Project Executive

Pop-Up Talent; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Pop-Up Talent in San Jose, CA is seeking a Project Executive to lead delivery and drive new business from an established client network. This office-based, full-time role blends strategic leadership with hands-on project oversight.

The candidate will mentor project managers and engineers, manage multiple projects from pursuit to closeout, and work with executives to align with growth plans, safety standards, and profitability.

Qualifications

• 14+ years of progressive construction experience, HVAC and/or plumbing preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field.
• Strong client network and proven history of business development.
• Track record of delivering profitable projects of varying size and scope.
• Experience leading teams and implementing strategic growth initiatives.
• Strong grasp of preconstruction processes, contract negotiations, and risk management.
• OSHA 10 certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Drive business development by generating new leads and securing projects through existing client relationships.
• Lead, coordinate, and manage multiple construction projects from pursuit through closeout.
• Serve as a “seller-doer,” maintaining client satisfaction while expanding relationships.
• Mentor and oversee project managers, engineers, and assistant project managers.
• Support preconstruction efforts, contract negotiations, and pursuit strategies.
• Ensure accurate and timely project financial reporting and maximize profitability.
• Stay ahead of market trends, supply chain issues, and industry pricing strategies.
• Champion company initiatives around safety, culture, and professional ethics.
• Build and sustain a strong team environment through leadership, coaching, and accountability.

Skills

Business development

Client network

Leadership

Project oversight

Profitability focus

Strategic growth

Preconstruction processes

Contract negotiations

Risk management

Education

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

OSHA 10 certification

Job description

Project Executive – Office based in San Jose, CA – Full-time

Base Pay Range

$150,000.00 /yr – $200,000.00 /yr

About the Company

• We are a leading Bay Area mechanical contractor specializing in large-scale HVAC and plumbing projects, with a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and client partnerships. The company is in a high-growth phase with a clear vision to double revenue from $50M to $100M, expand its service and maintenance division, and build a long-term legacy in the industry. Guided by a forward-thinking leadership team, the organization fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional development while continuously enhancing benefits and compensation to attract and retain top talent

The Opportunity

• As a Project Executive, you will step into a strategic "seller-doer" role where you will not only lead and oversee project delivery but also generate new opportunities by leveraging your existing client network and industry reputation. This is not a purely operational role, success here requires bringing in new business, managing those client relationships, and guiding project teams to deliver outstanding results. The role also involves mentoring project managers, engineers, and assistants, while working closely with company executives to align projects with long-term growth strategies
• The ideal candidate is a proven industry leader with a strong book of client relationships in HVAC and plumbing. While technical skills can be supported internally, your ability to drive new business and maintain long-term client partnerships is the key factor the company is seeking

Key Responsibilities

• Drive business development by generating new leads and securing projects through existing client relationships
• Lead, coordinate, and manage multiple construction projects from pursuit through closeout
• Serve as a “seller-doer,” maintaining client satisfaction while expanding relationships
• Mentor and oversee project managers, engineers, and assistant project managers
• Support preconstruction efforts, contract negotiations, and pursuit strategies
• Ensure accurate and timely project financial reporting and maximize profitability
• Stay ahead of market trends, supply chain issues, and industry pricing strategies
• Champion company initiatives around safety, culture, and professional ethics
• Build and sustain a strong team environment through leadership, coaching, and accountability

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• At least 14+ years of progressive experience in construction, preferably HVAC and plumbing
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field
• Strong client network and proven history of business development
• Track record of delivering profitable projects of varying size and scope
• Experience leading teams and implementing strategic growth initiatives
• Strong grasp of preconstruction processes, contract negotiations, and risk management
• Industry certifications such as OSHA 10 preferred

What We’re Really Looking For

• Business Generator: A Project Executive with a book of business and strong client network that translates to immediate opportunities
• Stable Career Path: Someone with steady tenure who is not simply “job-hopping” but seeking long-term growth and impact
• Leader & Mentor: A professional who can elevate the project management team while fostering a collaborative, driven culture
• Strategic Partner: A leader aligned with the company’s long-term vision to scale, strengthen service offerings, and position the company as a market leader

We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are an organization that values diversity. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, including minorities and persons with disabilities.