Construction Project Manager – San Diego, CA
Project Manager – Owner’s Representative
Position Overview
We are seeking a Project Manager to support our Owner’s Representative team on commercial construction projects with emphasis on life sciences and technology tenant improvements. This role is ideal for a construction professional ready to advance their career by working alongside senior project managers on complex projects while independently managing smaller assignments. You will gain valuable experience representing client interests across all phases of construction delivery.
Key Responsibilities
Project Support & Coordination
Assist Senior Project Managers in overseeing construction projects from design, preconstruction and construction through closeout. Coordinate day-to-day project activities including contractor communications, submittal reviews, RFI responses, and meeting coordination. Maintain project documentation, schedules, and budget tracking systems to ensure accurate, up-to-date project information.
Independent Project Management
Lead smaller tenant improvement projects independently, managing all aspects from kickoff through occupancy. Serve as the primary owner’s representative on projects ranging from office buildouts to laboratory renovations, demonstrating your ability to handle increasing responsibility and complexity.
Site Presence & Quality Control
Conduct regular site walks to monitor construction progress, verify work quality, and ensure compliance with plans and specifications. Document site conditions through photographs and field reports. Identify potential issues early and escalate to senior team members when necessary. Track punch list items and coordinate final inspections.
Budget & Schedule Tracking
Monitor project expenditures against approved budgets, tracking costs and flagging potential overruns. Assist with change order processing, ensuring proper documentation and client approval. Update and maintain project schedules, identifying delays and working with contractors to develop recovery plans.
Technical Review & Coordination
Review contractor submittals, shop drawings, and product data for conformance with specifications. Process RFIs efficiently, coordinating responses with design teams. Assist with coordination of MEP systems, particularly specialized requirements common in life sciences and technology environments such as laboratory HVAC, cleanrooms, and data infrastructure.
Meeting Facilitation & Communication
Lead or co-facilitate weekly project meetings with contractors, designers, and subcontractors. Prepare meeting agendas, document minutes, and track action items to completion. Communicate project status updates to clients and internal stakeholders. Develop reports summarizing project progress, issues, and upcoming milestones.
Contract & Compliance Administration
Assist with contract administration including reviewing contractor payment applications, verifying lien releases, and maintaining compliance documentation. Ensure projects meet building code requirements and obtain necessary permits and approvals. Support closeout activities including warranty documentation and as-built drawing compilation.
Required Qualifications
Experience
- 5-10 years of construction project management or coordination experience
- Background in commercial construction, preferably including exposure to life sciences, laboratory, or technology projects
- Experience working with general contractors, subcontractors, architects, and engineers
- Familiarity with tenant improvement projects and occupied building renovations
Technical Knowledge
- Solid understanding of construction methods, sequencing, and building systems
- Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, and MEP drawings
- Basic knowledge of building codes and construction standards
- Familiarity with specialized systems (laboratory utilities, cleanrooms, raised access floors, etc.) preferred
- Proficiency with project management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and scheduling tools
Skills & Competencies
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
- Effective written and verbal communication abilities
- Proactive problem-solving approach
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively
- Collaborative team player comfortable taking direction from senior staff
- Self-motivated with eagerness to learn and grow professionally
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction certification preferred
- Working toward PMP, CCM, or LEED AP certification a plus
What We Offer
This position offers exceptional growth opportunities within our Owner’s Representative practice. You will work on innovative life sciences and technology projects while developing your skills under the mentorship of experienced senior project managers. As you demonstrate capability, you will assume increasing responsibility and project complexity, positioning yourself for advancement to senior project management roles.
At blueStone Solutions Group, we don’t just place professionals — we connect ambitious talent with some of the most sought-after companies through contract, contract-to-hire, and direct hire opportunities. We take pride in uncovering career paths that aren’t always visible on the open market, giving our candidates access to roles that truly move the needle.
When you work with blueStone, you’ll discover opportunities you might not find anywhere else. We connect you with rewarding roles at leading companies, offering competitive pay and comprehensive benefits that support both your career and your future. Our goal is to open doors, guide your journey, and help you take the next step toward achieving your professional goals.