Project Director (Construction Management)
Vanir Construction Management, Riverside, CA, United States
Project Director
Vanir is a proud minority- and woman-owned company, recognized as a national leader in program, project and construction management (PMCM) and real estate development. Since 1964, we have consistently exceeded client expectations. Ranked as a top PMCM firm by Engineering News-Record (ENR) for more than three decades, our award-winning team provides a full range of services to public and private sector clients in the aviation; healthcare; education (K-12 and higher); justice and essential services; science and technology; state and local government; transportation; water and wastewater; energy; and commercial, residential and nonprofit markets.
Job Description
Sign-On Bonus
About the Role
We're seeking an experienced Project Director to lead complex capital projects and drive both project delivery and business growth. In this role, you'll provide strategic oversight across multiple projects while building strong client relationships and helping secure new work.
This is a high-impact leadership position for someone who thrives in a seller-doer environment, enjoys mentoring teams, and brings deep expertise in construction and program management.
Duties & Responsibilities
Lead Projects & Deliver Results
Oversee multiple projects across sectors such as Healthcare, Education, and Justice
Manage scope, schedule, budget, and overall project performance
Lead construction efforts from pre-design through occupancy
Drive Business Development
Serve as both Business Developer and Project Director, identifying opportunities and cultivating relationships with current and prospective clients.
Lead proposal development, including strategy, staffing, and interview preparation
Serve as a trusted advisor and primary client contact. Represent the company in presentations, public meetings, and industry forums
Program & Construction Management
Oversee program controls (cost, schedule, risk, and performance)
Resolve design and construction challenges and recommend solutions
Ensure compliance with contracts and regulatory requirements
Build & Lead High-Performing Teams
Mentor and develop staff
Lead recruiting, onboarding, and performance management
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and growth
Minimum Qualifications
Experience
10+ years leading public sector or agency projects
3+ years in a business development (seller-doer) role
2+ years as a Project Director or similar leadership role
Proven experience managing the full construction lifecycle
Technical Expertise
Strong background in:
Estimating, cost control, and scheduling
Contract negotiation and project documentation
Experience with tools such as MS Project or Primavera; advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office
Education
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or Architecture
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Design-Build or Progressive Design-Build
Familiarity with BIM and LEED standards
Professional credentials such as:
Licensed Architect or Professional Engineer
CCM, DBIA, or LEED certifications
Benefits
Vanir offers a comprehensive, competitive benefits package that includes 401(k) Savings with employer matching contributions, medical, dental, vision, health savings account (HSA) with employer contributions, life, AD&D and disability benefits, flexible spending account (FSA), voluntary benefits, Teladoc, pet insurance, paid time off, national employee assistance program (EAP) and employee referral program.
Vanir is a proud minority- and woman-owned company, recognized as a national leader in program, project and construction management (PMCM) and real estate development. Since 1964, we have consistently exceeded client expectations. Ranked as a top PMCM firm by Engineering News-Record (ENR) for more than three decades, our award-winning team provides a full range of services to public and private sector clients in the aviation; healthcare; education (K-12 and higher); justice and essential services; science and technology; state and local government; transportation; water and wastewater; energy; and commercial, residential and nonprofit markets.
Job Description
Sign-On Bonus
About the Role
We're seeking an experienced Project Director to lead complex capital projects and drive both project delivery and business growth. In this role, you'll provide strategic oversight across multiple projects while building strong client relationships and helping secure new work.
This is a high-impact leadership position for someone who thrives in a seller-doer environment, enjoys mentoring teams, and brings deep expertise in construction and program management.
Duties & Responsibilities
Lead Projects & Deliver Results
Oversee multiple projects across sectors such as Healthcare, Education, and Justice
Manage scope, schedule, budget, and overall project performance
Lead construction efforts from pre-design through occupancy
Drive Business Development
Serve as both Business Developer and Project Director, identifying opportunities and cultivating relationships with current and prospective clients.
Lead proposal development, including strategy, staffing, and interview preparation
Serve as a trusted advisor and primary client contact. Represent the company in presentations, public meetings, and industry forums
Program & Construction Management
Oversee program controls (cost, schedule, risk, and performance)
Resolve design and construction challenges and recommend solutions
Ensure compliance with contracts and regulatory requirements
Build & Lead High-Performing Teams
Mentor and develop staff
Lead recruiting, onboarding, and performance management
Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and growth
Minimum Qualifications
Experience
10+ years leading public sector or agency projects
3+ years in a business development (seller-doer) role
2+ years as a Project Director or similar leadership role
Proven experience managing the full construction lifecycle
Technical Expertise
Strong background in:
Estimating, cost control, and scheduling
Contract negotiation and project documentation
Experience with tools such as MS Project or Primavera; advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office
Education
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or Architecture
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Design-Build or Progressive Design-Build
Familiarity with BIM and LEED standards
Professional credentials such as:
Licensed Architect or Professional Engineer
CCM, DBIA, or LEED certifications
Benefits
Vanir offers a comprehensive, competitive benefits package that includes 401(k) Savings with employer matching contributions, medical, dental, vision, health savings account (HSA) with employer contributions, life, AD&D and disability benefits, flexible spending account (FSA), voluntary benefits, Teladoc, pet insurance, paid time off, national employee assistance program (EAP) and employee referral program.