Construction & Design Project Manager

General Summary

The Construction & Design Project Manager position leads the City's construction and design efforts, ensuring successful delivery of high-quality capital projects within budget and schedule. This role is hands-on, results-oriented with strong leadership skills, technical expertise, and the ability to prioritize and manage a diverse portfolio of projects within a $3-million annual construction budget, and the implementation of a General Obligation Bond and involvement in private sector development projects within the City. Primary oversight for Capital Improvement Program (CIP), responsible for developing, managing, and monitoring the annual CIP, ensuring alignment with City goals and strategic priorities.

Supervision Received & Exercised

The Construction & Design Project Manager position exercises no supervision and works under the general supervision of the Director of Public Works & Capital Improvements. This position is classified as an exempt, full-time position.

Duties & Responsibilities

Project Management & Oversight

Oversee all phases of construction projects, including planning, design, bidding, construction, and closeout. Manage project budgets, schedules, and contracts with contractors and consultants. Conduct regular site inspections to ensure quality, safety, and compliance with plans and specifications. Resolve project issues and disputes effectively and efficiently. Oversee on-demand transportation program and ensure compliance with Citizen’s Independent Transportation Trust requirements. Performs other duties assigned or as needed.

Construction Administration

Prepare and administer construction contracts, including change orders, RFIs, and submittals. Conduct pre-construction meetings and maintain comprehensive project documentation. Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, permits, and safety standards.

Design & Engineering

Oversee the design and engineering of various infrastructure projects, including roads, sidewalks, drainage, parks, and public facilities. Collaborate with engineers, architects, and other consultants to develop and refine project plans. Utilize CAD software and other design tools to support project development. Possess strong technical knowledge of civil engineering principles, construction methods, and materials. Stay abreast of industry’s best practices, new technologies, and emerging trends in construction and design.

Community Engagement & Communication

Public Outreach

Communicate effectively with the public, elected officials, and stakeholders on project progress, challenges, and benefits. Conduct public meetings and workshops to gather input and address community concerns.

Stakeholder Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with contractors, consultants, regulatory agencies, and other key stakeholders.

Administrative & Financial

Budget Management

Prepare and manage the department's budget, including tracking expenditures, forecasting costs, and identifying potential cost savings. Manage grant applications and funding sources to support capital projects.

Record Keeping

Maintain accurate and complete project records, including plans, specifications, contracts, and as-built drawings. Prepare reports and presentations on project status, budget performance, and other key metrics, as well as grants reporting.

Performs other duties assigned or as needed.

Minimum Qualifications Required

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, or related field required.
• Proven experience managing complex construction projects with budgets exceeding $3-million.
• Minimum of five (5) years of related experience in civil engineering, construction administration, project management, or related field required.
• Strong understanding of local, state, and federal regulations related to construction and design.
• Proficiency in CAD software and other relevant software applications.
• Professional Engineer Certification (PE) preferred.
• Must possess a valid State of Florida driver’s license with an acceptable driving record.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Key Competencies

• Demonstrated leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Builds high-performing teams.
• Fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Technical Expertise

• Demonstrates in-depth knowledge of construction and design principles.
• Stays current on industry best practices and emerging technologies.
• Effectively plans, executes, and monitors projects within budget and schedule.
• Identifies and mitigates risks.
• Ensures project quality and safety.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

• Communicates effectively with diverse audiences.
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Resolves conflicts effectively and diplomatically.

The City of South Miami provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, the City of South Miami complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.