Capital Improvement Manager

Cottonwood Residential

12d•Remote

About The Position

The Capital Improvement Manager is a critical role responsible for planning, managing, and delivering major capital projects across Cottonwood Residential’s entire multifamily portfolio. Reporting directly to the VP of Facilities Management, this individual serves as the central coordinator between Regional Service Managers, Regional Managers, vendors, and contractors — ensuring that capital projects are executed on schedule, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This role demands a hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, brings financial discipline to every project, and has the organizational skills to manage complex multi-site capital programs from initial scope through final payment and closeout.

Requirements

5+ years of experience managing capital improvement, construction, or facilities projects — multifamily experience strongly preferred
Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent projects across geographically dispersed sites
Strong financial acumen with experience managing project budgets, CAPEX reporting, purchase orders, and contract compliance
Experience with full contract lifecycle management, including drafting, negotiating, executing, and closing out contracts
Thorough understanding of lien waiver processes, final payment procedures, and project closeout documentation
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to build relationships with Regional Managers, Regional Service Managers, vendors, and contractors
Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail and strong time management skills
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook); experience with property management or project management software is a plus
Ability to read and interpret construction plans, specifications, and contracts
Willingness to travel to properties across the portfolio as required

Responsibilities

Manage all major capital improvement projects across the full Cottonwood Residential portfolio from initiation through final closeout
Collaborate closely with Regional Service Managers and Regional Managers to schedule projects and align timelines with site operations
Lead and facilitate pre-construction meetings with vendors and contractors, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and aligned before work begins
Develop and maintain project schedules, coordinating across multiple properties and regions simultaneously
Provide regular status updates to the VP of Facilities Management, Regional teams, and other stakeholders throughout each project lifecycle
Conduct final inspections to confirm work is complete, meets quality standards, and satisfies all contract requirements
Manage capital projects to approved budgets and proactively identify opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality
Prepare, review, and manage project budgets, including CAPEX tracking and cost-to-complete forecasting
Review, negotiate, and execute contracts with vendors and contractors in accordance with company policies
Issue and manage purchase orders for all capital projects; track PO status from issuance through payment
Process and verify invoices, ensuring payments align with project milestones, completed scope, and contract terms
Collect lien waivers (conditional and unconditional) from all contractors and subcontractors prior to and following final payment
Identify and flag budget variances early, presenting solutions and change order recommendations as needed
Source, evaluate, and select qualified vendors and contractors for capital improvement scopes
Build and maintain strong working relationships with vendors, subcontractors, and industry partners
Ensure all contractors carry appropriate insurance and licensing and comply with Cottonwood Residential’s vendor requirements
Hold vendors accountable to scope, schedule, and quality standards throughout each engagement
Maintain complete and accurate project documentation, including contracts, change orders, schedules, POs, invoices, inspection records, and lien waivers
Ensure all capital projects comply with local building codes, permit requirements, OSHA standards, and company safety policies
Manage permit applications and ensure all required inspections and approvals are obtained
Conduct and document final inspections confirming punch list completion and contract fulfillment prior to final payment