Project Manager - Data Center Builds

Project Manager (Chicago)

Summary / Objective

The Project Manager is responsible for leading the successful delivery of complex mission-critical projects from start to finish. This role oversees all aspects of project execution — including planning, scheduling, budgeting, team coordination, client communication, and risk mitigation — to ensure on-time, on-budget, and high-quality outcomes.

Project Managers are hands-on leaders and strategic thinkers. They act as the primary liaison between clients, internal teams, and subcontractors while driving execution across mechanical, electrical, structural, and commissioning scopes. This is a pivotal role for someone who thrives on building strong teams, solving complex challenges, and delivering results in a fast-paced, high-impact environment.

Essential Functions

1. Project Planning & Execution

• Lead end-to-end project delivery for mission-critical infrastructure, data center builds, and specialty construction projects.

• Develop comprehensive project plans, schedules, budgets, and resource allocations.

• Define project scope, goals, and deliverables in alignment with client requirements and company objectives.

• Ensure all work is performed in compliance with specifications, codes, safety standards, and quality expectations.

• Manage project closeout activities including punch list completion, turnover documentation, commissioning support, and lessons-learned reviews.

2. Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Coordinate cross-functional project teams including mechanical, electrical, structural, controls, commissioning, and field operations personnel.

• Mentor, coach, and support project engineers, field leads, and other team members to drive performance and professional growth.

• Foster a collaborative project environment that emphasizes communication, accountability, and continuous improvement.

3. Client & Stakeholder Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, building trust through proactive communication, transparency, and responsiveness.

• Manage expectations, provide regular status updates, and resolve issues to ensure alignment on project goals and outcomes.

• Represent Compu Dynamics in meetings, presentations, and negotiations with clients, partners, and vendors.

4. Risk, Budget & Performance Management

• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks; develop contingency plans to address potential challenges.

• Oversee project budgets, monitor financial performance, track cost forecasts, and report on variances.

• Manage procurement activities, vendor negotiations, contracts, and change orders in coordination with internal stakeholders.

• Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress and ensure adherence to safety, quality, and schedule.

5. Process Improvement & Reporting

• Facilitate project meetings, prepare meeting minutes, and track action items.

• Maintain accurate and organized project documentation including drawings, submittals, RFIs, permits, and as-builts.

• Contribute to refining project delivery standards, processes, and tools to improve efficiency and consistency across the organization.

Competencies

• Entrepreneurial Mindset – Takes initiative, embraces ownership, and thrives in ambiguity.

• Execution Excellence – Delivers results by prioritizing, organizing, and driving tasks forward.

• Strategic Thinking – Balances big-picture vision with detailed execution.

• Collaboration & Influence – Builds trust, fosters teamwork, and drives alignment across diverse stakeholders.

• Adaptability & Resilience – Stays agile in dynamic conditions and pivots effectively when priorities shift.

• Integrity & Accountability – Follows through on commitments and takes ownership of results.

• Client Focus – Anticipates client needs, builds strong relationships, and delivers exceptional service.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field — or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• 5+ years of project management experience in mission-critical, data center, or large-scale infrastructure construction.

• Strong working knowledge of mechanical, electrical, structural, and commissioning systems (HVAC, power distribution, cooling, controls).

• Proven track record of delivering complex, multi-discipline projects on time and within budget.

• Proficiency with project management software (MS Project, Primavera, etc.) and standard business tools (Excel, PowerPoint).

• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

• Willingness and ability to travel to project sites as needed.

• Commitment to safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Preferred Qualifications

• PMP, PMI-ACP, or equivalent project management certification.

• Experience in cleared, government, or high-security environments.

• Experience leading projects across multiple geographic markets or remote sites.

• Familiarity with modular and prefabricated data center systems.

• Background in hiring, mentoring, and developing project teams.