Job Details

Overview

Title: Senior Project Manager I

Employee Classification: Senior Project Manager I

Campus: University of North Texas - System Administration

Division: SYS-Sys Facilities Plan & Constr

SubDivision-Department: SYS-Sys Fac Construction-Gen

Department: SYS-SIPC Staff Capital Project-951000

Job Location: Denton

Salary: Commensurate with experience

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility: TRS Eligible

About UNT System

Welcome to the University of North Texas System. The UNT System includes the University of North Texas in Denton and Frisco, the University of North Texas at Dallas and UNT Dallas College of Law, and the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. We are the only university system based exclusively in the Dallas–Fort Worth region. We are growing with the North Texas region, employing more than 14,000 employees, educating a record 49,000+ students across our system, and awarding nearly 12,000 degrees each year.

We are one team comprised of individuals who are committed to excellence, curiosity and innovation. We are transforming lives and creating economic opportunity through education. We champion a people-first values-based culture where We Care about each other and those we serve. We believe that we are Better Together because we foster an environment of respect, belonging, and access for all. We demonstrate Courageous Integrity through setting exceptional standards and acting in the best interest of our communities. We are encouraged to Be Curious about opportunities for learning, creating, discovering, and innovating, and are encouraged to learn from failure. Show Your Fire by joining our team and exhibiting your passion and pride in your work as part of our UNT System team.

Learn more about the UNT System and how we live our values at www.UNTSystem.edu.

Department Summary

The Office of Strategic Infrastructure, Planning, and Construction (SIPC) at the University of North Texas System (UNTS) seeks a Project Manager (PM) to manage and execute capital improvement projects across the UNT System and the three independent university institutions.

Position Overview

The Office of Strategic Infrastructure, Planning, and Construction (SIPC) seeks a Senior Project Manager I (SPM-1) to manage and execute capital improvement projects across the UNT System and the three independent university institutions. Reporting to the Director of Project Management, the SPM-1 is responsible for managing capital improvement projects of moderate complexity involving multidisciplinary teams across the UNTS Enterprise. The SPM-1 provides oversight of project scope, schedule, and budget while ensuring compliance with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and best practices in construction and project management. The SPM-1 serves as a key liaison among campus stakeholders, design teams, and contractors, facilitating collaboration throughout the project lifecycle. With a focus on operational excellence, the SPM-1 ensures that projects are delivered efficiently, meet institutional objectives, and support the academic, research, and service missions of UNTS.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, construction management, or a related field, and three (3) years in a leadership capacity overseeing capital improvement initiatives; experience in project management, facilities planning, design, and construction; or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training. Employees in this job may be responsible for conducting research on, working on, or having the ability to access critical organizational infrastructure and they must be able to maintain the security and integrity of the infrastructure related to this role.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

The SPM-1 must have a strong understanding of building systems, materials, and construction technologies, with the ability to apply innovative solutions that enhance project outcomes. Knowledge of regulatory frameworks, including local building codes, environmental standards, and THECB requirements, is required to ensure compliance throughout project execution. Proficiency in project lifecycle management, including planning, design, procurement, construction, and closeout, is essential. The SPM-1 should be familiar with contract administration, procurement processes, and risk management principles to support successful delivery of capital projects. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills are necessary to identify project risks, assess challenges, and develop effective solutions. The SPM-1 must demonstrate effective leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage multidisciplinary teams, coordinate with diverse stakeholders, and foster a collaborative work environment. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for conveying complex project details to university leadership, design professionals, contractors, and regulatory agencies. Proficiency in project management software, such as PMWeb, and scheduling tools, such as Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project, is required. The SPM-1 must also be competent in Microsoft Office applications, with familiarity in Building Information Modeling (BIM) and sustainability-focused technologies considered beneficial. A commitment to professional development and mentorship is expected, with the ability to support junior staff and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement. The SPM-1 must also demonstrate a customer-focused approach, ensuring that projects align with institutional priorities and stakeholder expectations.

