Construction Project Manager - Retail & Restaurant Construction

Job Title: Project Manager – Retail & Restaurant Construction

Location: Columbus, OH

Direct Hire / Full Time

Our client, a leading construction firm in Columbus OH, has an immediate need for a Project Manager with experience in retail and restaurant ground up construction. The Project Manager is responsible for overseeing all phases of retail and restaurant construction projects—from preconstruction through closeout—ensuring that each project is delivered safely, on time, within budget, and in accordance with design and brand standards. This role requires a detail-oriented leader with deep experience managing fast-track buildouts, remodels, and ground-up projects for national and regional retail or restaurant clients.

Key Responsibilities:

Project Planning & Preconstruction

• Lead preconstruction efforts including budgeting, scheduling, value engineering, and constructability reviews.

• Develop comprehensive project plans, timelines, and cost estimates.

• Coordinate with clients, architects, and engineers to ensure alignment on design intent and deliverables.

• Prepare and negotiate subcontractor and vendor agreements.

Project Execution & Management

• Manage all aspects of project delivery from mobilization through final turnover.

• Oversee and support field operations to ensure quality, safety, and productivity.

• Monitor project budgets, costs, and schedules to ensure financial and contractual compliance.

• Lead weekly project meetings with clients, field teams, and subcontractors.

• Track and process RFIs, submittals, change orders, and pay applications.

Client & Stakeholder Relations

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and design teams.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with owners, franchise representatives, and brand managers.

• Communicate project progress, risks, and solutions proactively.

• Deliver exceptional client service throughout the project lifecycle.

Financial Management

• Develop and maintain project budgets and forecasts.

• Review and approve invoices, subcontractor payments, and cost reports.

• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or schedule.

Safety & Quality Control

• Enforce compliance with safety standards, policies, and OSHA regulations.

• Ensure all work meets or exceeds company and client quality expectations.

• Coordinate final inspections, punch lists, and turnover documentation.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead project teams including superintendents, engineers, and administrative staff.

• Mentor and support field personnel to drive accountability and excellence.

• Foster a collaborative, solutions-oriented team culture.

Qualifications:

Required:

• 5–10 years of experience managing retail and/or restaurant construction projects.

• Proven success delivering multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong understanding of construction means and methods, contracts, scheduling, and cost control.

• Proficiency with project management software (e.g., Procore, MS Project, Bluebeam, Excel).

• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field.

• Experience with national retail or restaurant brands

• OSHA 30-hour certification.

• Experience with both ground-up and tenant improvement (TI) projects.