Director of Project Management - UC Riverside

Another Source•Riverside, CA

10d•$126,000 - $248,000•Onsite

About The Position

Another Source's client, University of California, Riverside, is recruiting a Director of Project Management to join their team in Riverside, California. Here's a little about UC Riverside and Planning, Design & Construction: The University of California, Riverside (UCR) is a nationally recognized research university and a member of the prestigious UC system, known for advancing social mobility, innovation, and community impact. As one of the fastest-growing campuses in the UC system, UCR is actively expanding its academic, research, and student-focused infrastructure to support its dynamic and diverse population. UCR’s Planning, Design & Construction (PDC) department plays a central role in shaping the campus of the future. The team leads the planning, design, and delivery of a wide range of capital projects, from cutting-edge research facilities and academic buildings to housing, infrastructure, and campus modernization initiatives. Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor and Campus Architect, this role plays a critical leadership function within Planning, Design & Construction and contributes to the university’s long-range capital planning and development strategy. As Director of Project Management, you will lead and develop a team of approximately 5 project managers, along with contract and augmented staff, overseeing a highly active and complex capital portfolio of more than 100 projects ranging from small tenant improvements (~$50K) to large-scale capital projects exceeding $400M. This includes major initiatives such as student housing expansion, healthcare and clinical facilities, infrastructure renewal, and modernization of legacy campus buildings. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires both strategic oversight and active engagement in complex project challenges. You will operate at a high level while also staying closely connected to project execution, supporting your team, resolving issues, and ensuring successful delivery across a demanding and visible portfolio. Success in this role requires strong political acumen and the ability to effectively navigate competing priorities across a complex university environment. You will partner closely with campus leadership, faculty, Facilities, Environmental Health and Safety, and external partners, serving as a trusted and highly visible leader across a complex, matrixed environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, construction management, or related field
This role requires an active architectural license (or ability to obtain California licensure within a defined timeframe )
8+ years of experience managing complex capital or construction projects
Demonstrated experience leading teams and developing staff in a project-based environment
Strong background in design and construction, with the ability to understand and guide day-to-day project challenges
Experience working in complex, highly regulated environments, preferably within public sector or higher education
Ability to navigate a complex, highly regulated, and politically nuanced environment
Experience working directly on construction sites such as project manager or superintendent
Strong communication and relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholders
Ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on execution in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Master’s preferred
Familiarity with California public works processes is highly desirable
Additional professional licensure such as engineering is strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Lead strategy, planning, and execution of a diverse portfolio of capital improvement projects across campus
Supervise and develop a team of project managers, supporting performance, growth, and delivery outcomes
Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget while maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and compliance
Contribute to long-range campus planning and capital development strategy in partnership with senior leadership
Provide leadership in construction services, engineering standards, and technical project delivery
Ensure alignment with UC policies, public works requirements, and regulatory frameworks governing capital projects
Act as a key liaison across campus, partnering with leadership, faculty, and operational units to align priorities
Collaborate closely with Contracts, Campus Planning, Facilities, and Construction partners to ensure seamless project execution
Provide hands-on guidance to project managers, helping navigate challenges related to scope, schedule, and budget
Oversee consultant and contractor selection , negotiations, and performance
Identify risks early and implement solutions to keep projects moving forward within active and occupied campus environments
Establish and refine project management standards, processes, and performance metrics to improve delivery outcomes
Serve as a key advisor to senior leadership on capital planning and project delivery strategy