Project Director Jobs in California
Project Director jobs in California are among the most active in the country, with strong demand concentrated in technology, construction and infrastructure, healthcare systems, and defense and aerospace across every level from emerging to executive. The largest hiring markets are Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, and San Diego, where employers like Kaiser Permanente, Bechtel, and Apple maintain significant project leadership teams. Certifications such as the PMP and California-specific construction management credentials are consistently emphasized in postings, particularly for roles tied to state infrastructure programs. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 111+ Project Director jobs
Job Description
VTA is seeking an accomplished and strategic leader to serve as Deputy Director, BART Project Controls, supporting the delivery of one of the Bay Area’s most significant capital infrastructure programs. The ideal candidate brings extensive experience leading project controls for large, complex capital projects, with expertise in planning, scheduling, estimating, budgeting, risk management, and project delivery.
This highly visible leadership role will partner closely with executives, internal stakeholders, consultants, contractors, and regional and federal partners to strengthen project controls, align financial strategies, and support successful program delivery. We’re looking for a collaborative, analytical leader who can translate complex project and financial information into clear recommendations, build high-performing teams, and bring accountability, transparency, and innovation to major public infrastructure projects.
About The Office of the General Manager/CEO
VTA’s General Manager/CEO reports directly to VTA’s Board of Directors. The Office of the General Manager/CEO is responsible for overall administration of VTA, oversees VTA’s construction, planning, financial, and capital program efforts and strategies. The Office of the General Manager/CEO is VTA’s Purchasing Agent, executes and implements Real Estate transactions, as authorized by VTA’s Board of Directors, as well as executes grant agreements in accordance with VTA’s Administrative Code or as authorized by VTA’s Board of Directors.
Under direction, the Deputy Director, SVRT/BART Project Controls plans, directs, and manages capital project controls and development activities for the SVRT/BART Capital Program.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This is an At-Will Executive Management position and serves at the discretion of the General Manager/CEO. The incumbent manages VTA staff and consultants responsible for capital project controls and development activities within the SVRT/BART Capital Program, including planning, analysis, estimating, budgeting, and development of implementation plans. Capital project development responsibilities delegated to this position include identifying environmental planning and analysis requirements, developing project definitions and funding plans, and managing the production of information for submittal to funding agencies.
This classification is distinguished from the Project Controls Group Manager in that the latter has overall responsibility for all VTA capital project controls activities. The Deputy Director, SVRT/BART Project Controls manages project controls activities for the SVRT/BART Capital Program, and ensures program compliance with project controls standards, policies, procedures, systems, and initiatives.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a collaborative and strategic executive with extensive experience leading project controls for large, complex capital infrastructure programs. They possess a strong background in capital planning, scheduling, estimating, budgeting, risk management, and project delivery, with demonstrated success overseeing multidisciplinary teams, and consultants.
This leader is comfortable working in close partnership with design, construction, and external affairs executives in a highly visible environment, providing executive-level recommendations, managing competing priorities, and ensuring compliance with project controls standards, policies, and procedures. They have the experience and judgment to partner closely with internal agency stakeholders to synchronize project-wide and agency-wide budgets and financial data. Those internal stakeholders are supportive of the project and its financial strategy; this leader's role will be to deepen the coordination to ensure ongoing success.
They excel at building partnerships with contractors, consultants, and oversight agencies such as the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), BART, and other regional partners.
The successful candidate is an analytical problem solver and effective communicator who can translate complex technical information into clear recommendations for executive leadership and policymakers like the VTA Board of Directors. They have a proven ability to improve project controls processes, leverage technology solutions, manage funding and grant-related activities, and foster accountability while developing high-performing teams. A commitment to collaboration, transparency, innovation, and delivering successful public infrastructure projects is essential.
About VTA
The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority employs more than 2,000 people dedicated to providing solutions that move Silicon Valley. Unique among transportation organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area, VTA is Santa Clara County’s authority for transit development and operations (light rail and bus), congestion management, transportation-related funding, highway design and construction, real estate and transit-oriented development, and bicycle and pedestrian planning. With local, state, and federal partners, VTA works to innovate the way Silicon Valley moves and provide mobility solutions for all.
Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is an independent special district that provides sustainable, accessible, community-focused transportation options that are innovative, environmentally responsible, and promote the vitality of our region.
VTA provides bus, light rail, and paratransit services, as well as participates as a funding partner in regional rail service including Caltrain, Capitol Corridor, and the Altamont Corridor Express.
