Job Description
The Project Director provides strategic leadership across project management and operations, guiding one or more project teams. This role is responsible for client engagement, business development, internal operations, financial oversight, and team development. As a senior leader, the Project Director plays a key role in identifying and securing new business opportunities and may serve as a proposal champion or capture manager.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
This position may oversee Project Managers, Construction Managers, and other staff, acting as the senior field representative with accountability for scope, schedule, budget, and client satisfaction.
Business Development & Client Relations
- Serve as both Business Developer and Project Director, identifying opportunities and cultivating relationships with current and prospective clients.
- Lead proposal development, including writing, staffing, teaming strategies, and interview preparation.
- Represent the company and clients in public meetings, presentations, and forums.
- Act as the primary contact for contracts, staffing, and issue resolution.
- Maintain strong, proactive client relationships and ensure satisfaction.
- Keep Area Manager and SoCal leadership informed of client needs and relationship status.
Project Leadership & Delivery
Oversee multiple projects across various sectors (Healthcare, Education, Justice).Prepare staffing plans, fee proposals, and negotiate contract terms.Monitor budgets and ensure alignment with client expectations and financial goals.Deliver high-quality services that meet or exceed performance and profitability targets.Lead construction efforts in accordance with client policies and procedures.Ensure timely completion of deliverables and accurate documentation.Provide financial reporting to clients and oversight committees.Collaborate with client senior management on all project matters.Program & Construction Management
Manage program controls including cost, schedule, performance, and risk.Generate and present reports to internal and external stakeholders.Resolve design and construction disputes and recommend corrective actions.Oversee logistics, safety, and manpower utilization.Ensure compliance with contractual obligations by contractors, architects, and engineers.Team Leadership & Development
Provide senior-level technical expertise and internal consulting.Support training and professional development initiatives.Supervise, mentor, and coach assigned staff; conduct evaluations and manage staffing transitions.Interview and onboard new project team members.Construction Oversight
Manage construction from pre-design through occupancy, including :Delivery methods and procurement strategyContract administration and change managementScope development, budgeting, estimating, and cost control
CPM scheduling and schedule management
Safety compliance, reporting, and field operations
Minimum Qualifications
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or Architecture.Experience10+ years in senior project / program management for public sector / agency projects.3+ years in a seller-doer role contributing to business development.2+ years as a Project Director leading capital improvement projects for public sector clients.Proven success managing full construction lifecycle, including pre-construction, design reviews, construction, and close-out.Technical Skills
Expertise in estimating, cost control, scheduling, and documentation.Strong knowledge of engineering and construction principles and practices.Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.Experience with scheduling tools such as MS Project or Primavera.Preferred Qualification
Experience with Design-Build and Progressive Design-Build delivery methods.Familiarity with BIM and LEED standards.Professional registration as a licensed Architect or Professional Engineer.CCM, DBIA, LEED CertificationsOffered rate of compensation will be based on a variety of non-discriminatory factors, including education, qualifications, experience, and geographic location. The Salary range for this position is $165,000 - $200,000.
Benefits
Vanir offers a comprehensive, competitive benefits package that includes 401(k) Savings with employer matching contributions, medical, dental, vision, health savings account (HSA) with employer contributions, life, AD&D and disability benefits, flexible spending account (FSA), voluntary benefits, Teladoc, pet insurance, paid time off, national employee assistance program (EAP) and employee referral program.