Senior Project Manager (Substations)

Aldridge Group•Des Plaines, IL

10d•$130,000 - $190,000

About The Position

Aldridge is seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead a diverse portfolio of substation projects in Des Plaines, Illinois. The portfolio includes transmission, distribution, and collector substations and switchyards, primarily using AIS technology, as well as GIS work in greenfield and brownfield environments. The role requires leadership, substation technical expertise, and project management skills to ensure compliance with contract documents, quality specifications, safety expectations, and project timelines. The Senior Project Manager manages assigned projects or project scopes using Aldridge’s standard processes and guidelines, overseeing safety, planning, scheduling, financials, and execution. The role includes leading and developing direct reports, monitoring project health, managing customer and partner relationships, overseeing subcontractors and vendors, and maintaining accurate project records. Regular project-site visits are required. The position is based in Des Plaines, IL, with travel to job sites. The annual base pay range is $130,000–$190,000, with actual pay dependent on factors including location, experience, education, training, transferable skills, business needs, and market conditions. The role may also be eligible for a bonus. Aldridge offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Business Management, or another construction-related major; equivalent construction or union trade background is also considered.
10 or more years of relevant work experience, including 6 or more years on substation projects.
Knowledge and understanding of electrical, mechanical, structural, civil, and architectural plans as they relate to schedules, cost, and performance.
Proficiency in estimating, scheduling, budgeting costs, field supervision, financial reporting, and client relationships.
Proficiency in Google Suite, Primavera Project and Contract Management, and Bluebeam.
Effective leadership and team management abilities.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with all levels of the organization.
Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Strong time management and prioritization skills, with a consistent ability to meet deadlines.
Adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges.
Ability to travel to job sites.

Responsibilities

Champion a strong safety culture on assigned projects through proactive leadership and vigilance in identifying and addressing potential safety issues.
Mentor and train direct reports, and hold regular performance conversations to set goals, provide feedback, and support development.
Manage all facets of assigned projects or scopes—including safety, planning, scheduling, financials, and execution—using Aldridge’s standard processes and guidelines.
Monitor project health using Aldridge’s project management tools and enact changes when required.
Manage projects in accordance with Aldridge’s customer contract.
Identify and document management-team roles and responsibilities on assigned projects.
Ensure team members focus on the correct tasks while executing the project vision.
Own financial tracking and reporting for assigned projects or scopes.
Develop and monitor cash flow plans to maintain a positive cash position on projects.
Proactively manage subcontractors and vendors, including safety, work planning, scheduling, and payments.
Serve as a project communication point of contact for the customer.
Address customer concerns promptly while protecting Aldridge’s interests.
Ensure plans are in place to meet contractual requirements for assigned projects.
Cultivate strong working relationships and effective teamwork among Aldridge and its partners.
Visit project sites regularly to support planning, monitor progress, and develop internal and external relationships.
Maintain accurate, current, and complete records for assigned projects.