Construction Project Manager

JOB DESCRIPTION

One of our large Facilities Management clients is seeking a Construction Project Manager to join their growing team onsite on their Life Sciences client in La Jolla, CA. We are seeking an experienced Owner's Representative Construction Project Manager to oversee complex commercial construction projects with a focus on life sciences and technology tenant improvements. This role requires a seasoned professional who can represent client interests throughout all phases of design and construction, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Oversight Serve as the owner's primary representative on construction projects from design and pre-construction through construction, closeout and occupancy. Provide strategic oversight of all project activities, ensuring alignment with client objectives, budget parameters, and schedule requirements. Lead project teams including architects, engineers, general contractors, and specialty consultants to deliver successful outcomes.

Life Sciences & Tech TI Expertise Manage tenant improvement projects in life sciences facilities (laboratories, cleanrooms, research facilities) and technology workplaces requiring specialized systems, stringent compliance requirements, and mission-critical infrastructure. Navigate complex regulatory environments including biosafety requirements, chemical handling systems, and specialized HVAC/MEP coordination.

Budget & Schedule Management Develop and maintain comprehensive project budgets, tracking costs against projections and identifying potential overruns early. Oversee change order management, ensuring all modifications are properly documented, justified, and approved. Create and monitor detailed project schedules, proactively addressing delays and maintaining critical path awareness.

Quality Assurance & Compliance Conduct regular site visits to verify construction quality, adherence to specifications, and compliance with applicable building codes and regulations. Review submittals, RFIs, and shop drawings for conformance with design intent. Coordinate commissioning activities for specialized systems common in life sciences and technology environments.

Stakeholder Communication Facilitate clear, consistent communication among all project stakeholders including clients, design teams, contractors, and end users. Lead regular project meetings, prepare status reports, and provide executive-level updates on project performance, risks, and mitigation strategies.

Risk Management Identify potential project risks early and develop proactive mitigation strategies. Review and negotiate contracts on behalf of the owner. Ensure proper insurance coverage and manage claims if they arise. Address issues promptly to minimize impact on project delivery.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

8-15 years of construction project management experience in commercial construction Demonstrated expertise managing life sciences and/or technology tenant improvement projects Proven track record representing owner interests on complex, multi-million dollar projects Experience with fast-track project delivery and occupied building renovations

Deep understanding of construction methods, materials, and sequencing

Familiarity with specialized systems including laboratory HVAC, cleanroom construction, process piping, compressed gases, and data center infrastructure

Knowledge of building codes, ADA requirements, and life sciences regulatory standards (biosafety levels, chemical storage, etc.)

Proficiency with project management software, scheduling tools ( MS Project), and document management systems

NICE TO HAVE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

PMP, CCM, LEED AP, or similar professional certifications preferred OSHA 30-Hour Construction certification preferred