Project Director, Institutional - Education | Project & Construction Management Consultancy | Glendale, Los

Position: Project Director, Institutional - Education Sector | Project & Construction Management Consultancy | Glendale, Los
Project Director (K-14) - Los Angeles, CA

Salary Range: $170,000-$185,000 annually

Work Location:

Los Angeles, CA (on-site or hybrid as applicable)

Overview

The Project Director will lead the delivery of K-14 public education construction programs from planning through closeout, serving as the owner's representative. This role oversees multiple project teams and is responsible for managing scope, schedule, and budget while ensuring compliance with all design and construction standards, including DSA requirements. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in educational facility construction, exceptional stakeholder communication skills, and a proven track record of successfully delivering complex capital programs in public agency environments.

Must Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field
• Minimum 10 years of experience in project/program management for K-12 or K-14 educational construction projects
• Proven success overseeing large capital improvement or bond-funded education programs
• Deep knowledge of Division of the State Architect (DSA) construction and design processes
• Strong expertise in pre-construction, design review, cost estimation, scheduling, and construction oversight
• Exceptional ability to manage scope, schedule, and budget with clear accountability
• Demonstrated success in resolving disputes and implementing risk mitigation strategies
• Proven ability to supervise, mentor and manage a team of project managers and engineers
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with project controls software
• Experience presenting in public forums, client meetings, and oversight committees

Nice to Haves

• Master's degree or advanced certification in a construction-related field
• CMAA Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Construction Manager in Training (CMIT)
• Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) or similar project delivery certification
• Professional registration as a Licensed Architect or Professional Engineer
• Experience working with California Department of Education (CDE) and OPSC compliance
• Familiarity with alternative delivery methods such as Design-Build or Lease-Leaseback
• Knowledge of project accounting systems and cost controls in public agency settings
• Experience in managing community outreach or bond oversight committee relations
• Past leadership on higher education construction projects (in addition to K-12)

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage capital improvement programs in K-14 public education environments
• Serve as the primary liaison between the owner and external design/construction teams
• Develop, implement, and maintain program quality management systems
• Oversee preparation and execution of all project contracts, documents, budgets, and schedules
• Monitor and report project progress, risks, cost tracking, and mitigation plans
• Ensure timely completion of all project deliverables and contractual milestones
• Coordinate and chair meetings with stakeholders, agencies, architects, and contractors
• Prepare and present status reports and dashboards for internal and public presentations
• Provide guidance and supervision to internal staff including Project Managers and Engineers
• Ensure contractor compliance with safety, quality, and staffing requirements
• Review and validate change orders and coordinate construction-related negotiations
• Develop master implementation schedules and execution plans aligned with client priorities
• Support the client with financial reporting and coordination with oversight committees
• Facilitate effective resolution of field issues, conflicts, and design clarifications
• Conduct regular site visits, field observations, and documentation reviews
• Uphold project goals for inclusion, sustainability, and community engagement
• Approve invoices, manage contract amendments, and track consultant/contractor performance
• Adapt program strategy as needed to maintain progress and meet district goals
• Execute duties with a focus on client satisfaction and program success