Construction Manager - Pipeline

Kennedy Jenks is seeking a Construction Manager in California to lead major water, wastewater, and conveyance pipeline construction projects that support communities and strengthen our growing market presence.

With a strong pipeline of complex, long-term conveyance, pump station, and utility infrastructure projects, this role offers the opportunity to step directly into meaningful work, provide day-to-day leadership in the field, and guide construction delivery from planning through closeout.

You'll help lead active projects with construction schedules that may span several years, coordinate closely with clients, contractors, designers, and field teams, and contribute to continued growth with the backing of a national, employee-owned firm.

What You'll Do

As a Construction Manager, you'll lead construction execution, coordinate project stakeholders, mentor field teams, and support successful delivery of complex pipeline and utility infrastructure projects.

• Lead construction execution: Review RFIs and submittals for compliance with specifications. Review technical plans and specifications for pipeline, pump station, and conveyance infrastructure projects. Review as-built contractor drawings monthly. Prepare daily reports, track schedule compliance, manage material testing and special inspection activities, and oversee startup and commissioning activities. Support the Project Manager with technical reviews and project delivery activities.
• Drive schedule, budget & contract performance: Review and manage contractor schedules, providing recommendations to the owner. Review and recommend approval of monthly pay applications. Manage construction management and project budgets. Review and recommend approval of contract change orders. Review and approve daily extra work tags and assess budget impacts. Apply knowledge of construction contracts and Public Contract Code requirements.
• Monitor regulatory compliance & stakeholder alignment: Coordinate with utility owners, regulatory agencies, permitting authorities, and the public. Maintain compliance with project permits, SWPPP requirements, and documentation standards. Identify and manage construction risks associated with pipeline installation, utility conflicts, traffic control, trenching, and public impacts.
• Lead and mentor project teams: Lead the project construction team to successful project completion. Supervise Resident Engineers and Inspectors. Train and mentor Junior Inspectors and team members. Conduct performance reviews and provide developmental feedback. Model best practices in construction management and professional conduct.
• Grow the business and build talent: Support business development efforts, including proposals and interviews. Lead interview teams as needed. Develop relationships with clients, contractors, and industry partners while helping grow KJ's construction management practice.

What Makes This Role Different

• Step into active pipeline, pump station, and utility infrastructure projects already underway.
• Lead critical construction work while helping shape how KJ grows locally.
• Join a respected, employee-owned firm with a strong national presence and a growing portfolio of water, wastewater, and conveyance infrastructure projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in construction management or engineering.
• Experience delivering water, wastewater, conveyance pipeline, pump station, or utility infrastructure projects.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license in California or Certified Construction Manager (CCM) required.

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