As the county’s congestion management agency, VTA is responsible for countywide transportation planning, including congestion management, design and construction of specific highway, pedestrian, and bicycle improvement projects, as well as promotion of transit oriented development.
VTA provides these services throughout the county, including Campbell, Cupertino, Gilroy, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Los Gatos, Milpitas, Monte Sereno, Morgan Hill, Mountain View, Palo Alto, San Jose, Santa Clara, Saratoga and Sunnyvale. VTA continually builds partnerships to deliver transportation solutions that meet the evolving mobility needs of Santa Clara County.
For more information about our VTA Forward Plan, visit: https://www.vta.org/VTAForward
Family-Friendly Workplace Certification Program (FFWCP)
The County of Santa Clara FFWCP recognizes VTA as a business that creates supportive workplaces for employees and their families.
Family-friendly workplaces improve health outcomes and job satisfaction for employees and increase work productivity and retention for employers. Employers can create a family-friendly workplace by meeting and exceeding state and federal employment laws relating to parental leave, lactation accommodation, and work/family balance.
Essential Job Functions
- Selects, supervises, trains, motivates, evaluates, counsels and disciplines staff;
- Develops and implements capital project controls standards and procedures, monitors compliance and initiates corrective measures as necessary;
- Monitors capital project planning, scheduling, and reporting activities and ensures compliance with VTA requirements;
- Consults with project managers and division chiefs regarding project planning, scheduling, and reporting;
- Prepares, reviews, and approves detailed correspondence and reports;
- Prepares, reviews, and approves specialized, technical project schedules, charts, and graphs;
- Participates in the development and administration of the SVRT budget, including monitoring expenditures and recommending staffing levels;
- Assists in the development and implementation of technology solutions used to manage project controls;
- Represents VTA before Federal, State, regional and local agencies including the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART);
- Develops and manages project definitions within the SVRT/BART Capital Program;
- Provides guidance and oversight to VTA capital project managers, staff, and consultants;
- Assists in the development of funding plans and facilitates grant funding activities;
- Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of capital project delivery methods and procedures;
- Oversees and participates in the training and development of VTA staff and consultants;
- Performs related duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Sufficient training, education, and public or private sector management/supervisory experience to demonstrate possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Development of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is typically obtained through a combination of training and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a four year degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Economics, Information Systems, or a related field, and extensive, increasingly responsible professional experience in public works projects or the construction industry, including several years of capital project management or supervisory project management experience in a large and diverse organization.
Note: Experience as an accountant will not be accepted in lieu of capital project management and/or engineering experience.
Supplemental Information
Knowledge of:
- Public works project management and project management software applications (e.g. Paragon and Primavera);
- Enterprise resource planning systems as applied to capital project management;
- Principles of management and supervision, employee training and development, motivation, and effective discipline;
- Public sector planning, funding, operations, and construction activities;
- Risk mitigation and monitoring as applied to public works projects;
- Principles and practices of accounting and/or financial planning as related to public works projects;
- Practices and techniques used in capital project planning, funding, and management.
Ability to:
- Direct and manage consultants and subordinate VTA personnel;
- Analyze highly complex data, develop logical solutions to problems, evaluate, recommend and implement alternative solutions to complex issues and problems;
- Prioritize complex and demanding workloads;
- Manage project controls activities for multiple capital projects involving personnel from several departments, as well as consultants and vendors;
- Interface with management on priorities and program definition;
- Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing;
- Effectively represent VTA and VTA's interests before federal, state, regional, and local agencies (e.g. FTA, BART);
- Prepare and present comprehensive reports and recommendations;
- Resolve differences in points of view across multiple processes and organizations;
- Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
General Application Instructions
Please read this job announcement in its entirety before applying. We recommend printing or saving a copy for future reference.
To be considered, applications must be submitted online through the Human Resources department by the posted deadline. If the job posting is listed as “continuous,” we encourage you to apply as soon as possible, as the posting may close without prior notice. Once your application is submitted, you will receive an immediate email confirmation.
Personalized responses to Supplemental Questions that connect your past experiences to this specific role are the most effective. AI-generated content may lack the specificity required to address the key criteria outlined in the job description. While we encourage the use of AI as a tool to enhance your work, we want to evaluate your non-AI-assisted communication skills. You may use AI to generate ideas, but please ensure your final responses are in your own voice and reflect your unique experience. Overreliance on AI-generated content is discouraged and may diminish your chances of success.
