Senior Project Manager - Commercial Underground Wet Utilities
Job Description
Midwest Contracting Inc | Chandler, AZ | Full-Time | $120,000 – $150,000 per year
About Us
Midwest Contracting Inc is a growing commercial underground utility contractor serving the greater Phoenix metro area. We specialize in wet utility construction — water, sewer, storm drain, and fire line systems — for commercial, industrial, and municipal projects. We take pride in delivering safe, on-time, on-budget work, and we're looking for a proven leader to help us keep that reputation as we grow.
The Role
We're seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to take full ownership of commercial underground wet utility projects from award through closeout. Reporting to the Operations Manager, you'll manage your own portfolio of projects while leading and mentoring a team of two Project Managers. You'll also serve as the final set of eyes on bids before they go out the door. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who knows the dirt side of the business, can run projects profitably, and is ready to develop the next generation of project leaders.
What You'll Do
- Lead, mentor, and oversee a team of two Project Managers — reviewing their project performance, budgets, and schedules, and supporting their professional development
- Manage your own portfolio of commercial wet utility projects (water, sewer, storm drain, fire lines) from preconstruction through final acceptance
- Own project budgets, forecasts, cost tracking, and monthly billings; drive profitability on every job
- Develop and maintain project schedules; coordinate crews, equipment, subcontractors, and material deliveries to keep work on track
- Review plans, specs, and geotechnical reports; identify conflicts, constructability issues, and change order opportunities
- Prepare, negotiate, and manage change orders, RFIs, and submittals
- Build strong working relationships with general contractors, owners, engineers, inspectors, and city/municipal agencies
- Coordinate utility locates, permits, traffic control plans, SWPPP compliance, and dust control requirements
- Partner with superintendents and foremen on production planning, manpower, and equipment needs
- Enforce company safety standards and ensure OSHA and trench safety compliance on every site
- Report to the Operations Manager on project performance, forecasts, and team status
- Provide final review and sign-off on bids before submission — vetting scope, pricing, and risk with the estimating team
What We're Looking For
- 8+ years of project management experience in underground wet utilities, heavy civil, or sitework construction (commercial projects strongly preferred)
- Deep knowledge of wet utility systems: water lines, sanitary sewer, storm drain, fire lines, and related structures
- Prior experience leading or mentoring other project managers or project engineers
- Proven track record managing project budgets of $1M+ and delivering profitable results
- Estimating or bid review experience — able to spot scope gaps, pricing risks, and constructability issues before a bid goes out
- Strong command of scheduling, cost control, change order management, and contract administration
- Working knowledge of MAG specifications and Arizona municipal permitting processes a plus
- Experience with trench safety, shoring, dewatering, and OSHA excavation standards
- Proficiency with project management and scheduling software (e.g., Procore, HCSS, MS Project, Bluebeam)
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills; able to represent the company professionally with GCs, owners, and agencies
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred — equivalent field experience welcomed
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record
- OSHA 30 certification a plus
What We Offer
- Competitive salary: $120,000 – $150,000 per year, based on experience
- Performance-based bonus opportunities
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Company truck and fuel allowance
- Stable, growing company with a strong project backlog and room for advancement
Midwest Contracting Inc is a mid sized underground wet utility and civil commercial contractor delivering high-quality infrastructure projects across the Midwest. We take pride in building the systems that communities depend on — from water and sewer to storm drainage and site utilities. Our team is hands-on, tight-knit, and committed to getting the work done right.
