Senior Administrator/Senior Project Manager

Wake County Public School System (WCPSS) is a leading educational institution renowned for its commitment to providing quality education and fostering a positive learning environment across numerous schools in North Carolina. The Facilities Design & Construction (FD&C) department plays a critical role in supporting the district's mission by managing capital improvement projects that enhance school infrastructure. Located at Crossroads III in Cary, NC, this department ensures that all construction and facility enhancement projects comply with Board of Education policies, maintaining operational continuity and safety within schools. WCPSS operates under a robust governance framework and employs a variety of professionals who are dedicated to building and sustaining state-of-the-art learning environments.

This opportunity is for the position of Senior Project Manager under the title of Senior Administrator Band 3, classified as an exempt, full-time role with a Monday through Friday work schedule. The position offers a hybrid telework option and occasional evenings or weekends may be required to meet project deadlines and support school functions. The Senior Project Manager will be responsible for overseeing the administration of facility capital improvement projects within WCPSS, ensuring adherence to established guidelines and procedures. This role involves close coordination with school administrators and other staff to minimize disruptions during construction while delivering projects on time and within budget. The incumbent will harness data management systems and apply sound business principles along with innovative practices to optimize project outcomes and reduce costs.

The Senior Project Manager will lead initiatives related to the preparation of project budgets, management plans, and contracts. During the project lifecycle, from pre-design through closeout phases, this role ensures the meticulous review of design documentation and construction cost estimates for compliance with internal standards and external regulatory requirements. Obtaining necessary approvals from various agencies such as the Department of Insurance and local municipalities is also a key responsibility. Furthermore, the position requires managing the bidding process for construction work, overseeing contractor schedules, monitoring on-site progress, and attending site meetings to ensure quality control and adherence to safety standards including OSHA requirements.

Additional responsibilities include monitoring change orders, processing payments, maintaining detailed technical records, and coordinating the delivery and installation of owner-furnished items like technology and security systems. The incumbent will also oversee punch list completions, warranty inspections, and documentation finalizations including as-built drawings and manuals. They must demonstrate leadership in supervising general construction and managing diverse stakeholder relationships including contractors, school administrators, teachers, and external agencies.

This position demands a comprehensive knowledge of construction project management, particularly in areas such as building automation systems and mechanical/HVAC construction. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Civil, or Architectural Engineering, Architecture, Finance, or Building Construction, complemented by a minimum of five years of related experience, are preferred. Possession of a valid North Carolina motor vehicle operator’s license is mandatory. Additional certifications such as Project Management Professional (PMP) are considered advantageous. The work environment is both office-based and field-oriented, requiring site visits that may involve light physical work and driving.

By joining WCPSS, the Senior Project Manager will contribute to shaping the physical landscape of educational facilities that impact thousands of students and staff, ensuring safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environments that support academic success and community engagement. The role offers a dynamic, collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a tangible difference in public education infrastructure.