Important: Only online applications will be accepted for this recruitment. We do not accept paper applications, resumes, Job Interest Notification Cards, or incomplete/unsubmitted applications in place of a fully completed application.
Communication & Contact Information
All updates regarding your application—including notices for testing and interviews—will be sent via email. Be sure to select email as your preferred method of communication and maintain a valid, up-to-date email address. Applicants are also responsible for keeping their phone numbers and mailing addresses current in their online profiles.
Due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to provide individual updates. Please check your application status through your online account. For technical support, contact NEOGOV at (855) 524-5627, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (PST), excluding holidays.
Application Review & Processing
All current and prior relevant work experience—including experience with VTA—must be fully detailed in the Work Experience section of your application. Entries such as “see resume” are not acceptable. Incomplete or improperly completed applications may be rejected, even if you meet the minimum qualifications.
While you are welcome to upload a resume, it does not substitute for completing the online application in full. Be sure that your application accurately reflects the education and experience necessary for the position.
Applications are reviewed throughout the recruitment process to determine whether candidates meet the minimum qualifications. Meeting these minimums or advancing through any stage does not guarantee further consideration. Any misrepresentation or falsification of qualifications, experience, education, or training may result in disqualification and/or exclusion from future employment opportunities with VTA.
This classification is non-represented and is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment are governed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement between VTA and the union.
Tentative Examinations:
Oral Panel: End of October
Conditions of Employment
Final candidates must successfully complete a Livescan background check, reference checks, verification of education or certifications, and a criminal history review before appointment.
For safety-sensitive positions, VTA requires all safety-sensitive positions to have a 6-month DOT physical clearance. Obtained at the time of preboarding from a VTA-contracted Concentra Location.
Eligibility List
The established Eligible List from this recruitment will be used to fill the current vacancies and additional vacancies that may occur. Eligible Lists typically remain in effect for six (6) months. However, Human Resources may abolish Eligible Lists at any time during the six (6) month period. Human Resources may extend eligible Lists for up to two (2) years. Eligible Lists may be used for more than one recruitment.
Americans with Disabilities Act Accommodations
VTA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities in the recruitment and examination process. To request an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department at (408) 321-5575 or email Personnel@vta.org at least five business days before the test.
Veterans’ Preference Program
VTA welcomes and encourages the employment of veterans of the United States Armed Forces. Qualified veterans may be eligible to receive additional veterans’ preference credit in the selection process for this recruitment.
To be considered for Veterans’ Preference credit, please attach a PDF copy of your DD Form 214 (Service Copy 2) or other official discharge documentation showing your enlistment and discharge dates and character of service (i.e., type of discharge) in the “Attachments” section of your application. Applicants requesting preference based on a service-connected disability, please submit Standard Form 15 (SF-15) along with any required supporting documentation.
Veterans’ Preference credit will only be applied after the required documentation has been received and eligibility has been verified.
Equal Employment Opportunity
VTA is an equal employment opportunity employer. VTA does not and will not tolerate discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age, ancestry, color, marital status, mental or physical disability, genetic information, national, origin, immigration status, political affiliation, race, religion, creed, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, medical condition, disabled veteran or veteran status, etc.
Job Description
VTA is seeking an accomplished and strategic leader to serve as Deputy Director, BART Project Controls, supporting the delivery of one of the Bay Area’s most significant capital infrastructure programs. The ideal candidate brings extensive experience leading project controls for large, complex capital projects, with expertise in planning, scheduling, estimating, budgeting, risk management, and project delivery.
This highly visible leadership role will partner closely with executives, internal stakeholders, consultants, contractors, and regional and federal partners to strengthen project controls, align financial strategies, and support successful program delivery. We’re looking for a collaborative, analytical leader who can translate complex project and financial information into clear recommendations, build high-performing teams, and bring accountability, transparency, and innovation to major public infrastructure projects.
About The Office of the General Manager/CEO
VTA’s General Manager/CEO reports directly to VTA’s Board of Directors. The Office of the General Manager/CEO is responsible for overall administration of VTA, oversees VTA’s construction, planning, financial, and capital program efforts and strategies. The Office of the General Manager/CEO is VTA’s Purchasing Agent, executes and implements Real Estate transactions, as authorized by VTA’s Board of Directors, as well as executes grant agreements in accordance with VTA’s Administrative Code or as authorized by VTA’s Board of Directors.