Preferred Qualifications

The ideal candidate will hold an advanced academic qualification, such as a master's degree in architecture, engineering, architectural engineering, construction management, or a closely related field, or business administration. Experience within higher education, institutional, or public-sector environments is highly valued, as is familiarity with THECB requirements and state procurement regulations. The SPM-1 should demonstrate proficiency in project management principles and practices, particularly in managing capital improvement projects from inception to completion. Proficiency in project lifecycle management—including planning, programming, budgeting, design, procurement, construction, and closeout—is desirable. Familiarity with various construction delivery methods, risk management strategies, and contract administration is beneficial. Candidates should have experience managing projects with budgets exceeding $5 million, showcasing the ability to navigate complex project requirements while delivering quality outcomes. Practical experience with sustainability practices, such as LEED certification processes and other green building standards, is preferred. Certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) are desirable. Active membership in professional organizations, such as PMI, CMAA, DBIA, or similar, is a plus. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership and mentoring abilities, with a proven ability to guide junior staff and collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. A focus on innovation, strategic thinking, and customer service excellence is critical, along with the ability to adapt to the dynamic needs of the UNT System. Additional safety credentials, such as First Aid and CPR, OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Training, are advantageous for on-site safety. Candidates are also expected to have completed or demonstrate the ability to complete construction safety certifications, such as OSHA 30-Hour.

Required License/Registration/Certifications

Candidates must possess a valid driver's license to support travel across UNTS campuses and project sites.

Job Duties

• Manage the execution of capital improvement projects from feasibility through closeout, ensuring alignment with institutional goals, budgets, and schedules. Develop project scopes, monitor progress, and implement strategies to mitigate risks and ensure timely delivery. (Essential)
• Assist the Director of Project Management in implementing best practices for project delivery, ensuring consistency across multiple projects. Manage day-to-day project activities, including scope definition, schedule tracking, budget monitoring, and risk assessment. (Essential)
• Assist with contract administration by overseeing design and construction agreements, ensuring compliance with UNTS policies, regulatory standards, and state procurement laws. Provide technical oversight and approve project documentation, design documents, specifications, submittals, change orders, and financial reports. (Essential)
• Act as the primary liaison between project stakeholders, including campus leadership, end-users, design teams, and contractors, ensuring clear and transparent communication throughout the project lifecycle. (Essential)
• Collaborate with the Director of Project Management to prepare presentations and reports for UNT System leadership, providing updates on project status, challenges, and milestones. (Essential)
• Represent projects in institutional and external regulatory reviews, supporting permitting, inspections, and compliance efforts. (Essential)
• Mentor and support junior project managers and coordinators, fostering a culture of professional development. (Essential)
• Assist in training team members on project management methodologies, tools, and processes. Provide guidance and technical oversight to build the capacity of the team. (Essential)
• Lead project coordination meetings and help resolve conflicts among multidisciplinary teams, ensuring alignment with project goals. (Essential)
• Develop and monitor project budgets, tracking expenditures and ensuring fiscal accountability. (Essential)
• Implement cost control measures and value engineering strategies to maximize project efficiency and minimize financial risk. (Essential)
• Identify and mitigate project risks, escalating critical issues to the Director of Project Management when necessary. (Essential)
• Support process improvement initiatives to enhance project delivery methodologies. (Essential)
• Champion sustainable building practices, ensuring compliance with environmental policies and energy-efficiency standards. (Essential)
• Assist in incorporating lessons learned from past projects into future project planning and execution. (Essential)
• Oversee completion of project closeout activities, including final inspections, punch lists, and as-built documentation. (Essential)
• Coordinate with operations and maintenance teams to facilitate a smooth transition of new facilities into active use. (Essential)
• Participate in post-project evaluations, assessing outcomes and identifying areas for future improvements. (Essential)

Physical Requirements

• Communicating with others to exchange information.
• Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
• Sedentary work that primarily involves sitting/standing.
• Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, and similar structures.
• Moving about to accomplish tasks or to move between sites.

Environmental Hazards

• Low temperatures, outdoor elements, wind.
• Elevated temperatures.
• Noisy environments.

Work Schedule

Generally, M-F, 8am - 5pm

Driving University Vehicle

No

Security Sensitive

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. Additional references can be added after submission if needed.

Benefits

For information regarding Benefits, see the information at the UNT System website.

EEO Statement

The University of North Texas System is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information. Retaliation against individuals who oppose discrimination is prohibited. The System investigates complaints and takes remedial action when appropriate.