Jobs · Engineering · Iowa

MEP Project Manager (Owner's Representative) - Data Center Construction

KALCON · Cedar Rapids, IA · 2 days ago
On-siteEngineering$140k/yrFull-time

About the role

KALCON is seeking an experienced MEP Project Manager to serve as an Owner’s Representative on large-scale, mission-critical construction projects. This role represents the owner/developer’s interests throughout design, construction, commissioning, and closeout, with primary responsibility for oversight and coordination of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, controls, and related building systems.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee multiple MEP tenant fit-out and base building projects simultaneously, maintaining updated budgets, schedules, and status reports across all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing scopes.
  • Conduct regular schedule reviews and lead weekly project meetings; perform routine site walks to validate installation progress, sequencing, and alignment with project milestones.
  • Serve as a key liaison between the Client, contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders, supporting coordination of procurement, equipment delivery, and overall project execution.
  • Manage and coordinate project activities including document reviews, cost optimization, contract administration, design modifications, and GMP/buyout processes.
  • Lead MEP design coordination, preconstruction, and construction activities, including submittal reviews, trade coordination, and QA/QC oversight in partnership with the construction team.
  • Maintain and enforce project quality and safety standards through regular site observations, coordination with safety teams, and reporting of key metrics.
  • Review and approve contractor pay applications, change orders, and other cost-related documentation; track and manage overall project financial performance.
  • Facilitate and document project meetings (OAC, design, coordination, and trade partner meetings), maintaining clear communication and accountability across all stakeholders.
  • Oversee document control and project management systems (e.g., Procore), ensuring accurate records, reporting, and successful project closeout.
  • Collaborate with Operations and Commissioning teams to support construction in live environments, including development of MOPs and coordination of critical work activities.
  • Support commissioning, startup, and turnover activities, ensuring systems are delivered in accordance with project requirements and operational standards.
  • Manage third-party vendors and ensure successful delivery of all assigned scopes.
  • Monitor project budgets and schedules, providing regular updates and reports to leadership and key stakeholders.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of internal project management processes and best practices.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred, but not required with equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years of experience working with MEP systems on commercial, industrial, mission-critical, or data center construction projects in a project management, field management, or owner-support role.
  • Working knowledge of MEP systems (electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, and controls) sufficient to support coordination, review, and oversight activities.
  • Experience interacting with general contractors, subcontractors, and design teams, with the ability to track progress, observe work in the field, and flag potential issues.
  • Experience on data center or mission-critical projects is a strong plus, but not required.
  • Proficiency with common construction tools such as Procore, Bluebeam, Microsoft Office, or similar platforms.

Qualifications

  • Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
  • At least 5 years of experience in project management, field management, or owner-support roles on MEP systems.
  • Proven experience in coordinating and overseeing MEP systems on various types of construction projects.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with clients, contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and maintain project timelines and budgets.
  • Knowledge of industry standards and best practices for MEP systems and construction projects.

Skills

  • Strong organizational and project management skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other construction management software.
  • Experience with data center or mission-critical projects is a strong plus, but not required.

Benefits

  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with 4% KALCON match when an employee contributes at least 5%
  • 15 days of paid time off
  • 8 paid National Holidays
  • Reimbursement for professional licenses and certifications

Pay

$140,000 USD - $220,000 USD

Schedule

Full-time position

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