About the Role
We are seeking a highly organized, client-facing Residential Project Manager to oversee high-end residential remodels, additions, and occasional new builds across Chicago’s North Shore. This office-first role (approximately 60% in-office, 40% in the field) is responsible for managing project schedules, coordinating trades, facilitating client communications, and ensuring smooth project closeouts in partnership with our Field Superintendent.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate deep experience with luxury or high-end residential projects, thrive in managing expectations of high-net-worth homeowners, maintain a “white glove” level of client service, and skillfully juggle multiple projects—typically 10–15 at various stages. You’ll partner closely with a field-based superintendent and serve as the primary point of accountability for project delivery, client satisfaction, and documentation quality.
Key Responsibilities
Scope & Role Ownership
- Own the overall delivery of assigned projects : schedule, trade / sub coordination, weekly client updates, and closeout / punch in partnership with the Field Superintendent.
- Serve as the direct leader for the Field Superintendent, setting project priorities, sequencing, and quality standards.
- Balance office-based planning and coordination with targeted site visits to oversee progress and address issues proactively.
Bidding & Estimating
Prepare detailed estimates and project budgets for remodels, additions, and occasional new builds.Send bid requests, review trade / vendor proposals for accuracy and value, and address scope gaps before project kickoff.Project Scheduling & Coordination
Develop, maintain, and adjust master project schedules across 10–15 concurrent jobs.Coordinate trade schedules for proper sequencing, access, and project logistics (including condo / HOA rules and site constraints).Monitor milestones, identify risks early, and resolve conflicts to ensure smooth project delivery and an exceptional client experience.Client Experience & Communication
Act as the main point of contact for homeowners, providing clear weekly updates and timely responses (within 24 hours or sooner).Anticipate client needs and potential concerns (access, noise, work-from-home impacts, hotel stays, etc.), communicating proactively rather than reactively.Communicate delays, scope changes, or constraints with confidence and professionalism, maintaining trust and boundaries.Uphold a "one-stop shop" standard of service befitting high-net-worth North Shore clientele.Project Oversight & Quality
Review blueprints, drawings, and specs to ensure field execution aligns with design intent and contract scope.Conduct targeted site visits to monitor progress, safety, accessibility, and readiness for upcoming trades.Manage punch lists and project closeout, delivering a high-quality, finished product our clients are proud of.Software, Documentation & CYA
Maintain project information, logs, photos, change orders, and key decisions in Buildertrend or similar software (training provided if needed).Ensure documentation is “bus test” compliant—allowing any team member to step in and understand the latest project status.Partner with the design team to communicate changes, selections, and constraints effectively to the field.Track budgets, allowances, invoices, and keep broader internal stakeholders aligned.Requirements
3–5+ years of proven experience as a Project Manager in residential construction, ideally managing complex remodels and additions (not commercial-only).Strong knowledge of residential construction methods, sequencing, and terminology.Proficient in reading and interpreting blueprints, architectural drawings, and construction documents.Demonstrated ability to manage 10–15 projects simultaneously at different stages without dropping critical details.Excellent communication, organization, and client-facing skills with a polished, service-oriented presence.Strong time management and follow-through capabilities.Tech-savvy and confident using Excel and construction / project management platforms (Buildertrend experience preferred but not required; we will train).Bachelor’s degree or formal certifications not required—experience and results matter most.Location
Primarily in-office (Wilmette, IL), with regular field / site visits across Chicago’s North Shore (Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Evanston, Highland Park); partial hybrid potential may be available over time based on performance.
Candidates must reside within a 30–45 minute commute to Wilmette / North Shore due to frequent site visits and client responsiveness; this is non-negotiable.Benefits
Benefits : 401(k) with match after one year, PTO, paid holidays, healthcare stipend (if needed), mileage / gas card, and company phone.Join our team and play a pivotal role in delivering exceptional residential experiences to discerning clients across Chicago’s North Shore.
