Lead Construction Project Manager

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Attractive salary package with bonuses

Medical aid and pension fund benefits

Company vehicle and fuel allowance

Professional development opportunities

Modern equipment and technology

Job summary

Placements24 is hiring a Lead Construction Project Manager to oversee major projects around Pietermaritzburg. The role blends on-site supervision with remote administrative duties, requiring strong leadership, strategic planning, and a track record of delivering complex projects on time and within budget.

You will manage safety, budgets, schedules, stakeholders, and quality control across diverse teams, while ensuring regulatory compliance and effective communication with clients and consultants.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field required.
• Minimum 10 years in construction project management with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience delivering large-scale commercial, industrial, or residential projects.
• Knowledge of SA building codes and safety regulations; proficiency in MS Project or Primavera P6.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed project plans with scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Coordinate on-site activities, schedule subcontractors, supervise workforce, ensure specs.
• Enforce health and safety regulations; conduct audits and risk assessments.
• Monitor progress, manage risks/delays, implement corrective actions.
• Manage finances, track expenses, approve invoices, report budget performance.
• Serve as primary contact for clients, architects, engineers, and regulators.
• Ensure quality control measures meet or exceed standards.
• Lead project review meetings; discuss progress, challenges, and plans.
• Negotiate contracts with suppliers/subcontractors; secure favorable terms.
• Maintain project documentation: daily reports, photos, change orders.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Negotiation

Communication

Risk management

Team motivation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field

Tools

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a dynamic and growing force in the construction sector, seeking a highly experienced and motivated Lead Construction Project Manager to oversee significant projects in and around Pietermaritzburg . This role offers a hybrid working model, combining essential on-site supervision with flexible remote administrative duties. You will be responsible for the overall planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This position requires exceptional leadership, strategic planning capabilities, and a deep understanding of all phases of the construction lifecycle. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects and managing diverse teams. We are looking for an individual who can inspire confidence, drive efficiency, and maintain rigorous safety protocols on all project sites. Join a team that values innovation, sustainability, and the development of iconic structures that benefit the community. This is your chance to make a substantial impact on major developments in KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed project plans, including scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocation for all assigned construction projects.
• Manage and coordinate all on-site activities, including scheduling subcontractors, supervising workforces, and ensuring adherence to project specifications.
• Implement and enforce stringent health and safety regulations on all construction sites, conducting regular safety audits and risk assessments.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks or delays, and implement corrective actions to keep projects on track.
• Manage project finances, including tracking expenses, approving invoices, and reporting on budget performance to stakeholders.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and regulatory bodies throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensure quality control and assurance measures are in place and executed effectively to meet or exceed project standards.
• Conduct regular project review meetings with team members and stakeholders to discuss progress, challenges, and future plans.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with suppliers and subcontractors, ensuring favorable terms and conditions.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive project documentation, including daily reports, progress photos, and change orders.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in construction project management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience managing large-scale commercial, industrial, or residential construction projects.
• In-depth knowledge of construction methods, materials, and relevant building codes and regulations in South Africa.
• Proficiency in project management software such as MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar.
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Ability to effectively manage and motivate project teams.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to various project sites in and around Pietermaritzburg.
• Familiarity with sustainability practices in construction is a plus.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and certifications.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance.
• A stimulating work environment with challenging and rewarding projects.
• Potential for career advancement to senior management roles.
• Access to modern equipment and technology.
• Allowance for travel to project sites.
• Retirement savings plan.