Project Manager - Distribution Modernization

Project Manager - Distribution Modernization Direct Hire Houston, TX Our Clients Transmission & Distribution global practice is seeking a Project Manager to join their growing Distribution Modernization business in our South-Central Region. The Project Manager will manage, direct, and coordinate all aspects of distribution engineering work. Project Managers are expected to proactively grow client relationships into repeat business and expand service offerings. They will be responsible for the profit and loss of individual projects, the successful completion of projects within specified dates, and the establishment and maintenance of a professional and satisfactory relationship with the client, subcontractors, regulatory agencies, and other project stakeholders. Additionally, the Project Manager will assist with pursuing new clients and maintaining existing clients through direct marketing responsibilities. Office location to be Houston, Texas. Primary responsibilities of the Project Manager will include: Provide overall management of projects from concept to completion, including routing/siting, environmental, permitting, planning, estimating, engineering, right-of-way acquisition, project controls, procurement, construction administration, and closeout. Leverage existing client relationships, create new client relationships, and focus on repeat work within each client account. Serve as the primary point of contact with clients. Prepare proposals, assist in presentations, and participate in contract negotiations. Develop and monitor project schedules, manage scope, and control project costs. Own internal project financials (detailed, accurate project cost forecast and accruals), legal coordination, risk management, and change management. Manage all aspects of project communication. Develop and implement project policies and procedures, establish project controls systems, and implement project execution plans. Work closely with the project team to ensure deliverables and services are provided to the client's satisfaction and that projects follow internal QA/QC guidelines. Report regularly on progress, cost and schedule metrics, procurement issues, safety or environmental concerns, design questions, potential impacts, and matters requiring support. Work with department managers for appropriate project staffing and support the development of the Distribution team by assisting with hiring, training, and mentoring. Travel to clients and project locations is expected. All other duties as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction, or a related field from an accredited university. Additional applicable experience may be substituted for the degree requirement. Minimum of 7 years of progressive Distribution Engineering experience, including 3 or more years of experience managing engineering projects required. Completion of a master's degree in a related field may be substituted for one year of experience. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. This position requires an individual capable of applying intensive and diversified knowledge of principles and practices to broad areas of assignments. Excellent oral and written communication skills and interpersonal skills. Must have the ability to clearly and effectively present complex information to all levels of employees, management, and clients. Must have experience with the production of distribution design and construction documents. Requires knowledge and experience working with the NESC code, as well as other industry codes and standards. Must be capable of devising new approaches to problems encountered. Demonstrate prior success in project management. Proven ability to develop business and establish relationships with clients. Professional Engineering (PE) registration preferred. Project Management Professional (PMP) certification preferred. Ability to travel. Valid driver's license required. Previous consulting experience preferred. Key Skills Ability to create scope, schedule, budget for new projects, manage from notice to proceed through as-built/closeout.  Must be able to speak and lead effectively, leading a team over multiple concurrent projects.  High sales and client relationship acumen. Preferred Qualifications: Understanding of project life cycles, sales acumen, experience leading a team and successful project execution. This role has typically been hard to fill from a Utility employee or smaller consulting company. Our project managers wear several hats. They essentially act as the owners of their own "business". They are responsible for the maintenance and sales of their clients, the production, quality, and ultimate success of their projects. This is where having a good sense of how distribution projects are run from beginning to end benefits the right candidate. They will also be responsible for sending, tracking, and confirming payment of client invoices. This all comes with a great deal of trust and autonomy, so we expect a candidate to come in and be very driven to succeed.  ESPO Corporation 630-789-2525 View all open jobs at Leaders in Technical Recruiting & Staffing since 1965 ESPO has a comprehensive benefits package which includes PTO, Group Health and Dental Insurance, and 401k after you have satisfied the necessary waiting periods. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value the benefits of diversity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity and expression, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, or any other attribute or protected characteristic by law. If you need assistance applying, please get in touch with us directly.

Created: 2026-04-02