Senior Project Manager- K-12 Programs ( Licensed Architect)

Senior Project Manager - K-12 Programs

Office Location: Dallas, TX  

Level: 15 Years’ Experience 

Department: Design  

Reports to: Principal – Architecture  

Company Profile 

At KAI, our company mission is “Transforming Communities” through integrated design and construction excellence. We are driven by our five core values; we are Faithful Stewards, we Listen to Understand, Give Back, Love One Another, and we Hustle! Our mission and our values drive our culture and spirit.  

For more than 45 years we have provided delivery-oriented building solutions with a diverse portfolio of experience, in-house multi-discipline professionals and expertise in both design and construction. KAI has played a significant role in dozens of award-winning projects providing Architecture, Interiors, MEP/FP engineering and construction services throughout the United States. KAI projects have been instrumental in improving the quality of life and environment in communities across the country.  Our primary operations hubs are centered in Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth and St. Louis. KAI is proud to be an MBE-Certified AEC firm built upon a foundation of teamwork and collaboration.  

To learn more about KAI, visit kai-db.com. 

Position Summary 

The Senior Project Manager at KAI acts as the primary liaison between the Owner/Client and the design team, ensuring the successful execution of projects in terms of design, schedule, deliverables, and budget. This role involves facilitating collaboration within a multi-discipline environment, optimizing resource use, and enhancing design and build processes to increase project profitability and value. The Senior Project Manager develops project objectives, exercises independent judgment, and manages team members to meet client needs, ensuring projects are completed within budget, scope, and schedule. 

Essential Functions

• Serve as the main point of contact for clients, ensuring clear and effective communication.
• Maintain client satisfaction by addressing needs and resolving issues promptly.
• Promote continuing relationships with clients through excellent service and project outcomes.
• Plan, direct, and coordinate design and engineering projects to meet established goals within the prescribed time frame and budget.
• Oversee technical, contractual, budgetary, and schedule activities on medium to large projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives.
• Manage all phases of project lifecycle including scope, schedule, costs, quality, communications, risks, procurement, and stakeholder engagement.
• Lead and motivate project teams, providing guidance and support to ensure successful project delivery.
• Coordinate internal resources and third-party vendors for the flawless execution of projects.
• Correct project and team issues constructively and proactively, fostering a positive work environment.
• Ensure technical and design excellence, maintaining overall quality including QA/QC and constructability.
• Adhere to company processes and procedures, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices.
• Review project deliverables to ensure accuracy, completeness, and alignment with client expectations and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor and control project budgets, ensuring profitability and cost efficiency.
• Analyze project profitability, revenue, margin, and utilization; prepare reports for project reviews.
• Ensure timely and accurate invoicing and manage accounts receivable to ensure prompt payment.
• Lead proposal efforts for design, engineering, or design-build projects, including scoping and pricing.
• Manage contract performance across all disciplines, ensuring adherence to contractual obligations and timelines.
• Negotiate contract terms and conditions to achieve favorable outcomes for the company and clients.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and make constructive suggestions for change.
• Stay updated with industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes to enhance project delivery.
• Implement innovative solutions to improve design, build collaboration, and increase project value.
• Conduct field construction observations as part of the quality assurance process.
• Ensure alignment with project specifications, codes, and standards.
• Participate in major technical, cost, scheduling, and performance decisions to guide project success.

Qualifications

Required Experience 

• Bachelor’s and advanced degree from an accredited college or university in Architecture or a related field.
• Minimum of 20 years of experience in project management within the architecture, engineering, and construction (A/E/C) industry.
• Proven experience in managing mid-sized to large-sized projects and leading project teams.
• Professional registration (Architect or equivalent) is required and the ability to sign/seal project documents.
• Formal project management certification from PMI, DBIA, PSMJ, or similar is preferred.
• Strong technical knowledge in A/E/C disciplines with a focus on project coordination and client management. 

Required Skills

• Proficiency in project management software and tools such as Bluebeam, Microsoft Office Suite, and A/E/C project and financial management software.
• Working knowledge of Revit and other design software is a plus.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, budgeting, scheduling, and risk management.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Excellent written, graphic, and verbal communication skills for effective client interaction and team coordination.
• Ability to present information clearly and effectively to various stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to build rapport and lead project teams and clients.
• Ability to create a positive team atmosphere, engage and motivate team members, and acknowledge their contributions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for addressing project challenges and identifying innovative solutions.
• Ability to analyze project financials, including profitability, revenue, and margins.
• Strong client management skills with a commitment to exceeding client expectations.
• Ability to travel as necessary for marketing and project work to maintain and build client relationships.
• High accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of project management, ensuring project success and client satisfaction.
• Ability to monitor processes carefully and maintain detailed records for project documentation. 

This summary reflects the core responsibilities of the Senior Project Manager and may evolve based on the candidate’s skillset and interests. 

KAI provides equal employment opportunities to qualified persons without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin, disability, genetics, age, marital status, gender identity or expression, veteran’s status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws