Project Manager at Ritsema Associates – Kalamazoo, Michigan

Ritsema Associates has been a pillar of excellence in the construction industry since 1955. With a legacy built on quality, integrity, and innovation, we have consistently set the benchmark for craftsmanship in commercial interiors construction. We’re proud to be 100% employee owned as well as recognized as one of West Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For.

Ritsema Associates offers the following benefits:

• Health benefit package after 30 days
Paid holidays
Paid time off and sick time.
401(k) with company match
ESOP (100% employee-owned)
Power and specialty tools provided
Company provided uniforms
Company paid training and development
Year-round work
Employee assistance program (EAP)
Referral Bonuses

Training and Growth

At Ritsema, we invest in developing skilled professionals who take pride in their craft. Our teams receive high quality training designed to build competence, confidence, and long term career growth. Training is delivered through a mix of on the job instruction, hands on workshops, and structured learning with our industry partners. If you’re ready to grow your skills, take on new challenges, and become one of the best in the commercial interiors industry, Ritsema is the place to do it.

Compensation: $70,000 – $80,000 annual salary, based on experience

Purpose

The Project Manager is responsible for overseeing construction projects from initiation through closeout, ensuring that all work is completed safely, on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of all stakeholders. This role requires strong leadership, coordination, and communication skills to manage subcontractors, suppliers, and internal teams while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Project Planning & Coordination

• Ability to interpret required scopes of work to be completed.
Develop and maintain comprehensive project schedules.
Coordinate with suppliers, subcontractors, and internal teams to ensure timely execution.
Proactively identify and mitigate potential project risks and delays.
Draft and issue purchase orders and subcontract agreements.
Ensure high quality /Ritsema standards for project management process and installation.

Cost & Budget Management

• Assemble project schedule of values and costing budget.
Monitor and analyze actual production and material costs against estimates.
Forecast financials and costs to complete for the project.
Provide pricing for Bulletins, RFIs, ASIs, and collaborate with estimators as needed.
Review and approve subcontractor invoices.
Review and approve monthly AIA billings to client.
Prepare and submit interim and final applications for payment.
Identify financial risks, report, and create solutions to mitigate those risks.

Documentation & Communication

• Maintain organized digital project files in accordance with company standards.
Assist in compiling pre-construction documentation.
Process and track RFIs and change orders through resolution.
Ensure timely completion and approval of submittals in collaboration with the Project Coordinator.
Communicate effectively with vendors, owners, architects, and subcontractors regarding project timelines, budgets, risks, and changes.
Confidently coordinate and present team meetings to effectively communicate plans, progress, challenges, etc.

Team Leadership & Support

• Lead and motivate project team members to maintain a productive and positive work environment.
Collaborate with superintendents and foremen to resolve field issues.
Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and material quotes.
Knowledge of products, materials, means and methods for installation.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required; relevant certifications in project management or cost estimating preferred.
Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in construction management or a related field.
Experience in the construction field preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe, and database management systems.
Familiarity with estimating software is advantageous.
Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to work independently.
Professional demeanor with a commitment to integrity, dependability, and attention to detail.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and advanced problem-solving skills.

Physical Requirements
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods.
Capable of walking, bending, climbing stairs/ladders, and navigating active construction sites.
Occasionally required to lift and carry materials or equipment up to 25 pounds.
Must be able to work in varying environmental conditions (e.g., heat, cold, dust, noise) during site visits.
Visual and auditory acuity sufficient to safely navigate job sites and communicate effectively.

Travel Requirements

• Reliable transportation needed to visit job sites
Willingness to travel up to 20% of the time for job site visits.

Reports to: Executive Director of Project Management

This job description in no way implies that these are the only duties to be performed. An employee will be required to follow any other job-related duties required by the manager.
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