Under direction, the Deputy Director, SVRT/BART Project Controls plans, directs, and manages capital project controls and development activities for the SVRT/BART Capital Program.
Distinguishing Characteristics
This is an At-Will Executive Management position and serves at the discretion of the General Manager/CEO. The incumbent manages VTA staff and consultants responsible for capital project controls and development activities within the SVRT/BART Capital Program, including planning, analysis, estimating, budgeting, and development of implementation plans. Capital project development responsibilities delegated to this position include identifying environmental planning and analysis requirements, developing project definitions and funding plans, and managing the production of information for submittal to funding agencies.
This classification is distinguished from the Project Controls Group Manager in that the latter has overall responsibility for all VTA capital project controls activities. The Deputy Director, SVRT/BART Project Controls manages project controls activities for the SVRT/BART Capital Program, and ensures program compliance with project controls standards, policies, procedures, systems, and initiatives.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a collaborative and strategic executive with extensive experience leading project controls for large, complex capital infrastructure programs. They possess a strong background in capital planning, scheduling, estimating, budgeting, risk management, and project delivery, with demonstrated success overseeing multidisciplinary teams, and consultants.
This leader is comfortable working in close partnership with design, construction, and external affairs executives in a highly visible environment, providing executive-level recommendations, managing competing priorities, and ensuring compliance with project controls standards, policies, and procedures. They have the experience and judgment to partner closely with internal agency stakeholders to synchronize project-wide and agency-wide budgets and financial data. Those internal stakeholders are supportive of the project and its financial strategy; this leader's role will be to deepen the coordination to ensure ongoing success.
They excel at building partnerships with contractors, consultants, and oversight agencies such as the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), BART, and other regional partners.
The successful candidate is an analytical problem solver and effective communicator who can translate complex technical information into clear recommendations for executive leadership and policymakers like the VTA Board of Directors. They have a proven ability to improve project controls processes, leverage technology solutions, manage funding and grant-related activities, and foster accountability while developing high-performing teams. A commitment to collaboration, transparency, innovation, and delivering successful public infrastructure projects is essential.
About VTA
The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority employs more than 2,000 people dedicated to providing solutions that move Silicon Valley. Unique among transportation organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area, VTA is Santa Clara County’s authority for transit development and operations (light rail and bus), congestion management, transportation-related funding, highway design and construction, real estate and transit-oriented development, and bicycle and pedestrian planning. With local, state, and federal partners, VTA works to innovate the way Silicon Valley moves and provide mobility solutions for all.
Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is an independent special district that provides sustainable, accessible, community-focused transportation options that are innovative, environmentally responsible, and promote the vitality of our region.
VTA provides bus, light rail, and paratransit services, as well as participates as a funding partner in regional rail service including Caltrain, Capitol Corridor, and the Altamont Corridor Express.
As the county’s congestion management agency, VTA is responsible for countywide transportation planning, including congestion management, design and construction of specific highway, pedestrian, and bicycle improvement projects, as well as promotion of transit oriented development.
VTA provides these services throughout the county, including Campbell, Cupertino, Gilroy, Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, Los Gatos, Milpitas, Monte Sereno, Morgan Hill, Mountain View, Palo Alto, San Jose, Santa Clara, Saratoga and Sunnyvale. VTA continually builds partnerships to deliver transportation solutions that meet the evolving mobility needs of Santa Clara County.
For more information about our VTA Forward Plan, visit: https://www.vta.org/VTAForward
Family-Friendly Workplace Certification Program (FFWCP)
The County of Santa Clara FFWCP recognizes VTA as a business that creates supportive workplaces for employees and their families.
Family-friendly workplaces improve health outcomes and job satisfaction for employees and increase work productivity and retention for employers. Employers can create a family-friendly workplace by meeting and exceeding state and federal employment laws relating to parental leave, lactation accommodation, and work/family balance.
