THE ROLEThe
Construction Project Manager oversees capital and construction projects from initiation to completion, ensuring work is delivered on time, within budget, and to the quality and safety standards of the DRCFA and Legends Global. The role requires technical project expertise, strong communication, and a proactive approach to building within an active convention center environment.
You'll coordinate architects, engineers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders to guarantee alignment between project phases and facility operations - protecting the guest experience while maximizing capital investment.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES- Project Planning: Develop full project plans including scope definition, schedules, budgets, and resource allocation.
- Budget Management: Track expenses, validate invoices, manage cost forecasting, and ensure adherence to approved budgets.
- Team Coordination: Lead collaboration between contractors, architects, engineers, inspectors, and the facility's Operations Team.
- Scheduling: Align project schedules with the Huntington Place event calendar and major Detroit events to minimize disruption.
- Quality & Safety: Conduct routine site visits to monitor progress and enforce DRCFA/Legends specifications, quality standards, and OSHA practices.
- Risk Management: Identify risks early and implement mitigation strategies to protect budget and timelines.
- Communication: Serve as primary project contact for internal and external stakeholders, providing clear status updates throughout the lifecycle.
- Documentation: Maintain accurate records including contracts, change orders, task orders, reports, drawings, and progress documentation.
- Permitting & Inspections: Secure AHJ permits and coordinate inspections; ensure complete documentation prior, during, and post-inspection.
- Contract Management: Interpret contractual language and hold partners accountable to defined roles, responsibilities, and deliverables.
- Purchasing & Competitive Bidding: Develop scopes of work and material specifications under the DRCFA Purchasing Policy for competitive bidding in partnership with the Purchasing Director.
- Other duties as assigned.
KEY DELIVERABLES- Projects delivered within approved scope, schedule, and budget.
- Complete and accurate documentation across permitting and financial reporting.
- Safety, quality, and code compliance at all phases.
- Minimal disruption to events and guest experiences during construction activities.
- Effective communication and collaboration across all project stakeholders.
QUALIFICATIONS- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or 15+ years of field experience managing commercial construction project schedules and budgets.
- Several years of experience in construction management or a related discipline with a focus on project execution.
- Proficiency with project management software and tools; strong understanding of construction methods, safety, and regulatory requirements.
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams and coordinate diverse stakeholders in fast-moving environments.
- Critical thinking and proven problem-solving abilities, including the ability to execute projects even when design documentation is evolving.
- Ability to make decisions under pressure and deliver results in high-stakes, timeline-sensitive conditions.
- Excellent written and verbal communication with strong organizational skills.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITSCompetitive salary commensurate with experience, plus:
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits starting day one
- Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
- 401(k) with company match
WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDSThis position operates onsite in a live-event environment that requires flexibility, professionalism, and adherence to safety practices. Work occurs both in an office setting and throughout the facility - including active construction zones, back-of-house areas, rooftops, loading docks, and outdoor spaces.
The role requires walking, standing, climbing ladders, wearing PPE, and occasional lifting up to 40 lbs. Early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required based on project milestones and event schedules.
