Project Manager – Heavy Civil Construction (San Diego Region)
Position Overview
We’re seeking an experienced and results-driven
The ideal candidate has a proven track record in
Key ResponsibilitiesProject Leadership & ExecutionFinancial & Contract ManagementCoordination & CommunicationSafety, Risk & QualityProject Closeout
Qualifications
Core Competencies
Compensation & Benefits
Project Manager – Heavy Civil Construction (San Diego Region)
Location:San Diego, CASalary Range:$120,000 – $170,000 (DOE)Type:Full-Time
Position Overview
We’re seeking an experienced and results-drivenProject Managerto join ourSouthern California – San Diegoteam. This role oversees the full administrative, financial, and operational management of assignedheavy 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 inearthwork, 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
Freqently Asked Questions
San Diego's construction sector is rapidly expanding, intensifying demand for project managers skilled in heavy civil projects. Candidates with expertise in earthwork and underground utilities face strong competition, but those demonstrating leadership and contract management capabilities stand out in this busy market.
Locally, certifications like OSHA safety training and PMP are highly regarded for construction project managers. Familiarity with regional public contract codes and proficiency in tools such as Primavera P6 can give candidates an edge when managing heavy civil infrastructure projects.
Success in this field hinges on strategic planning, risk mitigation, financial oversight, and effective communication. Exceptional leadership combined with a results-driven approach ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet stringent safety and quality standards.
Experienced project managers can advance toward director-level positions or specialize in niche areas like public works or infrastructure development. Continuous skill enhancement in contract negotiation and software mastery often leads to increased responsibility and higher compensation.
Interstate Recruiters Corp emphasizes a century-long culture of accountability and communication, fostering long-term career growth. Their project managers handle comprehensive financial, operational, and safety aspects, setting them apart through robust support and cutting-edge management tools.
Beyond competitive salaries, Interstate offers an extensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, ESOP, and 401(k) with company match. They also prioritize employee growth with performance incentives and a collaborative environment tailored for heavy civil construction leaders.
Project managers in San Diego's heavy civil construction typically earn between $120,000 and $170,000 annually, depending on experience. This range reflects the region’s cost of living and the specialized skills required to oversee complex infrastructure projects.
Managing shifting schedules, coordinating diverse teams, and ensuring strict compliance with safety standards are everyday hurdles. Effective risk assessment and proactive communication are essential to navigate financial constraints and maintain high-quality project delivery.
Expertise in earthwork, underground utilities, and public works projects is crucial. Familiarity with construction-specific software like Procore and Primavera P6, combined with strong financial acumen and contract management, differentiates these professionals from general project managers.
San Diego's traffic patterns and dispersed job sites require project managers to be adept at logistical planning. The local culture values safety and teamwork, so fostering strong on-site relationships and maintaining flexible schedules often contribute to smoother project execution.
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