Essential Job Functions
- Selects, supervises, trains, motivates, evaluates, counsels and disciplines staff;
- Develops and implements capital project controls standards and procedures, monitors compliance and initiates corrective measures as necessary;
- Monitors capital project planning, scheduling, and reporting activities and ensures compliance with VTA requirements;
- Consults with project managers and division chiefs regarding project planning, scheduling, and reporting;
- Prepares, reviews, and approves detailed correspondence and reports;
- Prepares, reviews, and approves specialized, technical project schedules, charts, and graphs;
- Participates in the development and administration of the SVRT budget, including monitoring expenditures and recommending staffing levels;
- Assists in the development and implementation of technology solutions used to manage project controls;
- Represents VTA before Federal, State, regional and local agencies including the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART);
- Develops and manages project definitions within the SVRT/BART Capital Program;
- Provides guidance and oversight to VTA capital project managers, staff, and consultants;
- Assists in the development of funding plans and facilitates grant funding activities;
- Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of capital project delivery methods and procedures;
- Oversees and participates in the training and development of VTA staff and consultants;
- Performs related duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Sufficient training, education, and public or private sector management/supervisory experience to demonstrate possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Development of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is typically obtained through a combination of training and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a four year degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Economics, Information Systems, or a related field, and extensive, increasingly responsible professional experience in public works projects or the construction industry, including several years of capital project management or supervisory project management experience in a large and diverse organization.
Note: Experience as an accountant will not be accepted in lieu of capital project management and/or engineering experience.
Supplemental Information
Knowledge of:
- Public works project management and project management software applications (e.g. Paragon and Primavera);
- Enterprise resource planning systems as applied to capital project management;
- Principles of management and supervision, employee training and development, motivation, and effective discipline;
- Public sector planning, funding, operations, and construction activities;
- Risk mitigation and monitoring as applied to public works projects;
- Principles and practices of accounting and/or financial planning as related to public works projects;
- Practices and techniques used in capital project planning, funding, and management.
Ability to:
- Direct and manage consultants and subordinate VTA personnel;
- Analyze highly complex data, develop logical solutions to problems, evaluate, recommend and implement alternative solutions to complex issues and problems;
- Prioritize complex and demanding workloads;
- Manage project controls activities for multiple capital projects involving personnel from several departments, as well as consultants and vendors;
- Interface with management on priorities and program definition;
- Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing;
- Effectively represent VTA and VTA's interests before federal, state, regional, and local agencies (e.g. FTA, BART);
- Prepare and present comprehensive reports and recommendations;
- Resolve differences in points of view across multiple processes and organizations;
- Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
General Application Instructions
Please read this job announcement in its entirety before applying. We recommend printing or saving a copy for future reference.
To be considered, applications must be submitted online through the Human Resources department by the posted deadline. If the job posting is listed as “continuous,” we encourage you to apply as soon as possible, as the posting may close without prior notice. Once your application is submitted, you will receive an immediate email confirmation.
Personalized responses to Supplemental Questions that connect your past experiences to this specific role are the most effective. AI-generated content may lack the specificity required to address the key criteria outlined in the job description. While we encourage the use of AI as a tool to enhance your work, we want to evaluate your non-AI-assisted communication skills. You may use AI to generate ideas, but please ensure your final responses are in your own voice and reflect your unique experience. Overreliance on AI-generated content is discouraged and may diminish your chances of success.
Important: Only online applications will be accepted for this recruitment. We do not accept paper applications, resumes, Job Interest Notification Cards, or incomplete/unsubmitted applications in place of a fully completed application.
Communication & Contact Information
All updates regarding your application—including notices for testing and interviews—will be sent via email. Be sure to select email as your preferred method of communication and maintain a valid, up-to-date email address. Applicants are also responsible for keeping their phone numbers and mailing addresses current in their online profiles.
Due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to provide individual updates. Please check your application status through your online account. For technical support, contact NEOGOV at (855) 524-5627, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (PST), excluding holidays.
Application Review & Processing
All current and prior relevant work experience—including experience with VTA—must be fully detailed in the Work Experience section of your application. Entries such as “see resume” are not acceptable. Incomplete or improperly completed applications may be rejected, even if you meet the minimum qualifications.
While you are welcome to upload a resume, it does not substitute for completing the online application in full. Be sure that your application accurately reflects the education and experience necessary for the position.
Applications are reviewed throughout the recruitment process to determine whether candidates meet the minimum qualifications. Meeting these minimums or advancing through any stage does not guarantee further consideration. Any misrepresentation or falsification of qualifications, experience, education, or training may result in disqualification and/or exclusion from future employment opportunities with VTA.
This classification is non-represented and is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment are governed by the applicable collective bargaining agreement between VTA and the union.
Tentative Examinations:
Oral Panel: End of October
Conditions of Employment
Final candidates must successfully complete a Livescan background check, reference checks, verification of education or certifications, and a criminal history review before appointment.
