Senior Project Manager (Substations)

Aldridge•Des Plaines, IL

About The Position

Aldridge is seeking an experienced Substation 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 air-insulated switchgear (AIS), with some gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) work in greenfield and brownfield environments. The Senior Project Manager provides leadership and substation technical expertise while managing project safety, planning, scheduling, financials, and execution. The role ensures compliance with contract documents, quality specifications, timelines, and customer requirements; monitors project health and financial performance; and manages communications with customers, subcontractors, vendors, project teams, and partners. The position also includes mentoring and developing direct reports, maintaining project records, and regularly visiting job sites. Aldridge describes its culture as collaborative, family-centered, innovative, and committed to safety, mental wellness, teamwork, and supporting communities affected by its infrastructure projects. The company has over 2,000 industry experts.

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.
At least 10 years of relevant work experience, including at least 6 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.
Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with all organizational levels.
Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Strong time management and prioritization skills, with a record of consistently meeting deadlines.
Adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges.
Ability to travel to job sites.

Responsibilities

Lead assigned substation projects or project scopes, managing safety, planning, scheduling, financials, and execution in accordance with Aldridge’s standard processes and guidelines.
Ensure compliance with contract documents, quality specifications, project timelines, and contractual requirements.
Champion a strong safety culture through proactive leadership and vigilance in identifying and addressing potential safety issues.
Monitor project health using Aldridge’s project management tools and enact changes when required.
Manage projects in accordance with Aldridge’s contract with the customer.
Identify and document the roles and responsibilities of the management team on assigned projects.
Ensure team members are focused on appropriate tasks and 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 contact for the customer, address customer concerns promptly, and protect Aldridge’s interests.
Cultivate strong working relationships and effective teamwork among Aldridge employees and project 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.
Mentor and train direct reports, hold regular performance conversations, set goals, provide feedback, and support their development.