Project Manager - Design and Construction

SSP

1d•Onsite

About The Position

SSP America is seeking a Project Manager for Design and Construction to lead the successful delivery of airport restaurant projects from concept through closeout. This role involves serving as a key on-site liaison, managing multiple active projects, and partnering closely with internal teams, contractors, and airport stakeholders to deliver high-quality restaurants on time and on budget. The position requires extensive travel across the U.S. and Canada and hands-on oversight in active airport environments. SSP America is a global travel dining brand that values collaboration, accountability, and innovation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Minimum of 3 years of project management experience, with strong preference for restaurant or retail construction.
Experience managing projects within secure or regulated environments such as commercial airports strongly preferred.
Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously across one or more locations.
Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills with the ability to influence diverse stakeholders.
Technical proficiency with Microsoft Office tools including Excel, Outlook, Teams, Word, PowerPoint, and Project.
Ability to travel up to 80 percent across the U.S. and Canada and meet airport security requirements.
Must be eligible to work in the United States and able to pass required background and security clearances.
Must live near a major airport, with a preference for candidates living in the Southeast USA.

Responsibilities

Serve as the on-site project manager and primary liaison for single and multi-unit airport restaurant development projects.
Coordinate with internal SSP teams and external partners to manage all construction-related activities and issues.
Develop and manage project scopes, budgets, cost plans, and procurement for equipment, millwork, and construction services.
Oversee architects, engineers, general contractors, and vendors to ensure design intent and operational requirements are met.
Build and manage detailed project schedules to support business openings and operational goals.
Lead site meetings, progress reviews, and stakeholder communications throughout the project lifecycle.
Monitor construction quality, safety, and performance standards to ensure compliance with SSP and airport requirements.
Manage punch lists, inspections, permits, utilities, and closeout documentation for successful restaurant openings.
Track costs, risks, and timelines while providing clear, consistent project updates to leadership and stakeholders.
Support continuous improvement by applying best practices, resolving issues proactively, and driving efficient project outcomes.