Director, PDS Projects

JLL•Atlanta, GA

1d•Remote

About The Position

As a Senior Project Manager - Construction at JLL, you'll lead the complete lifecycle of retail construction projects for our valued client partners, Family Dollar. This role puts you at the center of transforming retail spaces—managing everything from site preparation and permitting through contractor coordination, construction execution, and final turnover. You'll ensure every project meets exacting standards for quality, schedule, and budget while navigating the complexities of multi-site retail development. At JLL, we are collectively shaping a brighter way for our clients, ourselves, and our fellow employees—and this role exemplifies that commitment through hands-on leadership of fast-paced construction programs. What sets JLL apart is our culture of collaboration, locally and across the globe, which empowers you to drive projects to successful completion while building lasting relationships with contractors, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, architecture, or related field
5+ years of direct experience in commercial or retail construction, with demonstrated expertise managing new store builds and tenant improvement or conversion projects
Deep knowledge of construction processes, permitting requirements, scheduling methodologies, budget management, and trade coordination specific to retail environments
Proficiency with project management tools (Microsoft Project, Excel) and construction platforms (such as Lucernex, Ariba, or similar systems)
Working knowledge of AIA (American Institute of Architects) contract documents and CSI (Construction Specifications Institute) formats and codes
Proven ability to manage multiple contractors simultaneously and coordinate effectively with diverse stakeholders across organizational boundaries
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present complex project information clearly to technical and non-technical audiences
Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% across the continental United States to manage project sites
Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for regional site visits
Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

OSHA 30 certification demonstrating advanced safety training and commitment to workplace safety standards
Experience specifically with Family Dollar, Dollar Tree, or similar discount retail store construction programs
Professional certification such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or CCM (Certified Construction Manager)
Familiarity with lean construction principles and experience implementing value engineering strategies
Track record of successfully managing 10+ concurrent retail construction projects across multiple states or regions

Responsibilities

Lead day-to-day execution of new store opening and conversion projects from pre-construction planning through store turnover, coordinating all activities including permitting, site preparation, utilities, foundation work, buildout, and store readiness
Supervise contractors and subcontractors on-site to ensure quality workmanship, schedule adherence, and strict safety compliance, conducting regular site visits to monitor progress, resolve field issues, and perform pre- and post-construction walkthroughs
Track project budgets and timelines using industry-standard project management tools, managing change orders proactively, identifying cost savings opportunities, and implementing strategies to mitigate schedule delays
Review and manage scopes of work, contractor bids, site drawings, and pre-construction packages to ensure alignment with project requirements and corporate construction standards
Coordinate closely with procurement teams, vendors, and landlords to ensure timely delivery of materials and equipment, while approving project-related invoices and monitoring construction pay applications
Serve as the primary point of contact for city officials, building inspectors, architects, and utility providers, maintaining productive working relationships that facilitate smooth project approvals and execution
Liaise with Real Estate, Operations, Facilities, Legal, and Finance teams throughout the construction lifecycle, providing regular updates to program managers, leadership, and cross-functional stakeholders
Enforce site safety protocols and manage OSHA compliance on all job sites, ensuring every project maintains the highest standards for worker safety and regulatory adherence
Maintain comprehensive project documentation including permits, RFIs, site reports, and closeout packages, ensuring all builds meet national and local building codes as well as corporate construction standards