Projects Manager at Cushing Academy – Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Under the supervision of the Facilities Director, the Projects Manager maintains and updates the 10-year capital projects plan for systems and equipment replacements, program enhancements, and modernizations. Estimates the contract costs and logistical needs for carrying out the work. Works with architects and design engineers as needed to properly describe each project’s full scope so contractors can successfully bid on and complete the projects with minimal disruption to the school. Must be able to maintain project schedules, budgets, and final completion criteria. Follows existing campus standards and contributes to their periodic updating.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Manages small renovations and improvement projects.
• Maintains a good working knowledge of all aspects of cleaning, landscaping, carpentry, painting, roofing, flooring, door hardware, equipment repair, electrical, lighting, fire alarm and sprinkler, irrigation, plumbing, HVAC, and building automation systems.
• Incorporates cost-saving initiatives to minimize waste and optimize project value.
• Responsible for following the Academy’s purchasing and contracting guidelines.
• Responsible for minimizing construction disruption and ensuring safe continuity of campus operations.
• Works with the Operations manager to schedule projects using in-house labor.
• Works with the Director to establish capital project budgets and propose annual timelines, and to develop the long-range projects plan.
• Conducts project management and coordination for all projects with an understanding of all potential system impacts, code requirements, and campus standards. Able to utilize project management scheduling tools.
• Ensures all projects utilize a construction supervisor’s license and licensed trades when required.
• Obtains permits for in-house projects and ensures contractors secure permitting and inspections for projects as required.
• Will fill in as needed in the absence of the Director or the Operations Manager.
• Assists with large events, snow removal, and other significant efforts. Coordinates project schedules with summer session needs.
• Strong leadership, troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong commitment to student and staff safety and comfort.
• Will be expected to share the on-call duties and work off-hours as needed.
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Facilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High School or Trade School
• Five years of experience in new construction, renovation work, or project management, preferably in a school or institutional setting.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical documents.
• Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Will adhere to Academy policies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a K-12 or higher education environment.
• Familiarity with school facilities management systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in Facilities-related field, Project/Construction Management, or facilities management certificates from AFE, IFMA, AEE, or other related trade group, and 10 years of related experience.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to bend, squat, kneel, climb ladders, and traverse campus without restriction.
• Work may be performed in both indoor and outdoor school environments, sometimes in inclement weather.