Project Manager - Underground Utilities

Ella SA Contracting•San Antonio, TX

About The Position

Ella Contracting is seeking a Project Manager to plan, coordinate, and oversee underground utility construction projects involving water, sewer, storm drainage, telecom, and other underground infrastructure. The Project Manager ensures projects are completed on time and within budget while managing changes and meeting quality and safety standards. The role oversees project planning, budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, field coordination, utility permitting, quality assurance, safety, risk management, subcontractors, documentation, materials, progress reporting, and administrative requirements. The Project Manager provides high-level direction to the Superintendent, resolves major field conflicts, and communicates client feedback for the Superintendent’s awareness. The position may involve travel to job sites as needed.

Requirements

Proven experience in underground utility construction or a similar industry.
Strong understanding of underground utility systems, materials, and construction methods.
Proficiency in project management software, including Heavy Job, Heavy Big, and Foundation.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal construction regulations.
Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to job sites as needed.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (preferred).
Professional Engineering (PE) license or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
Experience working with GIS mapping tools and utility locating technology.
Familiarity with green infrastructure or sustainable construction practices.
Experience with estimating software and plans, including Planswift, Heavy Bid, and HCSS Plans.

Responsibilities

Develop overall utility installation plans, including sequencing, phasing, and execution strategy.
Create and manage project budgets, track labor, equipment, and material costs, and approve expenditures.
Develop master schedules and key milestones for excavation, pipe installation, testing, subcontractor mobilization, restoration, and related work.
Allocate crews, subcontractors, heavy equipment, and major material orders.
Provide high-level direction to the Superintendent, resolve major field conflicts, and communicate client feedback to the Superintendent.
Oversee permitting strategy and compliance with city and municipal requirements.
Ensure adherence to project specifications, including pipe grade, compaction, pressure testing, and inspections.
Enforce company safety policies and ensure compliance with OSHA standards.
Identify major project risks, including unknown utilities, soil conditions, and weather delays, and develop mitigation plans.
Manage subcontractor contracts, scope, and performance.
Review and approve critical project documentation and reports.
Approve major material purchases and vendor agreements.
Review production, monitor installed quantities, report to stakeholders, and evaluate deficiencies and strategies to overcome them.
Oversee project administration and reporting requirements and schedule meetings or reviews as appropriate.