Project Manager/CVS in Training

Position Overview

The CVS-in-Training position is a structured, developmental role designed to prepare high-potential professionals for future leadership positions as Project Managers and Certified Value Specialists (CVS) Team Leaders. This role provides comprehensive exposure to SVS's project delivery model, Value Methodology, and client engagement processes while supporting candidates through the formal path to CVS Certification through SAVE International.

The primary focus of this position is gaining a deep, working knowledge of the responsibilities of SVS Project Managers and Team Leaders, while actively working toward CVS certification. A critical secondary focus is mastering the Project Coordinator role, which forms the operational backbone of successful Value Studies and workshops. This hands-on experience allows CVS-in-Training staff to contribute meaningfully to active projects and maximize project billability throughout the training period.

As proficiency is demonstrated, individuals will progressively transition into Assistant Team Leader and Assistant Project Manager responsibilities, building the technical, facilitation, and leadership skills required to independently manage projects and lead Value Study teams.

This role is ideal for detail-oriented, driven professionals who are eager to grow into client-facing leadership roles within a collaborative, process-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. CVS Certification Development

• Actively pursue Certified Value Specialist (CVS) certification by meeting all education, experience, and participation requirements as defined by SAVE International.
• Participate in approved training courses, workshops, and professional development activities under the guidance of a CVS Advisor and/or the CVS-in-Training Manager.
• Maintain accurate records of certification progress and demonstrate continuous advancement toward certification milestones.

2. Project Coordination & Workshop Support

• Manage pre-workshop logistics, ensuring all schedules, materials, resources, and communications are coordinated effectively for internal teams, clients, and subconsultants.
• Serve as a key logistical support resource during workshops by organizing supplies, tracking deliverables, and ensuring all documentation and tools are available and properly prepared.
• Document and organize workshop outputs, results, and supporting materials, assisting the CVS Team Leader as needed during and after sessions.
• Coordinate the development of draft and final project reports, including:
• Collecting inputs from Value Team Members
• Assembling report sections
• Managing revisions and edits
• Ensuring all deliverables comply with SVS standards, including the SVS Style Manual and Quality Control (QC) Checklist
• Oversee post-workshop and project closeout activities, including:
• Finalizing and distributing reports
• Reconciling project expenses
• Ensuring all project documentation is complete, accurate, and properly archived

3. Project Management Support

• Assist with project planning, execution, tracking, and documentation under the supervision of experienced Project Managers.
• Prepare and maintain Project Management Plans in accordance with SVS policies and procedures.
• Review subconsultant invoices for contractual compliance and accuracy.
• Support timely invoicing by ensuring SVS invoices are complete, accurate, and submitted in accordance with client and contract requirements.

Assist the Project Initiation Team with:

• Development of project fee proposals
• Identification and coordination of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for upcoming Value Studies

4. Team Leadership Development

• Support CVS Team Leaders during workshops, including assisting with facilitation across multiple phases of the Value Methodology.
• Develop a strong understanding of SVS's methodologies, processes, procedures, and analytical techniques, and the rationale behind them.
• Build and maintain trust-based, professional relationships with clients, positioning SVS as a valued and integrated project partner.
• Ensure workshop results, reports, and deliverables meet SVS quality standards and are completed on schedule.
• Develop and review assigned sections of Value Study reports and other deliverables, including:
• Completing the Report Preparation Guide (RPG)
• Supporting Team Leader Quality Control (QC) reviews
• Performing additional report development or review tasks as assigned

5. Additional Responsibilities

• Take on special projects and assignments that support organizational goals and business growth.
• Proactively identify opportunities for process improvement, efficiency gains, and innovation within project delivery and workshop execution.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement, professional development, and team success.

Qualifications & Skills

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, construction management, business, architecture, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
• 2-5 years of professional experience.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and project coordination skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• High attention to detail with a strong commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Willingness to pursue CVS certification and long-term growth within SVS.

Preferred:

• Experience supporting projects, workshops, or consulting engagements.
• Familiarity with Value Methodology, project management principles, or facilitation (training provided).
• Experience working with cross-functional teams, consultants, or clients.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $80, $90,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending