Construction Manager
University Housing and Dining seeks candidates for the position of Construction Manager to be responsible for overseeing complex, sometimes multi-phased construction projects that significantly impact institutional operations. This role involves managing all aspects of project delivery—from planning and design through execution and close-out—while ensuring adherence to budget, schedule, and quality standards. The manager coordinates with internal teams, external consultants, and contractors, provides leadership and supervision, and ensures compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines. Strong communication, problem-solving, and project management skills are essential, along with experience in construction management, budgeting, scheduling, working on a team with a variety of backgrounds, and in team-oriented environments.
Specific Job Duties & Tasks
Manage Large-Scale, Multi-Phased Projects
Oversee complex capital projects with multiple contracts and phases, ensuring minimal disruption to campus operations.Lead Design Management
Assist with oversight of the design process, ensuring compliance with codes, standards, and project scope; recommend consultants and resolve design conflicts.Coordinate Stakeholder Input
Engage internal teams (IT, safety, utilities, accessibility) and external consultants to align project goals with institutional needs.Communicate Effectively
Provide clear, timely updates to project teams and administration; maintain accurate records in project management systems.Develop and Manage Budgets
Create and monitor project budgets, review cost estimates, and ensure alignment of scope and funding.Control Project Schedules
Establish, monitor, and update schedules to meet completion targets; advise on constructability during design phases.Ensure Financial Accountability
Analyze and report financial data, monitor contracts, and manage procurement of supplies and equipment.Maintain Compliance and Safety Standards
Ensure adherence to safety guidelines, regulatory requirements, and university policies throughout all project phases.Resolve Issues and Disputes
Identify and address design errors, omissions, and conflicts; recommend solutions to maintain timelines and protect university interests.Utilize Project Management Tools
Maintain accurate project data and apply best practices for cost estimation, scheduling, and reporting.
For a detailed job description, please email Ruth Appleton at ruth-appleton@uiowa.edu.
About the Division of Student Life
The Division of Student Life is comprised of staff that embrace new ideas and thoughts, works together to keep our students safe, and provides them with life-changing experiences. The Division of Student Life includes 15 departments that span from Recreation Services to the Office of Leadership, Service and Civic Engagement and everything in between. We believe in working together as one team to achieve our mission: fostering student success by creating and promoting educationally purposeful services and activities within and beyond the classroom.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Professional experience (typically 3-5 years) in project management of projects during programming, schematic design, design development and/or construction document phases.
Excellent communication (written and verbal), problem-solving skills and ability to multitask at a high level.
Proficient in computer software applications.
Familiarity with construction site safety guidelines.
Professional experience working effectively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives.
Working knowledge of project documents, estimates, and schedules.
Desirable Qualifications
Extensive experience in a customer focused, team-oriented environment.
Professional experience (typically 3-5 years) in construction management or construction supervision on a university campus.
Extensive experience with project management software such as BlueBeam, Microsoft Projects, etc.
Experience managing communal living or residential capital improvement projects.
Experience with commissioning processes and/or state building inspection procedures.
Understanding of the total-cost-ownership approach to project decision making and other effective practices supporting facilities stewardship.
Employment experience working in the skilled trades.
Experience at a large institution or corporation.
Experience working at a government institution.
Application Details
To be considered, applicants must upload a resume and cover letter and mark them as a “Relevant File” to the submission.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification.
Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. Please note that this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship in the United States. For questions or additional information, please contact Ruth Appleton at ruth-appleton@uiowa.edu.
Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.
Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.
Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.
Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.
Equal opportunity employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.
