Underground Utilities Project Lead

H.T. Prof Executive Search; California, United States, Northern America, Americas; Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

H. T. PROF Group is seeking a Project Manager to lead underground wet utility projects (water, sewer, storm drain) in Southern California.

You will own the full lifecycle from pre-construction to closeout, managing budget, schedule, subcontractors, and client coordination on public and private sector infrastructure. This hands-on leadership role requires a deep understanding of how underground work is built, coordinating field teams with superintendents, reviewing plans for constructability, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience managing underground wet utility or heavy civil projects.
• Strong background in water, sewer, and storm drain construction.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and client relationships.
• Solid understanding of public works contracts, prevailing wage, and union labor environments in California.
• Experience with CPM scheduling, cost control, and change management.
• Proficiency with project tools such as Bluebeam, Excel, HCSS, Procore, or similar systems.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Valid California driver's license and ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of wet utility projects from award through closeout.
• Develop and manage project schedules, budgets, and staffing plans.
• Ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for owners, agencies, and inspectors.
• Manage project budgets, cost forecasts, and work-in-progress reporting.
• Track and process change orders, RFIs, and contract modifications.
• Oversee billing, cash flow, and revenue tracking.
• Support value engineering and cost-saving initiatives without sacrificing quality.
• Procure and manage subcontractors and suppliers.
• Review scopes, negotiate pricing, and enforce contract compliance.
• Monitor productivity and resolve performance or schedule issues.
• Partner with Superintendents and field leadership; coordinate manpower and deliveries.
• Maintain look-ahead schedules and drive weekly production planning.
• Review plans and specs for constructability and risk.
• Participate in pre-bid meetings and site walks.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/Construction Management

Tools

Bluebeam

Excel

HCSS

Procore

Job description

H. T. PROF Group is seeking a Project Manager to lead underground wet utility projects (water, sewer, storm drain) in Southern California.

You will own the full lifecycle from pre-construction to closeout, managing budget, schedule, subcontractors, and client coordination on public and private sector infrastructure. This hands-on leadership role requires a deep understanding of how underground work is built, coordinating field teams with superintendents, reviewing plans for constructability, and