Job Description
Overview:
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We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to support an active portfolio of engineering projects for a major utility client in the Orange County area. This role is embedded within an established project team and is responsible for leading projects from planning through execution — managing scope, schedule, budget, and quality across concurrent assignments. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator, organized, and experienced working within a utility or large-scale infrastructure environment with direct field involvement.
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Key Responsibilities:
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- Lead and manage utility projects from initiation through closeout — including scoping and project initiation, planning and design, permit and easement acquisition, civil and electrical construction, and closeout activities.
- Provide direction for the project team and stakeholders throughout the entire project lifecycle, ensuring successful delivery across scope, schedule, budget, and quality.
- Ramp up quickly to lead and manage multiple concurrent projects with direct accountability for costs, methods, and outcomes.
- Maintain direct involvement in tasks necessary for successful project execution — identifying problems, developing solutions, and collaborating to establish project objectives, timelines, risk analysis, milestones, and deliverables.
- Utilize project controls to manage budgets and schedules — including forecasting, variance analysis, performance monitoring, identifying trends, and assessing performance against budget targets.
- Coordinate with internal engineering teams, field crews, subcontractors, and stakeholders to drive decisions, resolve issues, and maintain project momentum.
- Resolve issues and ensure task completion by establishing priorities and working through conflicts with team members and functional managers.
- Manage relationships with contractors and vendors, ensuring adherence to project requirements, timelines, and contract terms.
- Prepare and present project status reports, schedule updates, and cost summaries for program leadership and client stakeholders.
- Identify project risks early, develop mitigation strategies, and communicate impacts proactively to the team.
- Support change management activities including scope changes, contract modifications, and budget adjustments.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, procurement, environmental, and permitting teams to keep projects on track.
- Perform other project management duties as needed in support of the broader project team.
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Required Qualifications:
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- Bachelor's degree in an applicable professional, business, or technical discipline — or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
- 5+ years (PM II) or 7+ years (PM III) of project management experience supporting projects in a utility, infrastructure, or engineering environment, with direct field involvement.
- Caltrans and environmental permitting experience required.
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Excel, Teams, Microsoft Project), SAP, and Primavera P6.
- Demonstrated experience managing multiple concurrent projects with accountability for scope, schedule, and budget outcomes.
- Strong understanding of utility standards and compliance requirements.
- Organized, clear communicator who drives actions and resolves issues with urgency.
- Ability to work independently in a hybrid environment with onsite availability as needed.
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Preferred Qualifications:
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- Environmental permitting experience — coastal permits, SWPPP, public lands approvals.
- Utility experience; underground utility experience a plus.
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent.
- Experience supporting electrical engineering, distribution, transmission, or substation projects within a utility environment.
- Experience working within a PMO or program controls environment.
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Perks & Benefits
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- Hybrid — Enhanced work-life balance with our hybrid model combining both remote and in-office work.
- Climbing PTO — Enjoy freedom and flexibility with our annual increasing paid time off.
- Paid Holidays — We observe 9 federal holidays.
- Health & Wellness — We prioritize your physical and mental well-being with health and wellness initiatives and programs.
- Medical & Retirement Benefits — Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, and retirement with company match ensures you and your family's health and future are well-protected.
- Career Growth — Track your career with our robust learning and development opportunities.
- Culture Focused — Thrive in our inclusive, vibrant culture that values diversity, teamwork, and mutual respect.
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