Project Manager, Exterior Signage
About The Position
There’s never been a better time to join Stratus! As the market leader in brand implementation and maintenance, we transform how national brands connect with their customers. From exterior signage & interior branding to site refresh & remodel, from energy & lighting to repair & maintenance solutions, we deliver ideal solutions to meet all our client's branding needs. From our locations across the country, to our corporate headquarters in Mentor, Ohio, every employee is a stakeholder in Stratus’ success. This environment offers endless career opportunities for individuals with a commitment to customer service, focus on execution and bias for action. Job Summary: The Project Manager supports the Account Manager by developing and implementing comprehensive project plans for sign design, manufacturing, and installation, while meeting budget and gross margin targets. This role collaborates closely with internal departments—such as Art, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Production Control—to ensure projects are executed accurately, efficiently, and on schedule. Additionally, the Project Manager selects and manages subcontractors, negotiates pricing, oversees installation quality, and prepares final billing packages for approval.
Requirements
- Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking) is required; additional language skills are advantageous.
- Ability to read, interpret, and communicate complex technical documents, business reports, and industry regulations.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present information to managers, customers, and the public.
- Solid mathematical skills, including geometry, trigonometry, fractions, percentages, ratios, and basic statistical concepts.
- Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and experience using database and spreadsheet applications. Familiarity with computer-based project tracking tools is highly preferred.
- Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with a focus on detail, accuracy, and meeting deadlines.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education and experience required, preferably in Business, Project Management, Engineering, Architecture, or Design.
- 1-3 years of project management experience in a multi-state or regional environment is required; experience in sign manufacturing, construction trades, or related industries is highly preferred.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams (Project Management, Sales, Production, Finance/Accounting, MIS) and external subcontractors.
- Primarily an office-based role with typical office duties (sitting, standing, walking, typing, filing).
- Ability to lift packages up to 25 pounds occasionally.
Nice To Haves
- Ideal Candidate will have previous experience in the Signage Industry
- Familiarity with computer-based project tracking tools is highly preferred.
- experience in sign manufacturing, construction trades, or related industries is highly preferred.
Responsibilities
- Attend initial customer meetings alongside sales and Account Management teams to clarify location requirements, product specifications, design considerations, and preliminary surveys.
- Collaborate with the Art and Engineering departments to produce initial artwork and develop production approaches.
- Incorporate project scope, pricing parameters, and relevant details into initial proposals or final bids for customer approval.
- Establish and update the initial ERP database with project information.
- Upon project award, finalize graphic and engineering drawings, product specifications, and project timelines.
- Work with Production Control to confirm production schedules and expand the ERP database as needed.
- Secure installation drawings from the Art Department and confirm billing and reporting procedures with the customer.
- Obtain necessary customer approvals and solicit competitive bids from subcontractors, negotiating installation pricing within budget and gross margin guidelines.
- Review preliminary and technical surveys to define specific sign locations and finalize installation plans.
- Obtain customer approvals and completion photos for billing, initiate Control Orders, and prepare comprehensive billing packages for Account Manager review.
- Monitor accounts receivable, coordinate with Accounting/Credit teams to address delinquencies, and maintain an up-to-date ERP database with all project information.
- Perform other tasks as assigned by management to support overall company objectives and deliver high levels of customer satisfaction.
Benefits
- Supportive & Friendly Culture
- Manage national accounts for Fortune 500 companies
- Medical, Dental, Vision coverage options
- Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
- Company paid Life Insurance
- 401k with Employer Contribution
- Company paid Short/Long Term Disability
- Generous Paid Time Off program + Holidays
- Career Growth Opportunities and Career Mapping
- Additional perks including Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Program, Identity Theft Protection, Critical Illness Plans, Commuter Benefits and various employee discount offerings from our Vendors
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
