Senior Project Manager- Critical Environments

JLL • Chicago, IL

9d • Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Project Manager for Critical Environments leads complex capital projects in mission-critical facilities, including data centers and other critical infrastructure environments, from planning through execution and closeout. The role is accountable for safety, quality, schedule, budget, and client satisfaction, and combines hands-on project delivery with leadership and coaching of assigned variable project managers. The position requires technical knowledge of mission-critical infrastructure, strong project management capabilities, and the ability to build trusted relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and stakeholders.

The position is based on-site in Chicago, Illinois, with regular on-site presence and interaction with clients and contractors at critical facility locations. Regular business hours apply, with availability for critical operations and after-hours support for mission-critical facilities. Visa sponsorship is not provided; candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Engineering Technology, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of project management experience supporting critical environments, mission-critical facilities, or data center infrastructure projects.
• At least 2 years of experience leading, supervising, or mentoring project teams.
• Strong understanding of MEP systems and mission-critical facility infrastructure.
• Expertise in engineering design reviews, construction management, commissioning, and project controls.
• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Proficiency with project management software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, stakeholder management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in fast-paced, client-focused environments.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Professional Engineer (PE) license, Data Center Energy Practitioner (DCEP), Certified Data Centre Professional (CDCP), or similar industry certification.
• Project Management Professional (PMP), Lean Six Sigma, LEED Accreditation, or equivalent professional certification.
• Experience with JLL project delivery platforms, including AdaptiveWork, Ingenious, and E1/Spend.
• Advanced proficiency with Smartsheet, including dashboard development, reporting automation, and resource planning.
• Experience working within large corporate, matrixed, or global organizations.
• Knowledge of local building codes, permitting processes, and regulatory requirements affecting mission-critical facilities.
• Understanding of security, operational resiliency, and business continuity requirements in critical environments.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and decision-making capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead critical environment and data center projects from initiation through closeout, delivering against scope, schedule, budget, and quality objectives.
• Develop and maintain project plans, schedules, budgets, and risk management strategies.
• Identify, evaluate, and proactively mitigate project risks, issues, and obstacles.
• Manage project financial performance, including forecasting, change management, budget controls, and reporting.
• Maintain project documentation, governance requirements, and reporting standards.
• Act as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact for clients and key stakeholders.
• Build working relationships with clients, consultants, vendors, and internal partners.
• Provide project communications, executive updates, and decision support throughout the project lifecycle.
• Facilitate meetings, presentations, and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Provide technical leadership for projects involving electrical systems, mechanical and cooling systems, fire and life safety systems, and building management and monitoring systems.
• Review engineering designs, technical specifications, and construction documents for compliance with project objectives and industry standards.
• Oversee installation quality, commissioning, integrated systems testing, and operational readiness.
• Support troubleshooting and resolution of technical issues during project execution.
• Oversee and coach assigned variable project managers supporting critical environment projects on the account.
• Promote accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional development.
• Conduct coaching and development discussions focused on project management best practices and technical proficiency.
• Share lessons learned and promote standardized processes, tools, and methodologies.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision care
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay
• Supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package prioritizing mental, physical, and emotional health

What This Job Offers

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