For safety-sensitive positions, VTA requires all safety-sensitive positions to have a 6-month DOT physical clearance. Obtained at the time of preboarding from a VTA-contracted Concentra Location.
Eligibility List
The established Eligible List from this recruitment will be used to fill the current vacancies and additional vacancies that may occur. Eligible Lists typically remain in effect for six (6) months. However, Human Resources may abolish Eligible Lists at any time during the six (6) month period. Human Resources may extend eligible Lists for up to two (2) years. Eligible Lists may be used for more than one recruitment.
Americans with Disabilities Act Accommodations
VTA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities in the recruitment and examination process. To request an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department at (408) 321-5575 or email Personnel@vta.org at least five business days before the test.
Veterans’ Preference Program
VTA welcomes and encourages the employment of veterans of the United States Armed Forces. Qualified veterans may be eligible to receive additional veterans’ preference credit in the selection process for this recruitment.
To be considered for Veterans’ Preference credit, please attach a PDF copy of your DD Form 214 (Service Copy 2) or other official discharge documentation showing your enlistment and discharge dates and character of service (i.e., type of discharge) in the “Attachments” section of your application. Applicants requesting preference based on a service-connected disability, please submit Standard Form 15 (SF-15) along with any required supporting documentation.
Veterans’ Preference credit will only be applied after the required documentation has been received and eligibility has been verified.
Equal Employment Opportunity
VTA is an equal employment opportunity employer. VTA does not and will not tolerate discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age, ancestry, color, marital status, mental or physical disability, genetic information, national, origin, immigration status, political affiliation, race, religion, creed, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, medical condition, disabled veteran or veteran status, etc.
See All 111+ Project Director Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Project Director JobsProject Director Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Project Director Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- GHD12
- BKF Engineers8
- Turner & Townsend Pty Limited5
- Kennedy/Jenks Consultants4
- Career TEAM3
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services21
- Construction & Real Estate5
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals5
- Technology & Software3
- Staffing & Recruiting2
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in project director jobs across California.
- PMP or equivalent project management certification recognized in California required
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, business, construction management, or related field required
- Minimum eight to twelve years of progressive project management experience across large programs
- Demonstrated ability to manage cross-functional teams and enterprise-level project budgets
- Experience with California-specific regulatory environments including CEQA or state procurement rules
- Proficiency with project management platforms such as MS Project, Primavera, or Smartsheet
Project Director Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a project director in California?
Most project directors in California follow a path that combines a bachelor's degree in engineering, business, or a related field with progressive team leadership experience and a Project Management Professional credential. Construction-focused roles often require familiarity with California Environmental Quality Act processes and, for public works, compliance with state contractor licensing requirements overseen by the Contractors State License Board. Industry experience and demonstrated delivery of complex programs carry more weight than any single credential.
How much do project directors make in California?
Project directors in California earn a median of about $120,910 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $69,180 for the lowest 10% to over $188,560 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire project directors in California?
Employers hiring project directors in California right now include GHD, BKF Engineers, and Turner & Townsend Pty Limited, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. California's concentration of large technology headquarters, healthcare networks, and major infrastructure contractors means openings appear across a wide range of industries and project types.
Which California cities have the most project director jobs?
Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Irvine consistently post the most project director openings in California. The San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles lead because of their density of technology headquarters, large health systems, and major construction programs, while San Diego draws significant volume from its defense contractor and biotech clusters, which run ongoing multi-year projects that require senior oversight.
Are there remote project director jobs in California?
Yes, though they are less common than for purely desk-based roles. About 62% of project director openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, reflecting the fact that many programs require on-site coordination with construction crews, clinical teams, or hardware. The portions of the role most likely to be performed remotely include stakeholder reporting, budget management, and planning work.
How can I get hired as a project director in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is securing a project coordinator or project manager role at a large California employer such as a major health system, a general contractor working on state infrastructure, or a Bay Area technology company, then building toward director-level scope. Kaiser Permanente, Caltrans programs, and large construction firms run structured project management development programs. Earning a CAPM credential and gaining exposure to California-specific compliance frameworks, including CEQA for construction and regulated industries, helps candidates stand out early.
Where can I find and apply to project director jobs in California?
You can find and apply to project director jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings from employers actively hiring. Find roles that match your background and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 111+ Project Director Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Project Director Jobs