Assistant Project Manager

About Lochridge-Priest, Inc.

Lochridge-Priest, a family-owned business operating over 60 years in Central Texas, boasts more than 400 dedicated employees across offices in Waco, Temple, and Fort Worth. The company's strength is rooted in a committed Texan workforce focused on excellence and community building.

Role Overview

The Assistant Project Manager collaborates closely with Project Managers on large commercial projects to ensure successful project delivery with a focus on quality, safety, budget adherence, customer satisfaction, and efficient team performance. This position plays a pivotal role in managing schedules, resources, and documentation to support seamless project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and meet client expectations.
• Plan and analyze project parameters, schedules, and procedures to achieve objectives.
• Collaborate directly with field labor management for scheduling, resource allocation, materials delivery, submittal statuses, and project progress.
• Utilize advanced Excel skills for weekly project cost monitoring and reporting.
• Prepare, transmit, and track project submittal documents to comply with specifications.
• Manage project change orders (PCOs) and secure necessary approvals before execution.
• Evaluate design changes for impact on cost and schedule, reporting findings promptly.
• Review contracts to ensure compliance with project scope and company agreements.
• Conduct risk analyses on contracts and develop mitigation plans.
• Engage with owners and contractors on project scope, budgets, performance, and closeout procedures.
• Support sales and estimating teams with quote preparations and proposals.
• Establish and maintain operational budgets aligned with validated project scope.
• Assist in preparing subcontractor RFQs including detailed scope, timelines, specs, bonding, and billing schedules.
• Evaluate subcontractor proposals and oversee assigned staff and subcontractor work.
• Manage project cash flow, billing, collections, and resource allocation.
• Handle customer concerns proactively, implement corrective actions, and maintain strong communication.
• Build professional relationships throughout the project lifecycle with effective communication and regular updates.
• Prepare monthly Work in Progress (WIP) reports and present updates during Project Management meetings.
• Promote a safe work environment through training, compliance, and leadership example.
• Alert senior management promptly to any issues posing risks to company interests.
• Conduct project site visits and lead weekly onsite meetings with field leadership and general contractors, communicating key points to senior management.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or equivalent education and experience (five years preferred).
• Project management certification or membership in relevant professional associations is advantageous.
• Proficient knowledge of HVAC and plumbing systems, construction methods, and materials.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, especially Excel, and experience with estimating software.
• Ability to interpret engineering, architectural, construction plans, and specifications; knowledge of building/mechanical codes is mandatory.
• Familiarity with construction contracts, bonding requirements, and risk assessment methodologies.
• Experience preparing budgets, forecasts, scope statements, cash flow, and construction reports.
• Adaptable in fast-paced, high-pressure settings with strong problem-solving and analytical capabilities.
• Strong mathematical aptitude and attention to detail to ensure task accuracy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with leadership and presentation effectiveness.
• Demonstrates integrity and adheres to ethical business practices.

Company Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance coverage.
• Paid time off including vacation, personal days, and holidays.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Ongoing training and opportunities for career advancement.

Additional Information

The company retains the right to modify job duties and responsibilities at its discretion without restrictions.