Project Manager- Industrial/Cold Storage

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid/Office-Based) or Travel-Based (Project Sites Nationwide)

Employment Type: Full-Time

About the Role:

We are seeking a proactive and experienced Project Manager to lead the successful delivery of cold storage and food & beverage construction projects. Whether based in our Chicago office or embedded on-site, this role is instrumental in driving technical excellence, client satisfaction, and seamless coordination from preconstruction through closeout.

This is an opportunity to manage high-performance, temperature-controlled environments that support the critical infrastructure of food manufacturing, distribution, and logistics across the U.S.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead all phases of industrial construction projects, including budgeting, scheduling, procurement, and client communication.

Oversee coordination between architects, engineers, subcontractors, and owners to ensure alignment on scope, design, and execution.

Manage subcontractor buyouts, contract negotiations, and change management processes.

Monitor schedule and cost performance, proactively identifying risks and resolving issues before they impact delivery.

Ensure compliance with industry regulations, food safety standards (USDA, FDA), and internal quality control protocols.

Support the commissioning and turnover process, ensuring all project documentation is complete and accurate. Qualifications:

7+ years of experience managing construction projects in the cold storage, food, or beverage industries.

Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams through fast-paced, complex builds involving refrigeration, hygienic systems, and high-performance enclosures.

Proficient in construction scheduling, budgeting, contract administration, and reporting.

Strong knowledge of safety regulations, food-grade construction requirements, and temperature-controlled environments.

Excellent communication and leadership skills, with a collaborative and detail-oriented approach.

Proficiency with construction software such as Procore, Bluebeam, Microsoft Project, and Excel.

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.

Willingness to travel for project-based assignments if not based in Chicago. Preferred:

Experience managing both field and office teams across multiple locations.

Familiarity with design-build delivery models and fast-track project schedules.

Background in commissioning cold storage systems or integration of automation and material handling solutions. What We Offer:

Competitive salary and performance-based bonus potential.

Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) match, and more.

Flexibility to work from our Chicago office or in the field, based on your strengths and preferences.

The opportunity to build innovative facilities that serve essential industries.

A supportive, team-driven culture that values quality, accountability, and long-term partnerships.