Senior Project Manager

Volkert Inc.; Bossier City (LA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Medical, Dental, & Vision coverage

401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching

Paid Time Off (PTO) and holidays

Job summary

Volkert Inc. is seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead hyperscale data center projects in Louisiana. The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of experience in commercial construction, including 5 years focused on mission-critical environments. Key responsibilities include managing project lifecycles, ensuring compliance with local regulations, and financial oversight. Strong technical expertise in MEP coordination, project management tools, and understanding of Louisiana licensing is required. The position offers various benefits, including ESOP and health coverage.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in commercial construction, with 5 years in mission-critical/data center environments.
• Clear understanding of LSLBC commercial contractor requirements.
• Expertise in MEP-heavy projects, including electrical systems.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage the lifecycle of hyperscale data center projects.
• Ensure compliance with Louisiana regulations and local permits.
• Oversee financial and contract management processes.

Skills

MEP coordination

Project management

Construction tech stacks

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil/Electrical Engineering, or related field

Tools

Procore

SMiC

Job description

We are currently searching for an experienced Senior Project Manager to support our Program Management department within the Gulf Region located in Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, or Texas.

The Senior Project Manager will lead the full lifecycle of hyperscale and edge data center projects within the State of Louisiana. This role requires technical expertise in MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) coordination, modular construction techniques, and deep knowledge of Louisiana-specific commercial licensing and environmental regulations. You will be responsible for delivering facilities that support 50‑100 MW power envelopes while managing complex utility interconnections and local stakeholder resistance.

To be considered for this position, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil/Electrical Engineering, or a related field and at least 10 years of experience in commercial construction, with 5 years dedicated to mission‑critical/data center environments.

What you'll be doing

• Direct the planning and execution of data center builds, with a focus on compressed delivery timelines.
• Develop, lead, and maintain project and master program budgets, cost controls, and integrated schedules across design, permitting, site development, and construction.
• Utilize project management tools and BIM (Building Information Modeling) to de‑risk schedules and manage parallel production for modular components.
• Manage long‑lead procurement cycles (12‑18 months) for critical equipment such as high‑voltage transformers, switchgear, and standby generators.
• Act as the technical liaison between engineering teams, designers, construction partners, energy company stakeholders, utilities, and grid operators.

Regulatory & Louisiana Compliance

• Ensure all project activities comply with the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors (LSLBC) requirements for commercial projects exceeding $50,000.
• Navigate the evolving 2026 legislative landscape in Louisiana regarding AI infrastructure, water withdrawal permits, and natural gas utility interconnections.
• Oversee the acquisition of all local permits, including parish‑level zoning and state‑level environmental impact assessments.

Technical Supervision

• Lead the coordination of high‑density cooling integrations, including immersion cooling and cold plate systems.
• Supervise the installation of on‑site Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and microgrid solutions to manage grid instability.
• Oversee commissioning (Levels 1‑5) to ensure five‑nines reliability upon handover.
• Manage architects, engineers, and construction managers throughout design and construction phases.
• Monitor and report progress toward project milestones across design, bid, and construction phases.

Financial & Contract Management

• Negotiate and manage subcontracts, ensuring all electrical and mechanical subcontractors hold the appropriate Louisiana specialty licenses for work exceeding $10,000.
• Review and approve schedules of values, payment applications, change order requests, and supporting documentation on behalf of the owner or client.
• Prepare clear and accurate reporting on schedule, cost, risk, performance, and monthly project status, including participation in month‑end reviews and billing cycles.
• Evaluate the impacts of scope changes on budgets, schedules, and fees; negotiate adjustments with the client as required.

What you need to have

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Civil/Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in commercial construction, with 5 years dedicated to mission‑critical/data center environments.
• Clear understanding of LSLBC commercial contractor requirements.
• Expertise in MEP‑heavy projects (electrical substations, chilled water plants, UPS systems).
• Proficiency in modern construction tech stacks (Procore, SMiC, or similar platforms).
• Experience acting as an owner’s representative or consultant‑led program manager.
• Proficiency with project controls and reporting tools.
• Ability to pass a pre‑employment drug screening as required by federal guidelines.
• Regular travel to client sites and project locations expected.
• Site presence during active construction phases.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Valid motor vehicle report (MVR).

Bonus points if you have

• Experience managing relationships with local Louisiana utility providers and community providers.
• An existing Louisiana Qualifying Party status.
• PMP, PE, or CCM certification.

Key Benefits

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Medical, Dental, & Vision coverage
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and holidays
• Employer‑Paid Life/AD&D insurance
• Employer‑Paid short‑term and long‑term disability
• Wellness incentives
• Student Debt Retirement Match
• Additional voluntary benefits

EOE‑Race/Sex/Vets/Disabled