Project Manager (Capital Improvement Program)

Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Project Manager

Annual Salary: $130,456.28 - $158,546.00 (DOQ) plus Excellent Benefits Package and First Application Review: April 30, 2026

The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is recruiting for a highly motivated and skilled Capital Improvement (CIP) Project Manager with strong experience in planning, organizing, and directing all phases of complex capital improvement projects, from start (planning and design) to finish (construction), including building renovations, infrastructure upgrades, parks, streets, sidewalks, storm drains, shoreline structures etc. Be a part of the team that shapes one of California's most iconic coastal communities!

This position requires at least three (3) years of managing both the design and construction phases of Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects in a municipal agency. Candidates must be self-motivated, problem solvers, capable of managing complex projects, and be ready to "hit the ground running" with a multi-million-dollar CIP program.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is an expert in all phases of CIP from planning and budgeting, consultant design management, and have a proven track record in construction management and inspection. The CIP Program Manager will work independently to manage all CIP project types from building renovations, streets, parks, and utilities so strong analytical problem solving and project management skills are a must. You have strong experience navigating the complexities of public works, managing consultants, overseeing contracts, and providing technical reports to executives and council members. You thrive in environments that require independent judgment, strategic planning, and firm, fair management of contractors.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Strong CIP Expertise: Prospective candidates must demonstrate extensive Capital Improvement Programming experience, including managing "Five-Year CIP" documents, identifying infrastructure needs, developing complex project estimates, managing budgets, bidding process and final inspections.
• Contract Administration: Manage consultant and contractor selection processes, oversee contract management, and approve construction amendments/change orders.
• Budget & Schedule Oversight: Develop and monitor project budgets, ensure projects stay within budget and prepare cost estimates.
• Stakeholder Communication: Serve as the liaison between the City, consultants, contractors, and the public, including preparing reports.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure projects comply with federal, state, and local codes, including ADA requirements and environmental regulations (CEQA/NEPA).
• Site Inspection: Conduct field visits to construction sites to inspect progress, verify quality, and troubleshoot problems.

Examples of Duties

• Perform condition assessments of public infrastructure and buildings, identify, prioritize, and recommend projects with cost estimates for funding in the 5-year Capital Improvement Program.
• Prepare requests for qualifications and requests for proposals for professional consultant services, evaluate qualifications and proposals, lead selection committees, prepare and negotiate scope of work, fees, and schedules for professional services agreements, and process amendments.
• Conduct field investigations, evaluate project feasibility, and check survey maps, geotechnical reports, design studies, calculations, traffic control plans, and right-of-way information.
• Check and recommend for approval construction drawings, and special conditions and technical specifications for infrastructure and building renovation projects. Process project for environmental, building, and other permits.
• Assemble bid and construction contract documents. Administer the public bidding process, conduct pre-bid meetings, issue addenda, and review bid proposals.
• Provide construction management and field inspection services to ensure compliance with plans and specifications, check submittals and progress payments, manage schedules and budgets, and ensure public safety.
• Coordinate projects with design consultants, utility representatives, adjacent property owners, businesses, and other agencies and City departments.
• Represent the City effectively in meetings with commissions, community groups, professional organizations, other agencies, and the public.
• Prepare and present City Council and Commission agenda reports for all phases of projects.
• Conduct public meetings regarding CIP projects. Issue surveys, compile data, and make recommendations.
• Develop master plans, engineering reports, standard details, and plan notes.

Typical Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in civil engineering, construction management, public administration, or a related field.
• Experience: A minimum of three years of experience in public works, engineering project management, or construction management, including contract administration, plan review, and coordination of funding sources.
• License(s): Possession of a valid Class "C" California driver's license with a satisfactory driving record. Possession of a valid State of California Professional Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineer and/or Architecture license is highly desirable.

Key Skills & Expertise

• Knowledge of Federal, State, and local regulations governing public works projects
• Familiarity with CEQA/NEPA processes and public funding requirements
• Strong budgeting, scheduling, and contract management skills
• Ability to interpret engineering plans and technical documents
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision

Supplemental Information

To be considered for this career opportunity, you must submit a complete online application at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/carmelca/, and answers to the supplemental questionnaire. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a complete online application. Incomplete applications and/or supplemental questionnaire will be rejected. Applications will be screened in relation to the criteria in this job announcement. Applicants with the most relevant qualification will be invited to interview. Potential candidates from outside California (Monterey County region) are strongly encouraged to research the cost of housing and overall cost of living in the area before applying. The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is an equal employment opportunity employer and encourages all qualified individuals to submit an application for this opportunity. The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All City of Carmel-by-the-Sea employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.