Job Title: Construction Project Manager
Job Description
This role provides onsite leadership for the execution of large-scale construction projects at a power generation facility. The Construction Project Manager oversees all phases of project implementation, from contractor selection and construction oversight through startup, performance testing, and environmental compliance. The position ensures that projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively while meeting schedule, budget, quality, and regulatory requirements. This is a strong opportunity for professionals seeking contract-only work on complex utility and power generation projects.
Responsibilities
Provide onsite management and daily oversight of contractors and subcontractors to ensure construction activities comply with contract documents, specifications, and applicable codes and regulations.
Lead and promote a strong safety culture by enforcing all safety policies and procedures, administering safety programs, conducting safety assessments, and supporting accident and incident investigations in coordination with the safety team.
Monitor and manage quality control and quality assurance processes to ensure construction quality standards are met, and identify and resolve construction specification discrepancies in a timely manner.
Track and report project performance related to safety, schedule, cost, quality, risk, and production, and escalate issues requiring management attention promptly.
Coordinate with external contractors, equipment manufacturers, and vendors to support permitting, equipment selection, design specifications, scheduling, and cost estimating.
Serve as the onsite point of contact for contractors, internal project teams, customers, local government agencies, and community stakeholders, ensuring clear and professional communication.
Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, including those from OSHA, DOT, DNR, and other governing bodies.
Develop and manage project punch lists, validate contractor milestones and quantities for payment, and assist in resolving field issues to keep projects on track.
Supervise and support field personnel, ensuring safe, efficient, and effective work practices throughout the project lifecycle.
Review project documentation, including drawings and specifications, to guide construction activities and verify adherence to design intent.
Support startup and performance testing activities to confirm systems and equipment operate in accordance with project requirements and performance expectations.
Contribute to cost control and financial reporting by monitoring expenditures, validating contractor invoices, and supporting budget updates as needed.
Essential Skills
Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in construction-related roles such as construction management, project controls, or QA/QC.
Minimum of 3 years of supervisory or leadership experience overseeing field personnel, contractors, or project teams.
Demonstrated experience managing large, complex construction projects, preferably within utilities, power generation, natural gas, or fossil fuel environments.
Strong knowledge of construction standards, safety regulations, and applicable building codes.
Proven ability to manage project budgets, schedules, and financial reporting with a focus on cost-effective delivery.
Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills for effective interaction with contractors, internal teams, customers, and external stakeholders.
Proficiency with standard computer software, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, and project management tools.
Ability to monitor and enforce safety programs and support incident investigations.
Ability to oversee and evaluate quality control and quality assurance processes on construction sites.
Valid driver's license.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
Experience supporting large electric construction projects, gas and electric operations, or renewable energy projects.
Experience working with labor unions and unionized workforces.
Ability to read and interpret drawings, plans, profiles, and maps.
Familiar with utilities, power generation, natural gas, or fossil fuel projects.
Experience with estimating and supporting cost development for construction projects.
Work Environment
This position is based onsite at a power generation plant in Marshalltown, providing daily, in-person oversight of construction activities in an industrial environment. The role involves frequent presence in active construction areas, including exposure to heavy equipment, utilities, and power generation systems. Work is performed primarily outdoors or in plant facilities, requiring adherence to site-specific safety protocols and use of appropriate personal protective equipment. The schedule follows standard construction and plant operating hours, with potential for extended or irregular hours during critical project phases. The environment is collaborative and project-focused, with regular interaction among contractors, field personnel, engineers, and project stakeholders, offering a dynamic setting for professionals who enjoy hands-on, onsite project leadership.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $60.00/hr.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Cedar Rapids,IA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 25, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
