Construction Project Lead Jobs in Iowa

We are a dynamic general contractor closely affiliated with a prominent real estate development firm. Our approach blends the expertise of construction management with the strategic vision of developers, ensuring that every project is executed seamlessly from inception to turnover. Our mission is to enrich the quality of life in our communities by being the leading provider of real estate solutions today and tomorrow by building on our strong foundation of integrity and on our commitment to associates, clients, shareholders, and communities.

Position Summary

The Commercial Construction Project Manager owns the full lifecycle of commercial construction projects from pre-construction and development coordination through construction, closeout, and turnover to our property management team. This role requires a proactive approach and an owner’s mindset to manage project scope, schedule, budget and client relationships while delivering projects that meet or exceed expectations. The Construction Project Manager also supports capital improvement, renovation, and tenant improvement projects within the existing portfolio, ensuring assets are maintained and enhanced in alignment with company objectives. The project manager leads project teams and serves as the primary point of contact for clients, design partners, trade partners and internal stakeholders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Pre-Construction & Project Startup

• Establish the final project budget and review all contract documents for conflicts and completeness.
• Coordinate completion of plans and specifications for construction purposes, working closely with the development team and design consultants.
• Obtain all necessary licenses and permits and facilitate coordination of public utilities.
• Develop the overall project schedule with executive staff, the project team, superintendents and trade partners.
• Prepare final scope requirements by trade and issue subcontracts and purchase orders.

2. Budget & Financial Management:

• Manage project costs and implement cost control procedures throughout the project lifecycle.
• Resolve budge variances and prepare budget revisions to reflect actual projections.
• Review and approve trade partner and vendor payment requests.
• Manage the change of order and claims process from initiation through resolution.
• Identify, evaluate and proactively mitigate project risks that may impact schedule, budget, quality, safety or client satisfaction.
• Develop and implement corrective action plans to address emerging project challenges and minimize operational and financial impacts.
• Monitor project performance and provide timely reporting on key risks, mitigation strategies, and project forecasts.

3. Schedule & Trade Partner Management:

• Direct the master project schedule, monitoring progress and adjusting for procurement, weather and field conditions.
• Facilitate project meetings and drive resolution of schedule-impacting issues.
• Interface with trade partners and suppliers to ensure timely, quality delivery.

4. Team Leadership & Client Relations:

• Supervise any field or office staff assigned to the project.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, client representatives, architects, engineers and all project stakeholders.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for the project, controlling reporting and communication across the team.

5. Quality, Safety and Compliance:

• Assume primary responsibility for overall project quality control in keeping with company standards.
• Enforce safety policies, OSHA regulations, and jobsite standards.
• Ensure work is completed in accordance with contract documents.

6. Project Closeout & Business Development:

• Manage all closeout activities, including punch lists, warranties, closeout documentation and final license/occupancy permits.
• Support the pursuit of third-party business development opportunities where appropriate.
• Coordinate with the property management team on capital improvement, renovation, tenant improvement, and post-turnover maintenance projects.
• Partner with property Management and ownership stakeholders to prioritize, plan, budget, and execute capital improvement initiatives across the existing real estate portfolio enhancement strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering or a related field preferred. Equivalent combination of Education and experience will be considered.
• Five to seven years of experience in commercial construction, including demonstrated experience independently managing project scope, schedule and budget.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, contract structures (including AIA A102/A201, Cost Plus Fee with GMP), and industry best practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and project management software (Procore, Bluebeam, MS Project); Sage 300 CRE experience is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel to project sites.

Success Factors

• Owners’ mindset: treats each project as a long-term investment and balances quality, cost and schedule accordingly.
• Proven leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with clients, trad partners and all levels of staff.
• Ability to think “big picture,” set priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously without losing sight of details.
• Strong negotiation and problem-solving skills, particularly around budget variances and change orders.
• Track record of building trust with clients and trade partners.

Note: This job description describes the general nature and essential functions of the position without including peripheral and incidental duties. Contents of this job description are subject to change at the discretion of the employer. Employees may receive other job-related instructions and be required to perform other job-related work as requested by the manager. All requirements are subject to possible modification to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities.