Associate Project Manager

Overview

We are seeking an Associate Project Manager to work in our San Diego office experienced in managing Physical Layer, Surveillance, and Access Control projects. This role requires the Associate Project Manager to achieve project objectives within defined timelines and budgets, while overseeing key project management functions, including setting clear and attainable objectives, establishing project requirements, and managing cost, schedule, and quality.

Additionally, the Associate Project Manager will support the Estimation and Engineering department by participating in job walks to gather data essential for accurate bidding. A critical aspect of this requirement is the ability to understand site project requirements, collect relevant data and articulate those details clearly to the Estimation and Engineering team.

Success in this role requires the Associate Project Manager to adapt to the unique procedures of contracting parties and foster strong, collaborative relationships with client representatives. This adaptability and relationship-building are essential to maintain a focus on cost, schedule, quality, and, above all, client satisfaction.

This role entails full accountability for the entire project, requiring the Associate Project Manager to serve as the primary point of contact, while also handling comprehensive responsibilities for managing the schedule, budget, scope, and quality of the project from start to finish.

What Your Typical Day Will Be

• Project Lifecycle Management: Leading projects through all phases (initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, and closing) suggests an approach rooted in PMI methodologies. Familiarity with structured project management processes (such as the PMBOK) will be essential.
• Documentation Review: Reviewing project documents like RFPs, RFIs, SOWs, and floor plans demands strong analytical skills and experience in technical document analysis. This is critical in setting the project up for success from the start.
• Stakeholder Communication: You’ll need to maintain consistent communication with both internal and external stakeholders, which requires excellent interpersonal and presentation skills. Regular updates will be essential to keep everyone informed and aligned.
• Kick-off Meetings and Expectations Management: Initiating both internal and client-facing kick-off meetings involves setting clear guidelines and expectations, establishing a strong foundation for the project's scope and schedule.
• Budget and Schedule Management: Staying within budget and timeline requires vigilance in monitoring financial and time-related aspects of the project. Familiarity with Microsoft Project and budgeting tools will be beneficial.
• Scope and Change Management: Managing and negotiating changes to the project scope ensures alignment with client needs without causing budget or timeline overruns.
• Supplier Management: This role involves coordinating and overseeing supplier deliverables and schedules, which requires robust leadership and organizational skills to handle day-to-day operations effectively.
• Job Walks and Bid Data Collection: Conducting site visits to collect data for bids is essential for providing accurate cost and project scope estimates, which ultimately affect project success.
• Other duties as assigned
  
  

What You Bring To The Table

• Associate Project Management Experience: At least three years of project management experience, preferably in areas related to physical layer infrastructure, surveillance, and access control, is needed to manage the unique demands of these systems.
• PMI Methodologies: A demonstrated understanding of PMI methods indicates structured project management, which is crucial for handling projects of various sizes. Familiarity with risk, quality, scope, and schedule management will align well with this role.
• Technical Knowledge: Understanding fiber and copper infrastructure, surveillance systems, and access control systems will help in making informed decisions and managing the project’s technical aspects effectively.
• Consultant and Client Management: Experience managing external consultants and clients suggests the need for diplomacy and conflict-resolution skills to handle client expectations and deliver project outcomes.
• Communication and Leadership Skills: Strong customer presentation skills and leadership abilities are critical for maintaining effective team and client relationships, aligning stakeholders, and facilitating project meetings.
• Travel Flexibility: The ability to travel as needed for site visits and client meetings will be a key factor in project success, as on-the-ground insights are often essential for accurate project scoping and planning.
  
  

Preferred Experience

• CAPM Certification: Although not mandatory, a CAPM certification would demonstrate familiarity with PMI principles and best practices, reinforcing the candidate’s foundational project management knowledge.
• Technical Certifications: Certifications specific to physical layer systems, surveillance, or access control would add value, showcasing specialized technical expertise beneficial for this role.
• Educational Background: A degree in any related field, or equivalent training, that reflects a strong foundation in project management principles.
  
  

Benefits

• Salary starting at $40/hr. (based on qualifications) and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
  
  

VectorUSA is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.