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Project Manager

Nelson Connects, Santa Rosa, CA, United States


Compensation:

$125,000 – $185,000 DOE + Employee Stock Option Plan + Bonus + Gas Card + Car Allowance + Benefits
About the Role

We're looking for a Project Manager to own the full lifecycle of underground utility construction projects — water, sewer, and storm drain — from kickoff to closeout. This isn't a desk job. You'll be running the business side of active heavy civil projects while staying close to the field, managing your team, and keeping clients informed every step of the way.
If you know how to build underground infrastructure and run a project like a business, we want to talk.
What You'll Do

Project Execution

Build and manage the project schedule from day one
Prepare and execute the Project Execution Plan
Oversee cost control, change management, and monthly financial reporting
Manage the permit process and coordinate with local municipalities and utility agencies
Prepare subcontracts, purchase orders, and oversee procurement
Review and approve subcontractor pay applications with the Superintendent
Ensure monthly pay applications are submitted when costs are incurred
Oversee project closeout and manage the warranty period with the owner
Team & Field Leadership

Direct and mentor on-site staff including Project Engineers and field crews
Develop and maintain the site logistics plan with the Superintendent
Oversee the site safety manager and enforce the Safety and Health program
Set up QA/QC procedures and conduct quality inspections
Demonstrate a commitment to an injury-free jobsite every day
Client & Stakeholder Management

Serve as the primary owner contact throughout the project and post-construction
Maintain relationships with clients, designers, consultants, and agencies
Coordinate with utility agencies on existing utilities, relocations, and tie-ins
Lead and attend project meetings including pre-construction, progress, and pre-award
Prepare monthly client status reports as required
What You Bring

5+ years of heavy civil construction experience, with a focus on underground utility projects — water, sewer, storm drain
Experience managing project budgets, change orders, pay applications, and financial reporting
Working knowledge of Lump Sum and Unit Price contracts
Strong communication skills — you're comfortable leading a meeting with a city engineer or presenting to ownership
Familiarity with trenching, shoring, dewatering, and wet utility installation methods
Ability to develop and lead a team of varied disciplines
Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management — or equivalent experience
Why Join Us

We've been building Northern California's infrastructure for over a century. We're 100% employee-owned — meaning when the company does well, so do you. The ESOP isn't a perk buried in the fine print; it's a real wealth-building tool that long-tenured employees will tell you makes a meaningful difference over time.
Our PMs have real authority, real support, and a team around them that's invested in getting the job done right.

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