Location: San Jose, CA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Base Salary: $150,000–$200,000 DOE
Industry: Commercial Construction / K-12 Education
Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager with a strong background in K-12 construction and Division of the State Architect (DSA) projects to join our team in San Jose.
This position will lead projects from preconstruction through closeout, partnering closely with owners, architects, consultants, subcontractors, inspectors, and internal teams. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of California public works construction, DSA requirements, project controls, and the unique coordination demands of occupied or active school campuses.
This is a high-impact role for an experienced construction professional who can independently manage complex projects while building strong relationships with clients and project partners.
Lead all phases of K-12 construction projects from preconstruction through project closeout.
Manage project scope, schedule, budget, contracts, procurement, and overall execution.
Serve as the primary point of contact for owners, architects, consultants, inspectors, subcontractors, and project stakeholders. ownership of a complex K-12 project, anticipating problems before they impact the project, and working collaboratively with the field team, design team, owner, and subcontractors to keep
Navigate DSA requirements, inspections, approvals, submittals, RFIs, change orders, and closeout documentation.
Develop and maintain detailed project schedules and proactively identify potential delays or conflicts.
Manage project budgets, cost forecasting, commitments, billings, and change management.
Review plans, specifications, contracts, and other construction documents for scope, constructability, and risk.
Lead project meetings and ensure timely resolution of design and construction issues.
Coordinate subcontractors and vendors to maintain project quality, schedule, and safety objectives.
Work closely with Superintendents and field teams to ensure successful project execution.
Identify project risks and develop mitigation strategies.
Manage owner and subcontractor relationships while maintaining a high level of professionalism.
Oversee project documentation, reporting, and closeout.
Mentor and provide leadership to Project Engineers, Assistant Project Managers, and other project team members.
Maintain compliance with applicable California public works, building code, and DSA requirements.
7+ years of construction project management experience, preferably with a general contractor.
Significant experience managing K-12 educational construction projects.
Strong working knowledge of California DSA processes and requirements.
Experience with public works construction and associated contract requirements.
Proven experience managing projects from preconstruction through closeout.
Strong understanding of construction plans, specifications, contracts, schedules, and budgets.
Demonstrated experience managing subcontractors, consultants, architects, and owners.
Strong financial and project-controls experience.
Excellent communication, negotiation, organization, and leadership skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced construction environment.
Proficiency with construction management and scheduling software.
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field is preferred.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on, highly organized construction leader who understands both the technical and relationship-driven sides of project management.
You should be comfortable taking ownership of a complex K-12 project, anticipating problems before they impact the project, and working collaboratively with the field team, design team, owner, and subcontractors to keep the project moving.
Experience with DSA closeout, project documentation, public agency stakeholders, and construction on active school campuses is highly valued.
Base Salary: $150,000–$200,000 DOE
Compensation will be commensurate with experience, project portfolio, DSA/K-12 expertise, and overall qualifications.
Benefits may include:
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
401(k) / retirement plan
Paid time off and holidays
Performance-based bonus opportunity
Vehicle or travel allowance, as applicable
Professional development opportunities
Career advancement opportunities