Senior Project Manager

Skender • Chicago, IL

12d

About The Position

We are Skender, a company focused on building communities, relationships, dreams, and careers. We are ambitious, humble, and compassionate, dedicated to building lasting partnerships. Our success is driven by our people, and we seek dynamic, high-energy teammates eager to learn, take ownership, and have fun. Skender started 70 years ago and has grown to two locations with nearly 400 employees, becoming a top 100 construction firm. We have received numerous best-place-to-work awards, reflecting our commitment to our employees. Our core values are Proactive, Refreshing, and True Partner, emphasizing initiative, collaboration, and appreciation.

Requirements

• Eight or more years of project management experience in the built construction world
• 4 year degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or another construction-related field
• Deep understanding of construction industry practices, standards, and their impact on project success
• Strong command of Last Planner System principles and Lean-based production management
• Clear, concise communication tailored to diverse audiences
• Ability to motivate, develop, and lead high-performing teams through effective project and people management
• Strong documentation tendencies – organized, prompt, and meticulously detailed
• Understanding of contract language as it relates to construction activities and planning
• Advanced knowledge of project management and scheduling software for estimating and project management
• Proficient in building construction components and systems for conceptual budgets
• Fluency in the bidding process based on contract documents
• Strong understanding of quantity take-offs, qualification of subcontractor bids, scheduling, general conditions, and any project constraints or coordination issues
• Uses production management principles based on Lean philosophies, and coaches team members on best practices of Lean philosophy
• Possesses a fundamental understanding of planning phase schedules, lookahead schedules, and the key concepts of the last planner system
• Understands planned percent complete (PPC) to track daily tasks

Nice To Haves

• Knows about project management best practices
• Experience establishing budgets
• Experience innovating through construction technology
• Go-getter attitude
• Can assume responsibility
• Can communicate effectively with team, partners, and clients

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of project delivery from contract review through closeout, ensuring budgets, schedules, and documentation meet Skender standards
• Oversee project teams by assigning workload, providing guidance on complex issues, and maintaining consistent communication on project health
• Partner closely with field leadership to plan phasing, logistics, and safety while upholding Skender’s production fundamentals
• Drive the development, maintenance, and execution of master schedules and project financials, including budgets, bids, change orders, and contract adjustments
• Proactively identify design or scope changes, ensure proper documentation, and protect contractual and financial outcomes
• Champion quality and safety by ensuring company programs, procedures, and expectations are followed by all project stakeholders
• Build strong client, architect, and trade partner relationships to support repeat business, uncover future opportunities, and elevate the Skender experience
• Represent Skender in sales pursuits and client presentations with confidence, clarity, and strong business insight
• Mentor, coach, and grow project managers and emerging leaders; conduct performance reviews, support career development, and ensure alignment with company policies and expectations
• Maintain open communication with executive leadership regarding key risks, challenges, and opportunities across all assigned projects
• Model Skender’s values by promoting teamwork, accountability, and pride in our work while upholding policies, compliance requirements, and industry ethical standards
• Track and communicate key project milestones, keeping all stakeholders informed, engaged, and confident in project progress

Benefits

• Skender pays 100% of the premium for health insurance (medical, dental, & vision)
• Annual deposit into health savings account
• Retirement plan with 100% match up to 5% of gross earnings
• Tuition reimbursement for continued learning opportunities
• Employee referral program
• Wellness incentives
• Paid time off
• Parental leave for mothers and fathers
• Free employee assistance program services
• Free short- & long-term disability insurance
• Community involvement

What This Job Offers

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