Underground Construction Manager

Centerline•Rahway, NJ

31d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced and highly organized Construction Manager to oversee multiple directional drilling and underground utility projects across New Jersey and surrounding regions. The Construction Manager will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising all field construction activities to ensure projects are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and to quality standards. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise in horizontal directional drilling (HDD) and underground construction, and the ability to manage multiple crews, subcontractors, and stakeholders across concurrent projects. Penta is a growing telecommunications contractor, providing complete turn-key engineering and project management services for any network communications construction project. Location: Based in Rahway, NJ (travel required throughout NJ, PA, and surrounding areas)

Requirements

5+ years of experience managing underground utility or HDD construction projects (fiber, conduit, or telecom preferred).
Strong understanding of horizontal directional drilling, trenchless construction, and right-of-way regulations.
Proven ability to lead field teams and manage multiple simultaneous projects.
Working knowledge of construction scheduling, budgeting, and cost control.
Ability to read and interpret plans, permits, and utility records.
Excellent organizational and communication skills.
Proficiency with project management tools and MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Nice To Haves

OSHA 30 certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day field operations for directional drilling and utility installation projects, ensuring safe and efficient execution.
Develop and maintain construction schedules, manpower plans, and resource allocations.
Supervise field crews, subcontractors, and inspectors to ensure quality, safety, and productivity standards are met.
Review engineering plans, permits, and customer specifications to confirm compliance and resolve conflicts.
Conduct site walks, pre-construction meetings, and project progress inspections.
Track quantities, production rates, and job costs to ensure accurate billing and financial performance.
Coordinate with project management, engineering, and procurement teams on material orders, logistics, and change orders.
Ensure all work adheres to OSHA standards, environmental regulations, and company safety policies.
Maintain strong communication with clients, municipalities, and utility owners regarding schedules, progress, and field conditions.
Prepare and submit daily/weekly reports, redlines, and as-built documentation.
Support project closeout by overseeing punch lists, restoration, and final acceptance.
Travel regularly to active job sites across NJ, PA, and surrounding areas as needed.