and plans, manage field teams, and enforce rigorous safety and regulatory standards. The role requires travel and a background in construction management and Federal FAR compliance.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship and ability to pass federal background check.
• Ability to work in the field which can include long periods of standing, walking or sitting.
• Ability to read and interpret constructioncodes, plans, specifications, and inspection requirements.
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with all applicable federal, state and local regulations.
• Demonstrate technical proficiency and design application knowledge.
• Strong organizational skills to balance and prioritize work.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong writing and oral communication skills.

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

U.S. citizenship

Federal background check

Field-work capable

Reading construction docs

Regulatory compliance

Strong communication

Travel 100%

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

CDM Smith is seeking a seasoned Federal construction Project Manager in the Gaithersburg, MD area to lead all phases of complex projects for government clients. You will liaise with the government, stakeholders, and contractors to ensure scope, safety, quality, and schedule compliance.

You will review design documents and plans, manage field teams, and enforce rigorous safety and regulatory standards. The role requires travel and a background in construction management and Federal FAR compliance.