HVAC Senior Project Manager

A long‑established Chicago-based commercial and industrial mechanical contractor is seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager to join their team. This company has operated for more than seven decades and is recognized for high‑quality workmanship, strong client relationships, and delivering complex HVAC solutions across commercial, institutional, and industrial environments.

They follow a structured operating system and uphold a strong set of core values, emphasizing diligence, safety, ownership, innovation, humility, and consistently exceeding expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive project budgets based on takeoff estimates.
• Lead all phases of mechanical construction projects from start to finish, including proposal development, budgeting, scheduling, change orders, procurement, billing, and closeout.
• Ensure full compliance with project contracts-notifications, scope interpretation, change procedures, scheduling, billing requirements, and claims processes.
• Monitor labor performance and manage project costs to maintain profitability.
• Collaborate closely with field leadership and internal teams to track progress and maintain accurate reporting.
• Oversee all project documentation, communication, and coordination with general contractors, owners, subcontractors, vendors, and design teams.
• Manage procurement of major equipment and materials.
• Ensure all installations meet quality standards and mitigate any potential risks or liabilities.
• Participate in and support company-wide safety initiatives.
• Perform takeoffs and pricing for change orders, updating internal budgets as required.
• Proactively manage financial performance to ensure projects achieve targeted gross profit.
• Assist the estimating department when needed.

Qualifications & Competencies

• Strong command of professional written and verbal communication.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills.
• Self‑driven with the ability to work independently.
• High attention to detail and strong analytical problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Comfortable interfacing with stakeholders at all levels, including executives.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• 7+ years of Project Management experience in HVAC or related mechanical construction.
• Extensive knowledge of HVAC systems, ductwork, and piping.
• Bachelor's degree in project management, engineering, business, or a related field preferred (associate degree accepted).

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based with periodic travel to job sites or partner locations.
• Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods and perform standard office tasks.
• Ability to lift and move light to moderate materials as needed.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $120,000 - $180,000
• Bonus & Profit Sharing: Up to 30% of base salary
• 401(k) with Safe Harbor Match (4%) - all plan fees covered
• Health Insurance (PPO & HMO options) - 75% employer-paid
• Dental & Vision - 75% employer-paid
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Generous PTO and Paid Holidays
• Company-paid Short & Long-Term Disability
• Company-paid Life Insurance ($20,000)
• FSA & Dependent Care options
• Employee Assistance Program
• Transit & Parking Reimbursement
• Employee events and team-building activities