Assistant Project Manager

An Assistant Project Manager at JRM is responsible for accurately estimating costs associated with project changes, preparing and presenting Change Order proposals, conducting detailed take-offs, negotiating subcontractor pricing, and monitoring project budgets. Their role is pivotal in ensuring that financial aspects of the project remain aligned with the approved estimates while adapting to any changes in scope.

JRM seeks candidates for the Assistant Project Manager position who have prior experience in the construction industry and understand construction project lifecycles. Essential skills include excellent time management, adept organizational skills, and proficiency in reading commercial construction plans. Familiarity with software such as Microsoft Office, Timberline, and On-Screen Takeoff is preferred to help streamline project processes.

The Assistant Project Manager plays a crucial role in the change order process by preparing accurate Change Orders based on Work Orders and project drawings. They verify compliance with contracted unit pricing, labor rates, and associated fees while also negotiating pricing with subcontractors to ensure that changes are budget-friendly and documented properly.

Key skills essential for an Assistant Project Manager at JRM include strong attention to detail, the ability to multitask effectively, and a solid foundation in financial obligations management. Being resourceful, self-motivated, and capable of working under pressure to meet deadlines is vital for success in this fast-paced environment.

The work culture at JRM is characterized by a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and authentic teamwork. As an Assistant Project Manager, you'll find an environment that encourages collaboration, personal growth, and the passion for excellence. JRM values their employees and focuses on creating a supportive framework for everyone to thrive.

In answering this question, highlight your previous roles within construction, detailing specific projects you've managed, or how you've contributed to the change order process. It’s important to connect your skills, such as cost estimation and budget tracking, to what JRM is specifically looking for.

Discuss your negotiation strategies, emphasizing communication. Explain how you'd gather data, perhaps seek clarification from the subcontractor, and suggest alternative solutions to ensure that the project budget isn’t negatively impacted.

Outline the steps you take from reviewing changes in project scope, through taking accurate measurements, to submitting detailed proposals for approval. This shows your understanding of the importance of accuracy and compliance in the Change Order process.

Describe your methods for tracking project budgets and your way of forecasting potential changes. Sharing instances where you've successfully kept a project within its financial limits will demonstrate your capabilities effectively.

Mention any relevant software you’ve used, such as Microsoft Office, Timberline, or other project management tools. Highlight how proficient you are at leveraging technology to enhance accuracy and efficiency in your work.

Discuss your strategies for prioritization, such as assessing deadlines and project impact. Explain your approach to effective time management, ensuring you meet all project deadlines without compromising quality.

Share a specific example that illustrates your problem-solving skills. Focus on the steps you took to resolve the issue and what the outcome was, particularly in how it benefited the project or team.

Describe how you maintain detailed documentation of Change Orders and the systems or software you’ve used to keep track of both approved and pending items. This shows your organizational skills and attention to detail.

Share your techniques for staying calm and focused during high-pressure situations. Mention any productivity tools or methods, such as breaking tasks into smaller parts, that help you manage stress effectively.

Reflect on what attracted you to JRM, such as its reputation in the industry, its commitment to inclusivity, or the diverse projects it undertakes. Connecting your personal and professional values with the company's culture will resonate well.