Project Leader

M.C. Dean designs, builds, operates, and maintains cyber-physical solutions for mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. With over 7,000 employees, our capabilities span electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life-safety, automation and controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, we deliver resilient, secure, and innovative power and technology solutions through engineering expertise and smart systems integration.

About the role

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Project Leader to join our Automation Systems Division. In this role, you will oversee and manage the successful execution of automation systems projects for our clients. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in project management, a deep understanding of automation systems, and excellent leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage automation systems projects from initiation to completion, ensuring adherence to project scope, budget, and timeline.
• Collaborate with clients, engineering teams, and stakeholders to define project requirements, objectives, and deliverables.
• Develop detailed project plans, work breakdown structures, and schedules to guide project execution.
• Monitor project progress, identify and resolve issues, and proactively manage project risks and changes.
• Lead a team of engineers, technicians, and support staff, providing guidance, support, and direction throughout the project lifecycle.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance team culture, encouraging knowledge sharing and professional development.
• Assign tasks, set clear expectations, and manage team performance to ensure project objectives are met.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical, mechanical, and software engineers, to deliver integrated automation systems solutions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs and ensuring their satisfaction throughout the project.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, addressing their concerns, providing updates, and managing expectations effectively.
• Regularly communicate project status, progress, and milestones to clients and stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment.
• Ensure that automation systems projects meet the highest quality standards and comply with relevant industry codes and regulations.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits to verify compliance with design specifications, safety standards, and project requirements.
• Implement and enforce quality control processes and procedures, driving continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
• Develop and manage project budgets, tracking project expenses and resources to ensure optimal utilization and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with procurement and supply chain teams to source and manage project materials, equipment, and subcontractors.
• Monitor project financials, forecast expenditures, and proactively identify opportunities to improve project profitability.
• Travel approximately 25% of the time for on-site visits and client meetings.
• Apply working technical knowledge of automation systems, including switchgear, power distribution, metering, motor control centers, and related technologies.
• Provide technical guidance and support to the project team, resolving complex issues and ensuring successful project delivery.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in engineering with 5+ years of experience, or Bachelor’s degree in engineering with 7+ years of experience.
• Proven experience leading and managing cross-functional project teams.
• Experience with Primavera P6 CPM Scheduling or equivalent.
• Financial literacy and demonstrated knowledge of project financial reporting.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making abilities.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
• Project management certifications such as PMP or CAP are highly desirable.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required government security clearances as needed.
• Working knowledge of automation systems, including switchgear, power distribution, metering, motor control centers, and related technologies.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams.
• Willingness to learn and grow in a project leadership role.
• Exposure to computer screens for extended periods of time.
• Ability to sit for extended periods and reach by extending hands or arms in any direction.
• Finger dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, such as using a keyboard.
• Strong listening, speaking, and reading comprehension skills.
• Ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce logical answers.
• Valid driver’s license and vehicle for transportation to customer sites; acceptable driving record in accordance with company policy.
• Attend regular in-person meetings with customers outside of assigned office.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance.
• Generous paid time off.
• Relocation assistance.
• 401K Retirement Plan.

Pay

USD $125,120.00 – USD $156,400.00 per year.