Automation Project Manager Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The Project Manager oversees and optimizes the day-to-day operations of our project teams, with specialized responsibility for the execution of access control, gate automation, CCTV/camera surveillance, audio-visual, and keyless entry projects within the broader construction environment. This role coordinates all aspects of project management while ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, quality standards, and safety regulations. The role demands solid technical knowledge of access control and low-voltage systems, strong communication skills, and the organizational multi-tasking ability to manage multiple simultaneous projects. The Project Manager is accountable for driving client satisfaction by ensuring that all projects are executed in accordance with contract documents and the company's high quality standards, and by maintaining strong professional relationships with clients, vendors, partners, and fellow employees. This role is located at our Corporate Headquarters in Nashville, TN and is an in-office role.

Essential Functions:

• Lead overall construction and systems-installation performance through project managers and project teams.
• Oversee and manage access control and security systems projects from inception to completion.
• Establish, enforce, and maintain operational procedures and policies to ensure all project objectives are met, including scheduling, budget, and quality control.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope, budget, timeline, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
• Establish, update, and communicate the Master Project Schedule and manage its implementation.
• Monitor project progress, ensure adherence to schedule and budget, and implement proactive measures to mitigate delays and ensure milestones are met.
• Establish and maintain processes for managing scope during the project lifecycle, setting quality and performance standards and assessing risks.
• Coordinate the integration of gate automation, access control, CCTV, audio-visual, and keyless entry installations with concurrent construction activities to avoid sequencing conflicts.
• Visit each jobsite with the Sales Representative prior to installation to ensure complete understanding of project scope and specifications.
• Review and interpret construction plans, blueprints, and specifications, coordinating design intent with electrical, low-voltage, and IT trades.
• Oversee installation of devices including camera and closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems, access control, audio-visual, and keyless entry solutions.
• Direct configuration of keyless entry and electronic locking solutions—including mobile credentials, fobs, smart locks, mag locks, electric strikes, and request-to-exit devices.
• Manage system integration so that access control, video surveillance, gate automation, and keyless entry operate as a unified platform tied into building management and alarm systems.
• Troubleshoot and repair building automation system panels, including communications equipment, printed circuit boards, power supplies, electrical/electronic controls, sensors, and transducers.
• Produce quality technical documentation describing the conceptual and quantitative facets of system deployment, intended for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Coordinate factory startups, owner training, as-built documentation, warranty handoff, and punch-list resolution for all security systems.
• Work as both an individual contributor and as part of the Access Control team to accomplish project goals.
• Ensure access control systems—card readers, keypads, intercoms, telephone entry, and biometric devices—are installed, configured, and tested to specification.
• Maintain technical knowledge of evolving access control, video, and credentialing technologies and recommend solutions that meet client security and operational needs.
• Perform job scheduling utilizing time management skills to effectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Meet project completion schedules while ensuring labor and material costs are within budget.
• Ensure pertinent documentation and paperwork are accurate and complete.
• Manage project documentation, including contracts, change orders, permits, and other pertinent records.
• Coordinate with the Sales Representative to track job projects, complete projects by the quoted deadline, and update stakeholders as necessary.
• Develop a high-performance team through supervision, training, coaching, and mentoring; ensure regular feedback and timely completion of employee performance appraisals.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and other professionals to ensure project success.
• In conjunction with Human Resources, establish and deliver a comprehensive training program based on project needs and statutory or local regulations, including manufacturer certifications for gate, access control, CCTV, and keyless entry equipment.
• Facilitate effective communication and coordination among project stakeholders to ensure alignment of objectives and priorities.
• Provide excellent customer service and maintain strong professional relationships with clients, vendors, partners, and fellow employees.
• Maintain regular communication, providing updates on project status, progress, and milestones to the management team and stakeholders.
• Build and nurture positive client relationships, addressing needs, concerns, and expectations proactively and professionally.
• Identify opportunities to add value and exceed client expectations, fostering long-term partnerships and repeat business.
• Implement and enforce safety protocols and regulations in accordance with company and customer standards.
• Maintain a safe work environment and monitor compliance with building and safety codes.
• Ensure all construction and systems activities comply with relevant building codes, safety regulations, and quality standards, conducting regular inspections and assessments.
• Implement quality control measures and best practices to maintain high standards of workmanship across construction, access control, surveillance, and keyless entry deliverables.
• Address quality or safety issues promptly, working with project teams to implement corrective actions and prevent recurrence.
• Develop and manage project budgets, track expenses, and forecast financial performance across multiple projects.
• Review project expenditures, change orders, and subcontractor invoices in accordance with established budgetary guidelines.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements while maintaining quality and client satisfaction.
• Maintain company vehicle in good working order and condition, including vehicle cleanliness standards.
• Maintain regular attendance at work.
• Perform other job-related tasks as assigned by management

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in engineering or a construction-related field preferred; High School diploma, GED, or equivalent considered with equivalent experience
• 5+ years of experience in an operations role within the construction industry, with a minimum of 2 years of direct supervisory experience
• Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Project Management (CPM), or other project management certification preferred
• Expert knowledge of low-voltage electrical systems
• Demonstrated experience managing access control systems, CCTV/camera surveillance, audio-visual, keyless entry, gates, and gate automation—including installation, integration, programming, and commissioning
• Strong knowledge of project scheduling and excellent time management skills to effectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, construction plans, and technical drawings
• Strong mechanical knowledge and aptitude
• Experience in project coordination and managing multiple stakeholders
• Strong leadership skills to effectively manage a team of contractors and subcontractors
• Knowledge of computers and the following software: MS Office, ShareFile, and BlueWave
• Must be knowledgeable of OSHA requirements and strong in construction quality assurance
• Ability to manage and control budgets, change orders, and inventory
• History of completing large, complex commercial projects on time and within budget
• Ability to perform physical work outdoors year-round in a variety of weather elements
• Valid Driver's License with a clean driving record
• As a condition of employment, the company will conduct a background check and drug screen
• Must reside within the Nashville, TN region and have the ability to work from the Nashville Office five days per week

GUARDIAN ACCESS SOLUTIONS WILL NOT SPONSOR APPLICANTS FOR WORK VISAS FOR THIS ROLE.

This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of duties or standards of the position. Additional tasks may be assigned and the scope of the job may change as necessitated by business demands. Applicants are advised that false statements or omission of information on any application materials may be grounds for non-selection, withdrawal of an offer of employment, or dismissal after being employed. Guardian Access Solutions provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.