Northeast Contract & Project Manager for Utilities

Jacobs; Newark (NJ); Hybrid; USD 154,700 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) plan

Unlimited paid time off

Employee stock purchase plan

Job summary

Jacobs in Newark, NJ is seeking a strategic Contract & Project Manager for Utilities to support growth in the Northeast. This role combines client engagement with project management to enhance utility accounts in transmission and distribution.

The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of relevant experience and strong communication skills for successful project execution. Employees benefit from comprehensive health plans, 401(k), unlimited paid time off, and potential bonuses.

Qualifications

• 10 years of experience working with utilities, focusing on transmission and distribution.
• Proven track record in client-facing roles and business development.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Identify and secure new project opportunities with utility clients.
• Oversee planning and delivery of T&D projects ensuring scope, schedule, and budget are met.
• Manage project risks, changes, and stakeholder communications.

Skills

Client engagement

Project management

Communication

Negotiation

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Project Management, or related field

Master’s and PE license preferred

Job description

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

Jacobs, ENR’s #1 Pure Engineering Design firm, is growing its Energy & Power Solutions team in the Northeast to address the needs of its expanding client base.

We are seeking a strategic Contract & Project Manager for Utilities to support the growth of utility accounts in the Northeast for the Transmission & Distribution (T&D) sector. This role is ideal for a seller‑doer who thrives on building client relationships, identifying new opportunities, and delivering high‑impact energy infrastructure projects. You will serve as both a framework manager and project delivery lead, ensuring continuity between sales and delivery teams and driving client satisfaction and operational excellence across a portfolio of utility projects.

You will collaborate with our technical leadership and sales professionals on pursuits of strategic importance to the firm. You’ll be expected to possess highly collaborative communication and problem‑solving skills. Successful candidates will have a demonstrated ability to anticipate challenges and support large teams responsible for the daily details of project delivery.

Demonstrated abilities include a broad understanding of engineering and construction in the utility market. Prior experience in project management, design, and business development is expected. Knowledge of the utility and energy markets in the Northeast, as well as a strong network of contacts therein will be seen favorably.

If you are excited by the prospect of contributing to a secure and clean energy future and enjoy working with a dynamic, multi‑disciplinary team to develop innovative solutions, Jacobs is the place for you. Come join our growing team to realize the future of energy! This role is hybrid with the expectation of spending time in Jacobs’ and client’s offices in the Boston or New York area.

Key Responsibilities

Client Engagement & Framework Management

• Identify, pursue, and secure new project opportunities within existing frameworks and contracts with utility clients
• Partner with sales to develop account growth strategies aligned with client needs and organizational goals
• Attend external conferences and networking events
• Lead proposal development, pricing strategies, and contract negotiations

Project Management & Delivery

• Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of T&D projects, ensuring scope, schedule, budget, and quality targets are met.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams including engineering, environmental, permitting, and construction management.
• Manage project risks, changes, and stakeholder communications.
• Ensure compliance with utility standards, safety regulations, and industry best practices.

Here’s what you’ll need

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Project Management, or related field (Master’s and PE license preferred)
• At least 10 years of experience working with utilities, with a focus on transmission and distribution
• Proven track record in client‑facing roles and business development
• Demonstrable track record in project management excellence and leadership with Northeast utilities
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities.
• Knowledgeable and passionate about the utility market in the Northeast and beyond
• Familiarity with utility standards, regulatory environments, and permitting processes
• Exhibits a strategic, innovative and growth mindset and ability to work independently

Benefits

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well‑being. Your security. Your future. Employees have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount. Eligible employees may also enroll in a deferred compensation plan or the Executive Deferral Plan. Jacobs has an unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) policy for full‑time salaried/exempt employees, seven paid holidays, and caregiver leave. And certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.

Compensation

The base salary range for this position is $154,700.00 to $200,000.00. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.