Onsite Owner's Project Manager (K-12 School Projects)

SMMA's Project Management Group is seeking an experienced Onsite Owner's Project Manager to join our dynamic, integrated team of project managers, architects, engineers, technologists, researchers, and industry experts. This exciting opportunity offers a fast-paced, team-oriented environment that fosters intellectual and creative growth.
As an Onsite Owner's Project Manager, you will be responsible for delivering significant K-12 school projects on time and on budget. You will serve as the on-site representative for the owner, creating positive relationships with owners, designers, contractors, and vendors.
Key Responsibilities:

• Provide comprehensive on-site management for K-12 school construction projects
• Monitor construction quality and ensure plan and specification conformance
• Review certified payrolls and maintain detailed report logs
• Provide owners with accurate and timely project financials
• Assist in coordinating the punch list process and closing out documentation
• Create and maintain thorough project records, including communications, project budgets, contracts, RFIs, change orders, record plans, and submittals

Qualifications:

• Minimum 10 years of related experience in construction project management
• Proven experience as an Onsite Owner's Project Manager
• Demonstrated experience with Massachusetts public K-12 projects
• In-depth knowledge of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) processes and requirements
• Solid understanding of construction activities, sequences, and industry best practices
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong team leadership and management abilities
• Proven ability to organize and maintain comprehensive project records

Preferred Qualifications

• Massachusetts Certified Public Purchasing Official (MCPPO) certification
• Experience with sustainable building practices and LEED certification
• Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology
• Understanding of educational technology integration in construction projects

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in project management software and tools
• Knowledge of construction methodologies, building systems, and code requirements
• Expertise in schedule management and project planning techniques
• Understanding of quality assurance, quality control, and reliability principles

Project Management Competencies

• Stakeholder management and engagement
• Budget and financial management
• Scope management and change control
• Risk assessment and mitigation strategies
• Quality management and control

Personal Attributes

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail
• Adaptable and flexible in planning and execution
• Proactive approach to problem-solving
• Customer-focused mindset
• Emotional intelligence and ability to motivate teams

Industry-Specific Knowledge

• Deep understanding of K-12 educational environments and requirements
• Familiarity with public sector project dynamics and stakeholder needs
• Knowledge of relevant building codes, safety regulations, and ADA compliance
• Awareness of current trends and technologies in educational facilities

About the Firm
SMMA is one of New England’s most unique design firms due to our composition, reputation, and focus. Cambridge-based since our incorporation in 1955, we offer an integrated, multidisciplinary environment driven by collaboration between architects, engineers, technologists, researchers, and industry experts. We focus on building lasting relationships with strategic partners in both the public and private markets.
As an employee-owned firm, we believe that good ideas are welcome from anywhere. Our work straddles seven markets— K-12, Higher Education, Corporate, Commercial, Life Science, Federal Government, and Advanced Technology—with the opportunity to work across a wide range of projects and specialisms. We offer a fast-paced, team-oriented environment that promotes intellectual and creative growth.
SMMA was founded by MIT and Rensselaer alumni who believed that the balance of architecture, engineering, interiors, and site design afforded clients the agility of a single source of creative and technical expertise. Today, we remain dedicated to this flexible, integrated approach. We are guided by a shared pursuit of design excellence, sustainability, and social responsibility.
Company Perks

• Employee-owned firm with Employee Stock Ownership Program
• Hybrid work-from-home policy
• Competitive benefits including paid time-off, company-funded MA Paid Family and Medical Leave, company-paid dental plan, company-paid life insurance, and 401(K) matching
• Employee Assistance Program (includes confidential emotional support, legal guidance, and financial resources)
• Mentor/protégé program
• Educational reimbursement
• Licensure and membership reimbursement
• “Lunch and Learns” with internal and external speakers

At SMMA, we offer a collaborative work environment that promotes professional growth and innovation. Join our team and play a crucial role in shaping the future of educational facilities in Massachusetts.
Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply with their resume and portfolio demonstrating relevant experience in K-12 school construction projects.