Lead Project Manager

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering has a Lead Project Manager opportunity available in Jacksonville, FL. This person is responsible for leading the successful execution of protection & control (P&C) projects involving generation plants, utility substations, campus electrical systems, and data centers. These projects include design, procurement, programming, installation, testing, and commissioning of protective relaying, control systems, switchgear, and communication networks. The Lead Project Manager oversees all aspects of project planning, budgeting, scheduling, and financial tracking while coordinating closely with clients, engineers, field commissioning teams, subcontractors, and office administration. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, detail-oriented, and highly organized, with prior experience managing electrical utility or industrial power projects from design through commissioning. Major Responsibilities This position requires the Lead Project Manager to provide project management services across generation, substation, campus, and data center environments. Responsibilities include: Manage Protection & Control projects for generation facilities, utility substations, campus power systems, and data centers ensuring alignment with internal and client standardsManage multiple projects simultaneously, from proposal through close-out, ensuring that all deliverables are completed safely, on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with contract requirementsPrepare and issue client invoices accurately and timely, ensuring alignment with contract terms, labor rates, and approved change ordersAct as the liaison between project management and business leadership, contributing to long-term strategic planning, forecasting, and client relationship developmentCoordinate with office administration to execute project reporting updates, cost tracking, billing packages, and other financial documentation required for monthly reporting and invoicingCoordinate internal resources (engineering, design, testing, commissioning, and field services) and third-party subcontractors to ensure proper project executionLead regular project progress meetings internally and with clients; prepare meeting minutes and action item trackersReview and interpret project scopes, drawings, and specifications; identify potential risks or scope gaps and communicate them proactivelyManage procurement of project materials and equipment, ensuring timely delivery aligned with construction and commissioning schedulesOversee and document change management — including change order preparation, pricing, negotiation, and client approvalMaintain accurate project documentation, schedules, correspondence, and close-out packages per company standardsSupport proposal efforts by developing cost estimates, work breakdown structures, and written assumptions/clarificationsMentor engineering staff with project management responsibilities, encouraging professional growth, ownership, and a culture of continuous improvementStay current with emerging technologies, industry trends, and regulatory changes, incorporating innovative solutions into project management practicesDevelop and maintain strong working relationships with clients, suppliers, and field teams, acting as the primary point of contact for all project communicationPromote a culture of safety, accountability, and quality throughout the project life cycleBe forward-thinking and proactive in improving internal processes — identifying efficiencies, recommending better reporting tools or workflows, and collaborating with peers and leadership to continuously refine how projects are managed and delivered Job Requirements Education A bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, or related technical discipline preferred. Experience 5–10 years of experience in project management is preferred, preferably within the electrical utility, industrial power, or EPC environmentExperience managing projects involving protective relaying, high voltage apparatuses, switchgear upgrades, substation modernization, generator controls, and power distribution systemsStrong understanding of project financial management, cost tracking, forecasting, and invoicing processesFamiliarity with scheduling tools (MS Project, Primavera) and document control systemsStrong communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with clients, engineers, and field personnelPMP certification or equivalent experience is a plus Other Requirements Possess and maintain a valid and unrestricted driver’s licenseOccasional travel to project sites may be required Physical Demands of Position Seeing, color perception, hearing, listening, clear speech, dexterity in hands, driving, lifting, climbing, ability to mount and dismount equipment, pushing, and pulling, warm and cold temperature conditions, sun exposure, moisture, potential exposure to hazardous materials and electrical voltages. Working Conditions On site environment could require work in various temperature conditions; in and/or around moisture, on slippery and/or uneven surfaces, in confined spaces, and at heights; will require frequent standing, driving a 4-wheel drive vehicle, and occasional bending, squatting, climbing, twisting, balancing, and reaching; will have exposure to noise, vibrations and chemicals. May require irregular or extended hours and travel for project completion. Job Descriptions are not exhaustive lists of all skills, responsibilities, or efforts associated with a job. They reflect principal job elements essential for performing the job and evaluating performance. Wunderlich-Malec is proud to offer a comprehensive employee-owner benefit package. Full-time employees may be eligible for the following benefits: Medical Dental Vision Basic and Supplemental Life and AD&D Long Term Disability Voluntary Short Term Disability Healthcare & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts Health Savings Account Paid Time Off (PTO) Paid Holidays Tuition Reimbursement Referral Bonus Program 401(k)/Profit Sharing 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) Employee Assistance Program Will Preparation Resources Worldwide Travel Assistance