Project Manager (Data Centers Project Management Advisory)

Bdconnect; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Brailsford & Dunlavey in Chicago is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead complex, technically sophisticated projects from planning through closeout. You will coordinate with clients, design teams, contractors, and owners, focusing initially on data center programs.

The role requires 5+ years in related fields and a bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, or construction/real estate development. Strong budgeting, scheduling, and client-facing skills are essential.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in project management, construction, real estate development, architecture, engineering, or related fields.
• Experience managing data center, mission-critical, technology, or other technically complex projects preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate Development, Urban Planning, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead a wide variety of complex projects from planning and design through construction and closeout, with focus on data center projects.
• Serve as a trusted adviser to clients and liaise among owners, architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants.
• Oversee project budgets, schedules, procurement, documentation, and delivery activities; identify risks and opportunities.

Skills

Project management

Budget management

Scheduling

Client communication

Stakeholder coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate Development, Urban Planning

Job description

Career Opportunities with Brailsford and Dunlavey

A great place to work.

Careers At Brailsford and Dunlavey

Brailsford & Dunlavey (B&D), which now includes Project Management Advisors (PMA), is seeking a Project Manager to join our team in Chicago.

This role is based in Chicago, IL.

The Opportunity

An opportunity for an experienced project management professional who enjoys leading complex, technically sophisticated projects and collaborating with clients, design teams, contractors, consultants, and other project stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.

We are continuing to grow our capabilities in the data center space and are seeking a Project Manager to join our Chicago team. The ideal candidate will bring experience managing complex, technically sophisticated projects and will have an initial focus on supporting data center projects.

At Brailsford & Dunlavey (B&D), we lead the planning, development, and management of the places that shape and strengthen communities—where people live, learn, work, and innovate. B&D partners with institutions, municipalities, and organizations to deliver complex real estate and capital projects through strategic advisory and program management services across the full project lifecycle.

B&D recently joined forces with Project Management Advisors (PMA), bringing together two nationally recognized leaders in program management and real estate advisory services. Together, the combined firm offers expanded capabilities across industries and end-to-end project delivery—from early-stage strategy through design, construction, and occupancy.

As a Project Manager, you will lead a wide variety of complex projects from planning and design through construction and closeout, with an initial focus on data center projects. You will serve as a trusted advisor to clients and a key liaison among owners, architects, engineers, contractors, consultants, and other project stakeholders. You will oversee project budgets, schedules, procurement, documentation, and delivery activities while proactively identifying risks and opportunities and ensuring alignment with client goals.

How You'll Contribute

• Work on projects from early-stage planning through project completion, ensuring alignment with client goals, budgets, schedules, and quality expectations
• Establish strong partnerships with clients and serve as a key liaison between owners, architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants
• Review and evaluate project requirements, program goals, and design solutions to ensure alignment with owner objectives
• Initiate and manage procurement efforts for design, construction, and consultant services
• Draft, review, communicate, negotiate, and manage contractual documents for design, construction, and consultant professionals
• Develop, maintain, and monitor project budgets, schedules, and web-based project controls while identifying potential risks and opportunities
• Analyze budget and schedule impacts and provide recommendations to support project financial objectives
• Oversee the development and review of architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, and bid documents
• Establish, lead, and document project meetings, ensuring clear communication and alignment among stakeholders
• Provide regular project updates to clients, city officials, architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants while proactively identifying issues and solutions
• Anticipate potential changes to project budgets and schedules and provide recommendations to mitigate risks and maintain project objectives
• Coordinate value engineering exercises and evaluate alternatives with ownership teams
• Coordinate with architects and project teams to monitor contractor and vendor activities and verify compliance with design specifications, schedules, and quality standards
• Support contract administration activities, including contracts, purchase orders, and progress payment documentation
• Observe and report on construction progress, project risks, and construction-related issues
• Manage project closeout activities and ensure successful project completion
• Support PMA’s business development efforts by participating in networking opportunities, proposal development, and client interviews

What We're Looking For

• 5+ years of experience in project management, construction, real estate development, architecture, engineering, or related fields, with experience managing data center, mission-critical, technology, or other technically complex projects preferred
• Familiarity with data center environments, mission-critical infrastructure, MEP systems, and the unique scheduling and coordination requirements associated with data center development and construction is a plus
• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate Development, Urban Planning, or a related field
• Demonstrated experience managing project budgets, schedules, procurement activities, and project controls
• Strong understanding of design and construction processes, including architectural drawings, engineering documents, bidding, and contract administration
• Experience coordinating and managing architects, engineers, contractors, consultants, and other project stakeholders
• Ability to analyze project data, identify risks, and develop practical solutions to keep projects moving forward
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate with clients and project teams
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining strong attention to detail and organization

What Sets You Apart

• You are a confident project leader who can independently manage projects while building trusted client relationships
• You have experience delivering data center, mission-critical, or other highly technical projects and understand the importance of reliability, schedule, quality, and operational performance
• You communicate clearly, professionally, and proactively with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams
• You have strong business judgment and the ability to anticipate challenges before they impact project goals
• You are highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage complex project information, budgets, and schedules
• You enjoy solving problems, developing solutions, and keeping projects moving forward in dynamic environments
• You are comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands-on project execution
• You demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and accountability in all interactions
• You thrive in collaborative environments and enjoy partnering with diverse stakeholder groups

This role's target base annual salary range is currently $100,000- $150,000. Pay scales are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of several factors unique to each candidate, including, but not limited to, job-related skills, relevant education, experience, certifications, candidate abilities, and pay relative to other team members.

The company benefits listed above are a summary of the benefits. Specific details, availability, and eligibility requirements apply in accordance with company policies.

Brailsford & Dunlavey Inc. is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

Brailsford & Dunlavey, Inc. participates in E-Verify.