Project Manager

The Project Manager is responsible for managing heavy civil construction projects from preconstruction through closeout. This role blends technical construction knowledge, financial oversight, planning, and leadership to ensure projects are delivered safely, on schedule, and within budget.

Project Managers at Burns Dirt are hands-on, field-connected leaders who work closely with Crew Leaders, Trade Managers, owners, subcontractors, and internal teams. The role emphasizes learning all aspects of Burns Dirt's operations and fully integrating into project execution, financial management, and team leadership.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Preconstruction & Planning

• Review project plans, specifications, and site conditions.
• Prepare accurate quantity takeoffs and assist with estimating.
• Communicate bid requirements to material suppliers and subcontractors.
• Support proposal development and technical writing.
• Visualize two-dimensional plans in three dimensions to anticipate construction challenges.

Project Execution & Coordination

• Work with Site Managers, Trade Managers and Crew Leaders to plan, schedule, and organize project activities.
• Prepare phase planning, resource planning, and construction schedules.
• Coordinate crews, materials, equipment, and subcontractors.
• Monitor project progress to ensure work is completed on schedule and within budget.
• Properly notify clients of delays related to weather, scope changes, or unforeseen conditions.

Financial Management & Cost Control

• Monitor job costs and productivity throughout the life of the project.
• Evaluate weekly construction methods and cost effectiveness.
• Identify budget risks and communicate concerns to Operations leadership.
• Prepare field estimates and manage change orders.
• Create and submit monthly pay applications.
• Review, manage, and approve subcontractor and supplier invoices.

Contract Administration & Communication

• Read, understand, and enforce plans, specifications, and contract requirements.
• Prepare and transmit submittals (materials, vendors) for approval.
• Negotiate revisions, changes, and additions to contractual agreements.
• Confer with owners, subcontractors, vendors, and design professionals to resolve issues.
• Maintain professional relationships with all project stakeholders.

Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Formulate reports using marked-up plans to show progress, costs, and scheduling.
• Track work progress against plans and budgets.
• Identify opportunities to improve project operations and efficiency.
• Submit improvement ideas and lessons learned to Operations leadership.

MEETING CADENCE & OPERATING RHYTHM

• Weekly Job Cost & Progress Review: Schedule, productivity, and budget tracking
• Weekly Operations Coordination: Alignment with Crew Leaders and Operations
• Monthly Financial Review: Pay applications, cost forecasting, and cash flow
• Quarterly Strategic Operations Review: Backlog planning, trends, lessons learned
• Annual Closeout & Lessons Learned Summit: Financial wrap-up and goal setting

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KPIs)

• Project schedule adherence
• Budget performance and cost variance
• Change order accuracy and timeliness
• Pay application accuracy and on-time submission
• Safety performance in coordination with field leadership
• Client satisfaction and relationship management

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field or equivalent experience
• 3-5 years of experience in construction
• Strong understanding of construction plans, specifications, and contracts
• Experience coordinating crews, subcontractors, and vendors
• Familiarity with Mississippi DOT and Alabama DOT standard specifications
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines independently

Preferred

• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Proficiency with HCSS HeavyJob
• Previous field crew or superintendent experience
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional discretion
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE

Projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget

Superintendents and Foremen are supported and aligned

Job costs are well-controlled with minimal surprises

Change orders and pay applications are accurate and timely

Clients view Burns Dirt as organized, responsive, and professional

WHY BURNS DIRT

Burns Dirt is a growing heavy civil contractor built on accountability, craftsmanship, and long-term thinking. We invest in our people, promote from within, and believe strong field leadership drives strong results. This role offers real influence, career growth, and the opportunity to shape how work gets done.