Project Manager II

Pepper Construction • Chicago, IL

21h • $100,000 - $120,000

About The Position

With offices in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Ohio, Pepper Construction is a national general contracting and construction management firm that primarily serves the private sector. Pepper Construction provides clients the experience and resources of a national company, combined with the hands-on approach of a local company.
COMPANY OVERVIEW:
Pepper leads the construction industry with an energy and ambition uncommon today. We seek out new methods and technologies that support your vision with a practical approach, and we apply our nearly 100 years of expertise to ensure the precision, quality and confidence that comes from working alongside a partner that's dedicated to performance.
Every building starts with a solid foundation, it’s people. At Pepper, we create leaders at every level and generate momentum in every market we serve by rewarding new thinking and respecting the long-standing values that have made our company unique for generations. You'll see the impact of our leadership in everything we do - from the Preconstruction work, we deliver to the decisions we make in the field to the relationships we form and keep fresh for years to come.
As a family-owned and operated company, we take building personally.
POSITION SUMMARY:
We’re seeking a driven, experienced Project Manager to lead fast-track tenant improvements and interior renovations within the Interiors team. Projects are often executed in occupied, operational spaces where precision, urgency, and coordination are critical.
You will take ownership from preconstruction through closeout—driving financial performance, managing subcontractors, and ensuring safety, quality, and schedule alignment. As a trusted client partner, you’ll mentor team members and help generate repeat business through strong relationships and consistent execution.

Requirements

• B.S. in Construction Engineering, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field
• 6+ years of construction management experience, with significant experience in interior construction, tenant improvements, or renovation work
• Experience managing projects in occupied spaces with accelerated schedules
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills

Responsibilities

• Partner with Field Supervision to establish priorities and ensure safety, quality, and schedule performance on interior projects
• Manage fast-track tenant improvement and renovation work in occupied or operational environments
• Lead preconstruction efforts including budgeting, estimating, and value engineering
• Facilitate subcontractor bidding, leveling, and award processes
• Negotiate subcontractor and material buyouts; develop and execute subcontracts
• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules aligned with client occupancy milestones
• Coordinate subcontractors and vendors to maintain tight timelines and high-quality finishes
• Manage project documentation, RFIs, submittals, change orders, and cost tracking
• Forecast and manage project financial performance through completion
• Lead punch list and closeout processes with precision and accountability
• Manage multiple concurrent projects, often ranging from $1M–$20M+
• Build strong relationships and motivate teams through clear direction and collaboration
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients, architects, and consultants
• Mentor and develop junior project management staff
• Communicate effectively across field teams, leadership, and clients
• Promote a culture of accountability, urgency, and client service
• Build and maintain relationships with brokers, property managers, architects, and repeat clients
• Identify and pursue tenant improvement and interior renovation opportunities
• Participate in client presentations and project interviews
• Support efforts to secure repeat and negotiated work

Benefits

• We offer medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance plans, a generous 401k match, and a student loan repayment benefit.
• In addition to paid time off for company holidays, vacation, and personal days, Pepper offers fully paid medical and parental leave, mental health services, and more.

What This Job Offers

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