Position Summary
The Project Manager I (CM4) is responsible for managing small construction projects or defined scopes of larger projects from pre-construction through closeout. This role represents the transition from project support to independent project ownership, with direct accountability for schedule, budget, subcontractor performance, and client coordination within assigned projects or scopes. The CM4 operates with moderate autonomy while receiving oversight from senior project leadership.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Manage assigned projects or major scopes from pre-construction through closeout
- Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and execution plans
- Coordinate and direct subcontractors, suppliers, and field personnel to meet project milestones
- Review construction drawings, specifications, and contracts to identify scope requirements and conflicts
- Administer RFIs, submittals, and change orders; evaluate cost and schedule impacts
- Track labor productivity, material costs, equipment usage, and overall project financial performance
- Ensure compliance with contract requirements, company standards, and regulatory obligations
- Lead project meetings, including subcontractor coordination and internal planning meetings
- Communicate directly with clients, inspectors, vendors, and consultants regarding assigned projects
- Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement corrective actions
- Coordinate inspections, testing, and closeout documentation
- Mentor and oversee Assistant Project Managers (CM3), Project Coordinators (CM2), and Assistant Coordinators (CM1)
- Perform other project management duties as assigned
Qualifications
- 4–7 years of progressive construction project management or coordination experience
- Demonstrated ability to manage project schedules, budgets, and subcontractors independently
- Strong understanding of construction means and methods
- Ability to read, interpret, and enforce construction drawings, specifications, and contracts
- Strong leadership, organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and construction management software (Procore, Buildertrend, Bluebeam, or equivalent)
Required Certifications and Training
- OSHA 30-hour Construction Safety certification required or ability to obtain
- Company-specific project management and safety training
- Project management certification (CAPM, PMP, or equivalent) preferred but not required
- Trade-specific or technical training beneficial depending on project type
Tools & Technology
- Construction management software for scheduling, cost tracking, document control, and reporting
- Microsoft Office Suite for project documentation and communication
- Company-provided laptop, tablet, and mobile devices for field and office coordination
Experience
- Typically 4–7 years of construction-related experience, including CM3 or equivalent role
- Proven experience managing projects or defined scopes with minimal supervision
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders and manage competing priorities
Physical Requirements
- Combination of office work and frequent site presence
- Ability to safely access and navigate active construction sites, including climbing ladders and stairs
- Must wear required PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, safety vest, steel-toe boots) while on-site
Work Environment
- Office environment combined with regular visits to industrial, commercial, or residential construction sites
- Exposure to mechanical, electrical, structural, and environmental hazards during site visits
- Work hours aligned with project needs, including occasional early mornings, evenings, or weekends
Supervision
- Reports to Project Manager II (CM5) or Senior Project Manager (CM6), depending on project structure
- Provides direct oversight and guidance to CM1–CM3 staff on assigned projects
Safety Expectations
- Follow and enforce all company, client, and regulatory safety policies
- Lead by example in safety compliance and hazard recognition
- Participate in safety meetings, inspections, and incident investigations
- Ensure subcontractor compliance with site safety requirements
Career Progression
- Successful performance can lead to promotion to Project Manager II (CM5), with full responsibility for project execution, financial performance, and client relationships
