Project Director (K-14) – Los Angeles, CA

Salary Range: $170,000–$185,000 annually
Work Location: Los Angeles, CA (on-site or hybrid as applicable)

Overview

The Project Director will lead the delivery of K-14 public education construction programs from planning through closeout, serving as the owner’s representative. This role oversees multiple project teams and is responsible for managing scope, schedule, and budget while ensuring compliance with all design and construction standards, including DSA requirements. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in educational facility construction, exceptional stakeholder communication skills, and a proven track record of successfully delivering complex capital programs in public agency environments.

Must Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field
Minimum 10 years of experience in project/program management for K-12 or K-14 educational construction projects
Proven success overseeing large capital improvement or bond-funded education programs
Deep knowledge of Division of the State Architect (DSA) construction and design processes
Strong expertise in pre-construction, design review, cost estimation, scheduling, and construction oversight
Exceptional ability to manage scope, schedule, and budget with clear accountability
Demonstrated success in resolving disputes and implementing risk mitigation strategies
Proven ability to supervise, mentor and manage a team of project managers and engineers
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with project controls software
Experience presenting in public forums, client meetings, and oversight committees

Nice to Haves

Master’s degree or advanced certification in a construction-related field
CMAA Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Construction Manager in Training (CMIT)
Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) or similar project delivery certification
Professional registration as a Licensed Architect or Professional Engineer
Experience working with California Department of Education (CDE) and OPSC compliance
Familiarity with alternative delivery methods such as Design-Build or Lease-Leaseback
Knowledge of project accounting systems and cost controls in public agency settings
Experience in managing community outreach or bond oversight committee relations
Past leadership on higher education construction projects (in addition to K-12)

Responsibilities

Lead and manage capital improvement programs in K-14 public education environments
Serve as the primary liaison between the owner and external design/construction teams
Develop, implement, and maintain program quality management systems
Oversee preparation and execution of all project contracts, documents, budgets, and schedules
Monitor and report project progress, risks, cost tracking, and mitigation plans
Ensure timely completion of all project deliverables and contractual milestones
Coordinate and chair meetings with stakeholders, agencies, architects, and contractors
Prepare and present status reports and dashboards for internal and public presentations
Provide guidance and supervision to internal staff including Project Managers and Engineers
Ensure contractor compliance with safety, quality, and staffing requirements
Review and validate change orders and coordinate construction-related negotiations
Develop master implementation schedules and execution plans aligned with client priorities
Support the client with financial reporting and coordination with oversight committees
Facilitate effective resolution of field issues, conflicts, and design clarifications
Conduct regular site visits, field observations, and documentation reviews
Uphold project goals for inclusion, sustainability, and community engagement
Approve invoices, manage contract amendments, and track consultant/contractor performance
Adapt program strategy as needed to maintain progress and meet district goals
Execute duties with a focus on client satisfaction and program success

Project Director, Institutional - Educa...