Senior Construction Project Lead - Public Works

Judge Direct Placement; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Judge Direct Placement seeks an experienced Construction Project Manager to lead Public Works and infrastructure projects from preconstruction through closeout. The role emphasizes delivering high-quality projects safely, on time, and within budget while coordinating with owners, architects, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams.

The ideal candidate has strong technical construction knowledge, leadership skills, and a proven track record across all phases of construction, including

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field.
• 8–10 years of construction project management experience with leadership roles.
• Experience managing Public Works, Educational, Municipal, or Infrastructure projects preferred.
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and team development abilities.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with a proactive sense of urgency.
• Strong organizational, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Knowledge of construction means and methods, scheduling, procurement, estimating, and cost control.
• Understanding of contract administration, contract law, and project accounting principles.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple projects or large, complex construction assignments simultaneously.
• Develop project estimates, budgets, and contract pricing including GMP and Lump Sum.
• Negotiate cost-effective subcontract agreements and material purchases.
• Establish project procedures and controls to ensure timely buyout, submittal approvals, procurement, and material delivery.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with owners, architects, engineers, and subcontractors.
• Partner with field leadership to develop and implement project-specific safety plans and procedures.
• Provide timely, accurate project reporting to senior management.
• Lead, mentor, and supervise project team members.
• Organize and facilitate project meetings with stakeholders and subcontractors.
• Review contract requirements and ensure compliance with all project obligations.
• Oversee documentation of project events, including change orders, delays, claims, and incidents.
• Lead preconstruction planning and coordination activities.
• Prepare, negotiate, and issue subcontractor bid packages.
• Support business development initiatives and participate in client interviews and presentations.
• Maintain strict quality control standards and ensure project excellence.
• Collaborate with estimating teams and provide expertise during bidding activities.
• Proactively identify and mitigate risks, disputes, and claims.
• Manage project closeout procedures and documentation.

Skills

Leadership

Decision-making

Team development

Communication

Negotiation

Problem-solving

Organization

Proactive urgency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Construction Management/Architecture

Job description

Judge Direct Placement seeks an experienced Construction Project Manager to lead Public Works and infrastructure projects from preconstruction through closeout. The role emphasizes delivering high-quality projects safely, on time, and within budget while coordinating with owners, architects, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams.

The ideal candidate has strong technical construction knowledge, leadership skills, and a proven track record across all phases of construction, including