Director of Project Management - UC Riverside

Another Source • Riverside, CA

11d • $126,000 - $248,000

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. Learn more here: https://pdc.ucr.edu/
About this role:
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 (Master’s preferred)
• 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
• 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

• Familiarity with California public works processes is highly desirable
• Additional professional licensure such as engineering is strongly preferred
• Experience working directly on construction sites such as project manager or superintendent

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

Benefits

• The University of California offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work life balance.
• Learn more about UC benefits here: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees