Sr. Project Manager

Always Underground Inc; Frankfort (IL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A fiber optic service provider is seeking a Senior Fiber Optic Project Manager to oversee the lifecycle of complex network installation projects. You will lead project teams, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. The ideal candidate has over 6 years of experience in large-scale fiber optic projects, holds a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, and possesses strong leadership and communication skills. This role is critical for delivering projects on time and within budget.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in managing large-scale fiber optic deployment projects.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis.
• PMP certification or equivalent, OSHA 30 certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead project teams from inception to completion.
• Manage project budgets and track financial performance.
• Serve as liaison between teams, contractors, and clients.
• Conduct quality assurance inspections throughout the project.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or related field

Tools

GIS mapping software

CAD software

Project management software

Job description

Overview

A Senior Fiber Optic Project Manager is a seasoned professional who oversees the entire lifecycle of large-scale, complex fiber optic network installation and deployment projects. They are responsible for project planning, execution, and delivery, ensuring that projects meet safety, quality, and budget standards. This role involves advanced technical knowledge, strong leadership, and effective communication with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

• Project leadership and management:
  • Lead cross-functional project teams, including engineers, construction managers, technicians, and subcontractors, from project inception through completion.
  • Develop detailed project plans, define project scope, and set clear timelines and deliverables.
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously, balancing competing priorities and resources.
• Budget and financial oversight:
  • Develop and manage project-specific budgets, ensuring cost control and optimal margins.
  • Identify and mitigate areas of financial risk and opportunity, and approve budgeted project expenditures.
  • Track project financial health through regular monitoring and reporting of costs, cash flow, and financial performance.
• Vendor and stakeholder management:
  • Serve as the primary liaison between internal teams, contractors, vendors, municipalities, and clients.
  • Manage vendor performance and negotiate contracts to ensure adherence to quality, safety, budget, and timeline standards.
  • Maintain effective communication with all stakeholders, providing regular status updates and addressing concerns.
• Technical expertise and quality control:
  • Apply in-depth knowledge of fiber optic outside plant (OSP) and inside plant (ISP) construction, design, and installation standards.
  • Conduct quality assurance inspections throughout the project lifecycle to ensure company and industry standards are met.
  • Validate technical designs, plans, and engineering documents, including fiber routing, splice schematics, and layouts.
• Safety and compliance:
  • Enforce safety protocols and ensure all projects comply with OSHA, state, and local regulations.
  • Obtain necessary permits, licenses, and right-of-way permissions.
  • Mitigate project risks, anticipate potential bottlenecks, and resolve issues effectively.

Qualifications and skills

• Experience:
  • Extensive experience (e.g., 6+ years) in managing large-scale, complex fiber optic network deployment projects.
  • Proven experience working with subcontractors and vendors.
  • Hands-on experience with budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis for network deployments.
• Education:
  • A bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field is often preferred.
• Certifications:
  • PMP (Project Management Professional) or an equivalent certification is highly preferred.
  • OSHA 30 certification may also be preferred.
• Technical skills:
  • In-depth knowledge of OSP and ISP construction methodologies, including trenching, drilling, splicing, and testing.
  • Familiarity with GIS mapping, CAD, and project management software.
  • Understanding of industry standards (e.g., RUS, NESC) and fiber-optic network design principles.
• Soft skills:
  • Exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
  • Strong business acumen and decision-making abilities.
  • Ability to solve problems creatively and quickly, with strong organizational and prioritization skills.