Lead Restaurant Construction & Project Delivery

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria; Buffalo Grove (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is seeking a Construction Manager to lead the execution of new restaurant builds, remodels, and refresh projects. You will manage budgets, schedules, and procurement while coordinating with Real Estate, Design, Facilities, Operations, Marketing, and IT to ensure brand standards and timely openings.

The role requires 3–5+ years in commercial construction project management, experience with architectural/design processes, and strong communication skills for senior leadership

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3–5+ years of experience in commercial construction project management; restaurant or retail buildout experience strongly preferred
• 3+ years of experience in Architectural & Engineering and Design strongly preferred
• Working knowledge of construction processes, building codes, and permitting requirements
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Strong vendor management, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; comfortable presenting to senior leadership
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management software (e.g., MS Project, Procore, Smartsheet)

Responsibilities

• Lead execution of new restaurant construction, remodel, and refresh projects across an assigned territory
• Manage project budgets, schedules, and procurement to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery
• Oversee general contractors, subcontractors, vendors, and design consultants throughout construction
• Partner cross-functionally with Real Estate, Design, Facilities, and Operations to align on scope, timing, and brand standards
• Review and approve construction documents, plans, and scopes of work
• Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress, quality, and safety compliance
• Manage permitting, inspections, and municipal approvals in coordination with local jurisdictions
• Support new restaurant opening walk-throughs with Operations and General Contractors
• Identify and resolve construction issues, delays, and budget variances proactively
• Provide regular project status updates and reporting to senior leadership
• Ensure all work complies with applicable building codes, ADA requirements, and health/safety regulations

Skills

Vendor management

Project leadership

Communication

Budgeting

Scheduling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field, or equivalent experience

Tools

MS Project

Procore

Smartsheet

Job description

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is seeking a Construction Manager to lead the execution of new restaurant builds, remodels, and refresh projects. You will manage budgets, schedules, and procurement while coordinating with Real Estate, Design, Facilities, Operations, Marketing, and IT to ensure brand standards and timely openings.

The role requires 3–5+ years in commercial construction project management, experience with architectural/design processes, and strong communication skills for senior leadership