What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Construction Project Manager position at Amicus Talent Group?
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Project Manager to lead large-scale, ground-up data center construction projects in the South Chicago region. This role requires deep expertise in site development, structural construction, and mission-critical MEP systems, along with strong leadership in managing General Contractors (GCs) on complex, high-value builds.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in North America; visa sponsorship is not available.
Key ResponsibilitiesGround-Up Construction Leadership- Oversee all phases of ground-up data center development, including site acquisition readiness, earthwork, utilities installation, foundations, steel erection, exterior envelope, and full build-out.
- Ensure seamless coordination from site preparation and civil work through structural completion and MEP integration.
- Drive fast-track schedules and maintain rigorous quality control across all construction phases.
- Supervise installation of all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, ensuring mission-critical reliability, performance, and redundancy.
- Manage high-voltage systems, switchgear, UPS, generators, CRAC/CRAH units, cooling towers, and chilled water systems.
- Validate full MEP coordination with structural and architectural elements, ensuring clear pathways, conflict-free routing, and system commissioning readiness.
- Oversee integrated testing, startup, and turnover of all mission-critical systems.
- Lead daily coordination with General Contractors, trades, and specialty subcontractors to ensure alignment with scope, drawings, and specifications.
- Conduct regular site walks to verify progress, MEP quality, safety compliance, and installation accuracy.
- Hold GCs accountable for manpower planning, sequencing, logistics, and adherence to project milestones.
- Manage and monitor budgets, schedules, procurement timelines, and change orders.
- Identify risks early, implement mitigation plans, and ensure minimal impact on cost or schedule.
- Maintain strict compliance with safety procedures, building codes, and quality standards throughout the build.
- Serve as the main point of contact for client updates, design coordination, and milestone reporting.
- Provide clear, consistent communication, both on-site and through structured project reporting.
- 7–10 years of experience managing ground-up data center construction projects (required).
- Proven experience delivering large mission-critical facilities with heavy MEP scope and complex electrical/mechanical systems.
- Strong background directing General Contractors on high-value commercial or mission-critical builds.
- Ability to manage full project lifecycle: sitework, civil, structural, architectural, and full MEP integration.
- Deep knowledge of data center systems, including electrical distribution, HVAC/cooling, redundancy configurations, and commissioning processes.
- Strong leadership, communication, and client-facing skills with a hands-on, on-site management approach.
- Experience with multi-phase or hyperscale data center programs.
- Proficiency in construction management platforms (Procore, MS Project, Bluebeam, etc.).
- Background in both owner’s representative and GC environments.