Project Director - Asset Management

DescriptionJob PurposeJ. 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 ResponsibilitiesMaintain and build relationships of new and existing clients as the primary JWI contactOversee and manage the project team through the entire project processEstablish project objectives, goals, procedures and performance standards within boundaries of company policy and contract specificationsEnsure effective and positive communication as the point of contact between the client and companyDefine the client’s project scope, budget and schedule. Consult or negotiate as needed to finalize project specificationsReview and approve technical documents, designs plans, specifications, proposals and cost estimatesResponsible for ensuring project deliverables are on time, within budget, and at the required level of qualityManage approved budget and monitor actual expenses to ensure project remains within budgetAnalyze out of budget expenses and confirm they are offset in other areas of the project, unless justifiedCommunicate project details, including plans, progress, issues, and concerns to senior leadership team on a regular basisEvaluate team adherence to the JWI Playbook and ensure consistent application of project management processesEffectively communicate the business value to prospective clients and partners through presentations, meetings and proposalsBuild and maintain strong, long-lasting client relationships to support and cultivate business opportunitiesAttend and participate with various industry and professional groups and networking associationsCommunicate with senior leadership team about future partnerships and projectsCoach, mentor, and develop team by providing oversight, training, direction, and performance feedback in accordance with organizational policies and proceduresContribute to a workplace culture that is consistent with the company’s mission, vision, and core values in every internal and external interactionPerform other duties as required/directedRequirementsA bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management or BusinessEligibility to obtain a Professional Engineering License in the state of Illinois is preferredExperience in engineering design or construction management with increasing levels of responsibility10+ years of experience providing asset management services preferred5+ years of experience in project management and/or business development for a professional services firmFamiliarity with pavement management systems and asset management software such as IBM Maximo and ArcGIS is preferredExperience working with governmental agencies, DOTs, and private clients preferredExcellent verbal and written communication skills; a persuasive communicator with excellent interpersonal skillsDemonstrated ability to develop and implement effective solutions addressing process efficiency, project costs, budget parameters and customer demands to achieve desired resultsAbility to balance multiple priorities, work under pressure and communicate effectively in a team environment and meet deadlinesEvidence of a high level of ethical behavior in exercising judgment and discretion in matters of significanceDemonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop a team, including the ability to negotiate and effectively resolve conflictAdvanced organizational and management skillsExpertise in Microsoft Office programs requiredCompany BenefitsMedical, Dental, Vision insurance options for employee and familyHealth Savings and Flexible Spending Account options availableCompany-provided group life, short and long-term disability, and voluntary life optionsMatching 401(k) retirement planPaid time off and holidaysStudent debt repayment resources availableID Theft protectionProfessional development and tuition assistanceCompany-sponsored social eventsEqual Opportunity Employer Veterans/DisabledAn 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-10-06