Lead Project Manager, Underground Wet Utilities

Markent Personnel; Guasti (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Markent Personnel is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead underground wet utility projects (water, sewer, and storm drain) across Southern California.

This role owns the full project lifecycle—from pre-construction handoff through closeout—managing budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and client coordination for both public and private sector infrastructure work. It requires hands-on leadership and a practical understanding of how underground work is built.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Construction Management or related field.
• 5+ years of experience managing underground wet utility or heavy civil projects.
• Strong background in water, sewer, and storm drain construction.
• Experience with budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and client relationships.
• Knowledge of public works contracts, prevailing wage, and California union labor environments.
• Proficiency with CPM scheduling, cost control, and change management.
• Experience with Bluebeam, Excel, HCSS, Procore, or similar tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of wet utility projects from award through closeout.
• Develop and manage project schedules, budgets, and staffing plans.
• Ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for owners, agencies, and inspectors.
• Manage project budgets, cost forecasts, and work-in-progress reporting.
• Track change orders, RFIs, and contract modifications.
• Oversee billing, cash flow, and revenue tracking.
• Procure and manage subcontractors and suppliers.
• Coordinate manpower, equipment, and material deliveries.
• Maintain look-ahead schedules and drive weekly production planning.
• Support estimating, budgeting, and proposal development.
• Review plans and specs for constructability and risk.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings and site walks.
• Maintain accurate project documentation and closeout packages.

Skills

Project management

Budgeting

Scheduling

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Field coordination

Client relations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Construction Management

Tools

Bluebeam

Excel

HCSS

Procore

Job description

Markent Personnel is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead underground wet utility projects (water, sewer, and storm drain) across Southern California.

This role owns the full project lifecycle—from pre-construction handoff through closeout—managing budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and client coordination for both public and private sector infrastructure work. It requires hands-on leadership and a practical understanding of how underground work is built.