Senior Project Manager (Education)

About the role

Harris & Associates’ Education practice works with K-12 districts, community colleges, and universities to plan and deliver programs that support meaningful change. The team handles a range of initiatives, including campus modernization, facility expansion, safety and sustainability upgrades, and the creation of specialized learning spaces like laboratories, research centers, and classrooms.

In this role, the Senior Project Manager joins projects at an early stage and helps the owner shape budgets, establish overall schedules, choose the design team, and handle related project needs. As the project moves forward, the manager tracks plans and specifications, keeps budgets and timelines updated, and supports the owner through bidding and award activities when needed.

Responsibilities

• Guide a construction team in line with district rules and program procedures for college bond-funded work.
• Train the team on PMO policies and operating procedures.
• Carry out the program quality management system effectively.
• Coordinate closely with the Program Management Office on all project-related topics.
• Review, prepare, and improve contract documents.
• Plan, organize, direct, coordinate, and report on the performance of the college project management team and associated construction work.
• Spot project risks and build practical mitigation plans.
• Record and report project information accurately and on time.
• Present project and college data clearly to different stakeholder groups.
• Manage 5 to 10 projects at the same time, with each project ranging from $5M to $100M in value and complexity.
• Deliver projects on schedule and within the approved budget.
• Work with the Relocation Project Manager on budget and schedule details related to FF&E, asset disposition/surplus, and relocation.
• Review designer deliverables across design phases and, during construction, examine CCDs and provide written comments to the Design Team before submission to DSA.
• Lead project closeout activities, including DSA closeout and PMO/district closeout.
• Track project progress and prepare management reports for overall program delivery schedules.
• Monitor and report on scheduling, cost control, staffing, and other construction contract requirements.
• Inspect construction site offices to evaluate team performance and compliance with legal obligations.
• Review recommended approaches for resolving construction-related disputes.
• Support outreach efforts that share information about college projects.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Review and negotiate change order items with the contractor and DBE team.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 8 years of experience in project, construction, or program management, including 5+ years in relevant project management work.
• Hands-on experience with Division of State Architect (DSA) projects is required, and K-12 experience is strongly preferred.
• OSHA-10 certification is required within one month of joining.
• A valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.
• PMP or CCM certification/license is a strong advantage.

About Harris & Associates

Harris & Associates is a 100% employee-owned firm that focuses on planning, designing, and building public infrastructure solutions. The company supports municipal, water, transportation, and education clients in creating communities that are equitable, resilient, and sustainable. Its presence spans California, Nevada, and Washington, with more than 280 employee-owners across offices and project sites.

The company emphasizes collaboration, values diverse perspectives, and invests in employee growth through mentorship, hands-on training, Harris University, and an annual staff summit. It also promotes work-life balance and organizes social and team-building events.

Compensation and benefits

The annual pay range for this position is $150,000 to $165,000, with the final offer depending on the candidate’s background and expertise.

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off, 8 paid holidays, plus one paid “WorkAversary” day
• Health and well-being allowance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Flexible hybrid/remote work arrangements
• Paid leave programs, including maternity, parental, and family medical leave

Equal opportunity and workplace conduct

Harris & Associates is an equal opportunity employer and provides fair consideration to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

The company does not tolerate workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.