Project Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager, Operations Manager

Overview

Why You’ll Love Working Here

Working for the Department of Planning and Development means being part of a dynamic team dedicated to revitalizing and shaping the future of our community. You’ll have the chance to lead transformative projects, partner with local business and civic leaders, and contribute to making Claremont a vibrant place to live, work, and invest. If you thrive in a collaborative, fastmoving environment and are committed to excellence in public service, this role offers meaningful impact and strong professional growth.

Job Summary

Under the direction of the Director of Planning & Development, the Planning & Development Project Manager coordinates and manages assigned development, redevelopment, and infrastructure-related projects for the City. This position focuses on project execution, coordination, scheduling, budget tracking, and compliance, and supports the implementation of City initiatives approved by the Director and City Manager. The Project Manager is not responsible for setting Citywide strategy, but ensures projects are managed effectively—on time, within scope, and in compliance with City policies and funding requirements.

• Manage assigned development, redevelopment, and infrastructure-related projects from initiation through closeout under the direction of the Director.
• Develop and maintain project schedules, scopes of work, budgets, and tracking tools (e.g., Gantt charts, task lists).
• Coordinate project activities across City departments, consultants, contractors, and external partners to ensure timely and compliant execution.
• Monitor project progress, budgets, and deliverables; identify issues and escalate risks or scope changes to the Director.
• Prepare project documentation, status updates, cost estimates, and reports for internal review and decision support.
• Assist with preparation of bid specifications, requests for proposals, and contract documents in accordance with City procurement policies.
• Review contractor invoices and payment requests for accuracy and compliance prior to Director approval.
• Support grant-funded projects by assisting with grant applications, tracking expenditures, maintaining documentation, and preparing compliance reports.
• Conduct research and analysis related to development trends, project feasibility, cost estimates, and funding opportunities.
• Attend project meetings, site visits, and public meetings as assigned; represent the department in a professional and supportive capacity.

This position operates within a defined scope established by the Director of Planning & Development. The Project Manager is responsible for implementing approved projects and supporting departmental initiatives, but does not independently set policy, negotiate development agreements, or represent the City as the final decision-making authority.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in planning, civil engineering, construction management, public administration, business administration, or a related field; plus a minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in project coordination, construction administration, municipal projects, or development-related work. Experience and/or familiarity with common project management methodologies such as Waterfall, Kanban, Agile, or others, is a plus.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

• Knowledge of project coordination principles; basic construction and development practices; grant administration support; municipal procurement processes; and applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, track schedules and budgets, analyze information, prepare clear written reports, communicate effectively with staff, consultants, and the public, and identify issues requiring management review.
• Skill in organizing work, prioritizing tasks, maintaining records, using project tracking tools, and applying Microsoft Office applications and basic project management…