Project Director - Asset Management

Job Purpose

J. A. Watts, Inc. (JWI) is a woman-owned professional services firm that believes in treating its clients and employees like family at every level of our company. Our family culture is what we're known for, and we work to stay true to who we are. That's how we manage our projects and how we recruit THE Best People in our industry. Our clients come from all walks of life, and so do we, which makes us stronger together.

This role is responsible for leading, managing, and communicating all aspects of the assigned project(s), including but not limited to asset management tasks, stakeholder coordination, cost control, client satisfaction, team performance, and quality functions. The Project Director must have a strong understanding of asset management for transportation agencies and will be responsible for the ultimate success of the project team members. This role will manage asset management projects at CCDOTH, Illinois Tollway, and other agencies nationwide. This role supports hybrid work and remote candidates will be considered. Travel may be required as-needed.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintain and build relationships of new and existing clients as the primary JWI contact
• Oversee and manage the project team through the entire project process
• Establish project objectives, goals, procedures and performance standards within boundaries of company policy and contract specifications
• Ensure effective and positive communication as the point of contact between the client and company
• Define the client's project scope, budget and schedule. Consult or negotiate as needed to finalize project specifications
• Review and approve technical documents, designs plans, specifications, proposals and cost estimates
• Responsible for ensuring project deliverables are on time, within budget, and at the required level of quality
• Manage approved budget and monitor actual expenses to ensure project remains within budget
• Analyze out of budget expenses and confirm they are offset in other areas of the project, unless justified
• Communicate project details, including plans, progress, issues, and concerns to senior leadership team on a regular basis
• Evaluate team adherence to the JWI Playbook and ensure consistent application of project management processes
• Effectively communicate the business value to prospective clients and partners through presentations, meetings and proposals
• Build and maintain strong, long-lasting client relationships to support and cultivate business opportunities
• Attend and participate with various industry and professional groups and networking associations
• Communicate with senior leadership team about future partnerships and projects
• Coach, mentor, and develop team by providing oversight, training, direction, and performance feedback in accordance with organizational policies and procedures
• Contribute to a workplace culture that is consistent with the company's mission, vision, and core values in every internal and external interaction
• Perform other duties as required/directed

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in Engineerging, Architecture, Construction Management or Business
• Eligibility to obtain a Professional Engineering License in the state of Illinois is preferred
• Experience in engineering design or construction management with increasing levels of responsibility
• 10+ years of experience providing asset management services preferred
• 5+ years of experience in project management and/or business development for a professional services firm
• Familiarity with pavement management systems and asset management software such as IBM Maximo and ArcGIS is preferred
• Experience working with governmental agencies, DOTs, and private clients preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; a persuasive communicator with excellent interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement effective solutions addressing process efficiency, project costs, budget parameters and customer demands to achieve desired results
• Ability to balance multiple priorities, work under pressure and communicate effectively in a team environment and meet deadlines
• Evidence of a high level of ethical behavior in exercising judgment and discretion in matters of significance
• Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop a team, including the ability to negotiate and effectively resolve conflict
• Advanced organizational and management skills
• Expertise in Microsoft Office programs required

Company Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance options for employee and family
• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Account options available
• Company-provided group life, short and long-term disability, and voluntary life options
• Matching 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and holidays
• Student debt repayment resources available
• ID Theft protection
• Professional development and tuition assistance
• Company-sponsored social events

Equal Opportunity Employer Veterans/Disabled

An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Salary Description

$155,000 - $185,000