Assistant Project Manager I at J.A. Watts, LLC in Chicago, IL

Summary: J. A. Watts, LLC (JWI) is a woman-founded professional services firm known for its family culture. The Assistant Project Manager I is responsible for supporting Project Managers with various project management tasks within the aviation industry. Responsibilities: - Support project objectives, policies, procedures, and performance standards within boundaries of company policy and contract specifications - Assist in the adherence and utilization of the JWI Playbook in delivering all projects - Assist with writing technical documents, testing plans, and proposals - Assist and review design plans, specifications, and cost estimates - Serve as a positive and professional ambassador of JWI, fostering strong relationships with clients and strategic partners - Confer with clients, sub-consultants, and contractors to discuss work procedures, complaints and construction problems. Make recommendations to the Project Manager or own project adjustments accordingly - Shadow experienced team members to develop business development skills and deepen industry knowledge - Confer with clients, sub-consultants, and contractors to discuss work procedures, complaints and construction problems. Make recommendations to the Project Manager or own project adjustments accordingly - Assist the Project Manager to oversee project staff and jobsite construction activities - Aid in the investigation of potential situations, evaluate potential problems and make recommendations regarding corrective action - Assist in managing the design process, reviewing design submissions, and ensuring compliance with project requirements - Complete daily, weekly and monthly reports concerning work progress, costs, and scheduling - Review project schedule; coordinate schedule updates and distribute internally and externally - Assist in the review of contracts and facilitate revisions, changes and additions to contractual agreements with architects, consultants, clients, suppliers, contractors, vendors, and subcontractors - Help negotiate professional and contractual service agreements - Learn and implement the JWI Playbook and consistent project management practices within JWI - Schedule, attend and represent the company in project or strategy meetings. Assemble and distribute meeting minutes in a timely fashion - Assist in the review of contracts and facilitate revisions, changes and additions to contractual agreements with architects, consultants, clients, suppliers, contractors, vendors, and subcontractors - Help negotiate professional and contractual service agreements - Assist the Project Manager to understand the financial aspects of contract(s) to protect the company’s interest and simultaneously maintain good relationship with the client - Provide support to the Project Manager to help ensure that project deliverables are on time, within budget and at the required level of quality. Recommend opportunities for improvement - Develop, draft, and review proposed construction plans and specifications to meet client requirements - Produce and assist in the presentation of planning and programming documents to client - Individual Assistant Project Managers may be assigned smaller project(s) to manage - Ensure the timely submission of timesheets and expense reports - Perform other duties as required/directed Required Qualifications: - A bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture or Engineering, or equivalent work experience - 0-3 years of experience, preferably in engineering, project or construction management; transportation, construction, or aviation industries preferred - Current OSHA30 certification required or ability to obtain certification within 90 days of hire - AutoCAD experience required - Strong interpersonal, beginner administrative, and beginner organizational skills - Effective oral and written communication skills - Proficient analytical and problem-solving skills - Requires active project oversight - Ability to receive direction from superiors, balance multiple priorities, and assist with numerous projects - Ability to work and communicate effectively in a team environment, and meet deadlines - General understanding of the cost estimating process and project financial tracking - Knowledge of MS Office Suite and industry related project management software (e.g. Procore, Bluebeam, AutoCAD, MS Project, Excel) - Travel may be required depending on project specific needs or company business Preferred Qualifications: - Background in architecture or interior design preferred - Trade skill experience a plus Required Skills: OSHA30 certification, AutoCAD, Construction management, Architecture, Cost estimating, Project financial tracking, MS Office Suite, Procore, Bluebeam, MS Project, Excel, Analytical skills, Project management Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision insurance options for employees and family, Health Savings and Flexible Spending Account options available, Company-provided group life, short and long-term disability, and voluntary life options, Matching 401(k) retirement plan, Paid time off and holidays, Flexible work schedules, Student debt repayment resources available, Professional development and tuition assistance, ID Theft protection, Company-sponsored social events