Design Project Manager - K-12

Gafcon Pm Cm • San Diego, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is internally classified as a Project Manager and requires demonstrated experience in design management, particularly on K-12 and/or Public Works, DSA projects. Gafcon PM-CM LLC is a family-founded firm delivering complex projects that strengthen and empower communities. We are a project and construction management consulting firm, acting as Owner’s Representatives to guide and advocate for our clients throughout every phase of their projects. We specialize in development and construction management services for both public and private sector clients. With a client-first mindset, we use advanced technologies and proven management practices to ensure transparency, foster confident decision-making, and deliver results aligned with each owner's vision. Our approach is centered on managing scope, schedule, and budget with precision—ensuring every project stays on track, meets expectations, and maximizes value. In 2024, our family-owned company joined GISI (Global Infrastructure Solutions Inc.), a global network of industry leaders. While our ownership changed, our operating business, leadership, and company culture remained unchanged. What did change was our reach—we’ve expanded our breadth of knowledge and gained access to a wider network of industry partners, strengthening the services and solutions we offer our clients. Our strength lies in our people. Gafcon is home to a dedicated team of over 130 professionals in program, project, and construction management—individuals who are not only experts in their fields but are also passionate about continuous learning and innovation. We cultivate a collaborative and inclusive culture that values diverse ideas, ethical leadership, and shared success. At Gafcon, one of our core principles is to “create value for our clients, our communities, and for each other.” We’re deeply committed to giving back—whether it’s cleaning beaches, supporting service members, or volunteering at local charities. We work hard, celebrate together, and strive to make a lasting, positive impact in everything we do. The Project Manager is responsible for representing the owner's interests throughout the lifecycle of a construction project. This role involves overseeing project planning, coordinating with various stakeholders, managing contracts, monitoring project progress, and ensuring successful project delivery. The Project Manager works alongside the Project Executive to lead the project consultants, facilitate effective communication and collaboration.

Requirements

• Proven experience (5+ years) in project management within the construction industry, as Project Engineer, Senior Project Engineer (or equivalent) preferably as owner’s representative.
• Working knowledge of construction drawings and specifications to ensure compliance with construction/project requirements.
• Working knowledge and application of master planning, project development, all phase management, construction estimating, construction schedules, budget management, project controls, document control, engineering/construction principles, contracts, and experience with various delivery methods are required.
• Demonstrates discernment and critical thinking skills in assessing situations, information and decision making.
• Identifies and differentiates between relevant and irrelevant information, focusing on key factors and priorities.
• Strong ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal forms.
• Anticipates and resolves project design and construction challenges or issues, prioritizes the critical issues on projects, and works toward project beneficial solutions.
• Maintains composure and objectivity in high-pressure or ambiguous situations, making rational decisions based on available information and working knowledge.
• Proficiency in MS Office and project management information system(s).
• Proof of legal ability to work in the United States.
• Background check.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, construction management, or related field is preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.
• Professional certifications (e.g., PMP, CCM) are advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Proficient in Gafcon Project Management Policies and Procedures.
• Collaborates with the owner/client and Project Executive to develop and implement a comprehensive project plan, including timeline, deliverables, and resource allocation.
• Prepares RFPs for professional services and construction contractors, manages proposal phase(s), and negotiates contracts.
• Manages activities of construction management team, in collaboration with the Project Executive, including contractors, engineers, architects, etc. and daily reports.
• Executes all project deliverables for client prior to final project turnover.
• Oversees the development of project plans and specifications for constructability, operability, maintainability & cost effectiveness, in collaboration with the Project Executive.
• Manages deliverables, project controls, cost, and overall project success through closeout.
• Manages the worksite and equipment access/shutdowns, obtain permits, and develops project support schedules to support onsite activities and minimize interference.
• Tracks project data including documentation and administration and reports on real and potential budget and schedule variances.
• Ensures documentation is thorough and tells a story that is easily read and interpreted by client/owner and representatives.
• Working knowledge of the principles of cost estimating, scheduling, and contract administration.
• Works with the Project Executive to prepare technical analysis and cost estimates for proposed changes.
• Maintains project reports as dictated by the project and by contractual obligations.
• Regularly monitors project progress and identifies any deviations from the plan.
• Drafts, reviews, negotiates contracts with contractors, suppliers, and vendors.
• Ensures compliance with legal, regulatory and contractual requirements in all project documentation.
• Administers contracts, including change order management, payment processing, and compliance verification, RFI, daily logs and site documentation.
• Resolves contract-related disputes and issues in collaboration with the Project Executive, and in collaboration with the client representatives.
• Promotes open and regular communication and fosters positive working relationship between owner/client, architects, engineers, and other project-related entities to ensure projects are completed with minimal disruption and/or delays.
• Works with the Project Executive to coordinate, facilitate and document meetings with stakeholders, including owner/client representatives, design professionals, contractors, and regulatory authorities.
• Prepares and presents project reports, including progress updates, financial summaries, and risk assessments, to the owner and senior management.
• Completes special projects on an as needed basis.
• Maintains professional development through Gafcollege attendance, professional organization memberships, continuing education, professional registration, and certification achievement.
• Works proactively and continuously evaluates the organization’s competitive position and identifies innovation or solutions.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with generous company contributions toward comprehensive family health, dental, and vision insurance
• Employee Stock Purchase Program
• 401(k) plan with Employer Match
• Generous Paid Vacation, Sick and Holidays
• Ongoing Professional Development and Career Advancement Support
• People-first, inclusive culture with team celebrations, volunteer opportunities, and meaningful employee recognition

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level