Construction​/Design Engineer, Senior

State Construction Project Manager (State Design & Construction Engineer Senior) Build Iowa's Future

Every school, public safety facility, office building, laboratory, and state institution begins with thoughtful planning and exceptional project leadership. As a State Construction Project Manager, you'll oversee capital improvement projects that shape the infrastructure supporting millions of Iowans.

In this role, you'll serve as the State of Iowa's representative throughout every phase of a project's lifecycle- from initial concept through design, construction, and final closeout. You'll lead complex projects, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and ensure taxpayer resources are invested wisely while delivering high-quality facilities that serve Iowans for decades to come.

If you're an experienced construction professional who enjoys solving complex challenges, managing multiple projects, and making a lasting impact through public service, we'd love to hear from you.

The Iowa Department of Administrative Services (DAS) provides the essential services that allow state government to operate efficiently and effectively. Within DAS, the State Design & Construction team delivers capital improvement projects that support agencies across Iowa and improve the lives of those who rely on public facilities every day.

Our team manages a diverse portfolio of projects that range from renovations and infrastructure improvements to major new construction initiatives. Every project offers opportunities to collaborate with agency leaders, architects, engineers, contractors, and industry professionals while serving the people of Iowa.

At DAS, you'll find meaningful work, supportive colleagues, professional growth opportunities, and the ability to leave a lasting legacy through the projects you deliver.

As the State Construction Project Manager, you'll serve as the State's designated representative and single point of accountability for assigned capital improvement projects. You'll independently manage approximately 25-35 concurrent projects while balancing scope, budget, schedule, quality, safety, and long-term value.

Responsibilities include:

• Manage projects from planning and design through construction, commissioning, occupancy, and closeout.
• Develop project scopes by evaluating facility conditions, operational needs, and long-term capital priorities.
• Establish project delivery strategies that align with agency goals, available funding, and procurement requirements.
• Ensure successful delivery while maintaining accountability for scope, budget, schedule, quality, and customer satisfaction.

• Serve as the State's advocate throughout the entire project lifecycle.
• Balance cost, quality, schedule, operational needs, maintainability, and long-term value when making project decisions.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and timely communication to agency leadership and project stakeholders.

• Lead procurement and selection of architects, engineers, construction managers, and specialty consultants.
• Oversee consultant performance throughout project delivery.
• Review design documents, coordinate multidisciplinary reviews, and resolve project issues.
• Hold construction managers and contractors accountable for quality, schedule, documentation, and contract compliance.

• Manage public procurement processes and construction contracts in accordance with Iowa law and State policies.
• Monitor project budgets and funding throughout each phase of delivery.
• Evaluate change orders, contractor payment applications, and project expenditures to ensure responsible stewardship of public funds.
• Recommend funding decisions and project priorities based on agency needs and available resources.

• Identify and mitigate project risks related to cost, schedule, quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate with regulatory agencies and code officials to obtain required approvals.
• Ensure construction activities comply with contract documents, applicable codes, and State requirements.

• Serve as the primary liaison between customer agencies, executive leadership, consultants, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
• Facilitate meetings, presentations, and executive briefings.
• Build collaborative relationships while resolving competing priorities and complex project challenges.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader who combines strong technical construction knowledge with exceptional project management and communication skills. Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to:

• Manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Make sound, independent decisions in fast-paced environments.
• Build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Negotiate contracts and resolve challenging project issues.
• Analyze financial impacts and manage project…