Project Manager - Underground Utilities

Job Summary: Ella SA Contracting is seeking an Underground Utilities Project Manager responsible for planning, coordinating, and overseeing all aspects of underground utility construction projects. This includes water, sewer, storm drainage, and other underground infrastructure. The Project Manager ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, managing changes, and meeting quality and safety standards.

• Develop overall project plan for utility installation (water, sewer, storm, telecom), including sequencing, phasing, and execution strategy

• Creates and manages project budget, tracks costs (labor, equipment, materials), and approves expenditures

• Develops master schedule and key milestones (excavation, pipe install, testing, sub mobilization, restoration, etc.)

• Allocates crews, subcontractors, heavy equipment, and major material orders

• Provides high-level direction to Superintendent; resolves major field conflicts (utility clashes, delays); communicates client feedback to Superintendent for their awareness

• Oversees permitting strategy and compliance with city/municipal requirements

• Ensures adherence to specifications (pipe grade, compaction, pressure testing, inspections)

• Enforces company safety policies and ensures compliance with OSHA standards

• Identifies major risks (unknown utilities, soil conditions, weather delays) and develops mitigation plans

• Manages subcontractor contracts, scope, and performance

• Reviews and approves critical documentation and reports

• Approves major material purchases and vendor agreements

• Reviews production, monitors installed quantities, and reports to stakeholders; evaluates deficiencies and strategies to overcome

• Oversees overall project administration and reporting requirements, schedules meetings/reviews as appropriate

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (preferred).
• Proven experience in underground utility construction or a similar industry.
• Strong understanding of underground utility systems, materials, and construction methods.
• Proficiency in project management software (Heavy Job, Heavy Big, Foundation).
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal construction regulations.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to job sites as needed.

• Professional Engineering (PE) license or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
• Experience working with GIS mapping tools and utility locating technology.
• Familiarity with green infrastructure or sustainable construction practices.
• Estimating Software plans (Planswift, Heavy Bid, HCSS Plans for example).