Assistant Project Manager - Data Center

CBRE DIRECTLINE, a CBRE Data Center Solutions business, is a leading technology infrastructure services provider enabling mission critical data center infrastructure for the world’s technology leaders. Catering to a broad spectrum of technology and client requirements, 1200+ skilled technicians deliver over 1000 projects annually across data center markets in the US and APAC. DL has proven success in the deployment of next-generation infrastructure technologies across the data center lifecycle; from design & planning, install & build through Day 2 maintenance, technology upgrades & retrofits, including delivering the latest wave of AI/ML platforms.

About The Role

The Assistant Project Manager (APM) will be a member of our operations team and will help drive the delivery of all the various network infrastructure and cabling projects within a particular site. This position requires development, management, customer engagement, operational, and leadership skills. The APM will establish the program schedule and ensure targets are met regarding schedule, cost, functionality, quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. The role includes consulting with clients, delivering presentations, resolving project issues, estimating, proposal writing, managing project costs, directing labor requirements, and assisting with purchasing and bill of materials.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the entire successful execution of a project, including planning, directing, coordinating, and budgeting activities.
• Participate in and lead the conceptual development of construction projects, overseeing organization, estimating, scheduling, and implementation.
• Develop program schedules and establish key milestones for delivery, ensuring financial and schedule targets align with customer goals.
• Identify and acquire resources required for project needs and revisions.
• Evaluate materials and products for constructability and feasibility during pre-construction.
• Oversee and prepare cost estimates at multiple stages.
• Initiate and coordinate design efforts and value engineering processes.
• Schedule projects in logical steps and budget time to meet deadlines.
• Determine labor requirements and dispatch workers to construction sites.
• Facilitate travel for technicians to project sites.
• Coordinate with superintendents and inspect projects for compliance with codes and regulations.
• Interpret and explain plans and contract terms to staff, workers, and clients.
• Prepare contracts and negotiate revisions, changes, and additions with designers, consultants, clients, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Obtain necessary permits and licenses.
• Direct and supervise team members in the office and on-site.
• Study job specifications to determine appropriate construction means and methods.
• Solicit, negotiate, select, contract, and oversee material suppliers and subcontractors.
• Requisition supplies and materials for construction projects.
• Prepare and submit budget estimates, progress reports, and cost tracking reports.
• Develop and implement quality control programs.
• Take action to address delays, bad weather, or emergencies at construction sites.
• Confer with supervisory personnel, owners, contractors, and designers to resolve work procedures, complaints, and construction problems.
• Plan, organize, and direct activities concerned with construction and maintenance of structures, facilities, and systems.
• Investigate damage, accidents, or delays at construction sites to ensure proper procedures are followed.
• Evaluate construction means and methods for cost-effectiveness.
• Manage, budget, and communicate the contract changes process.
• Develop and maintain the project schedule and financial plan.
• Prepare, maintain, and complete all aspects of the DL Way (project management playbook).
• Complete weekly and monthly reporting and projections.
• Train and develop the project team.
• Handle invoicing for clients and equipment/material purchasing.
• Review job cost postings for accuracy and completeness, including invoice preparation, customer collections, and financial reporting.
• Manage the Safety & Environment program, quality assurance program, and material logistics.
• Address human resource issues per company policies and procedures.
• Coordinate and partner with internal and external design, construction, network, and facility partners.
• Proactively communicate program status and risks to stakeholders.
• Prepare and take corrective action to address concerns and challenges.
• Act as the company liaison to the client, maintaining high client satisfaction and a collaborative environment.
• Be present on the jobsite for active on-site project management responsibilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, business management, electrical engineering, construction management, or similar experience.
• 1-3+ years of direct work experience in construction management, data centers, or a structured cabling environment.
• Track record of delivering mission-critical programs on time, within budget, and to applicable build, quality, and safety standards.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office.
• Contract negotiation and administration experience is a plus.
• Experience building and leading teams.
• Experience assessing, coaching, and mentoring direct reports and vendor teams.
• Strong organizational, time management, and coordination skills across multiple disciplines.
• Client engagement experience in similar programs is preferred.
• Understanding of program management fundamentals such as earned value management, SPI, CPI, and other project tracking metrics.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent certification preferred.
• BICSI RCDD or similar telecommunications certifications preferred.

Benefits

• Relocation assistance and sign-on bonuses may be available for qualified candidates based on role requirements and experience.
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship now or in the future.

CBRE is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, veteran status, political belief, or any other basis protected by applicable law.