Project Manager (Earthwork / Caltrans)

Project Manager – Heavy Civil Construction (San Diego Region)

Location: San Diego, CA
Salary Range: $125,000 – $180,000 (DOE)
Type: Full-Time

Position Overview

We’re seeking an experienced and results-driven Project Manager to join our Southern California – San Diego team. This role oversees the full administrative, financial, and operational management of assigned heavy civil construction projects , ensuring completion on time, within budget, and to the highest safety and quality standards.

The ideal candidate has a proven track record in earthwork, underground utilities, structures, paving, and public works projects , and thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. With over a century of construction excellence behind us, our culture emphasizes communication, accountability, and long-term career growth.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Execution

• Lead and manage project teams in coordination with Division Managers, Superintendents, and Estimators.

• Establish and track project goals, budgets, and schedules.

• Ensure all projects are executed safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with contract requirements.

• Represent the company in client meetings, progress reviews, and negotiations.

• Oversee field operations to ensure productivity, quality, and safety performance.

Financial & Contract Management

• Manage project financials including forecasting, billing, cost control, and cash flow.

• Oversee change orders, subcontractor payments, and project cost reports.

• Review contracts and specifications to identify risks and protect company interests.

• Monitor earned value, productivity reports, and cost-to-complete forecasting to maintain profitability.

Coordination & Communication

• Serve as the primary point of contact for owners, subcontractors, and vendors.

• Coordinate project documentation including RFIs, submittals, meeting minutes, and progress reports.

• Communicate proactively across departments to resolve issues and maintain schedule alignment.

• Collaborate with estimating, procurement, and field operations for resource optimization.

Safety, Risk & Quality

• Champion a zero-incident safety culture on all job sites.

• Ensure compliance with OSHA regulations and company safety policies.

• Conduct risk assessments and implement proactive mitigation strategies.

• Maintain quality control through inspections, testing, and adherence to specifications.

Project Closeout

• Lead project closeout activities, ensuring accurate documentation, punch list completion, and client satisfaction.

• Oversee delivery of as-builts, warranties, and final reports.

• Conduct project reviews to identify best practices and areas for improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering , or related field (preferred).

• Proven experience managing heavy civil infrastructure projects (earthwork, underground utilities, structures, paving, public works).

• Strong understanding of public contract codes, cost control, and change management.

• Proficient in Bid2Win , Primavera P6 , MS Project , and construction management software (e.g., Procore).

• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.

• Financially astute with the ability to analyze budgets, cost forecasts, and risk exposure.

• Valid driver’s license required.

Core Competencies

• Leadership & Team Development

• Strategic Planning & Risk Mitigation

• Financial & Contract Oversight

• Communication & Negotiation

• Results-Oriented Project Delivery

• Time & Process Management

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $120,000 – $170,000 (DOE)

• Comprehensive Benefits Package , including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and 401(k) with company match

  • Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave

  • Performance-based incentives