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Job Summary

The Construction

Project Manager is responsible for managing the successful execution of

assigned new restaurant openings, remodels, relocations, and acquisition

conversion projects from pre-construction through turnover to Operations. The

role is accountable for delivering projects safely, on schedule, within budget,

and in accordance with approved design standards, while serving as the primary

point of coordination between internal stakeholders, landlords, consultants,

contractors, and vendors.

Specific Responsibilities

Project

Planning & Pre-construction

• Provide turnkey project management for assigned new store, remodel, relocation and acquisition conversion projects in accordance with the Department's standard store development process.
• Coordinate initial site surveys of potential sites and prepare the preliminary (I) Budget based on available information and project assumptions.
• Coordinate with the Sr. Design Manager and Operations representatives as store layouts are developed and approved.

Design

Coordination & Permitting

• Coordinate with the Sr. Design Manager and other consultants throughout the development of construction drawings, ensuring landlord approvals are obtained as required.
• Facilitate permit applications and approvals with the Sr. Design Manager, consultants and the Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs).
• Coordinate finalization of Issued for Construction (IFC) drawings with the Sr. Design Manager and consultants for distribution to the selected contractor.

Procurement

& Contract Administration

• Establish invited bidder lists; prepare and distribute bid packages; respond to bidder Requests for Information (RFIs); and coordinate the bid closing process.
• Review bid submissions and recommend contractor selection to the Director, Construction.
• Coordinate preparation and issuance of construction contracts with the Director, Construction.
• Coordinate with the Sr. Design Manager and equipment vendors to verify equipment requirements, coordinate equipment orders, and issue related purchase orders.
• Prepare the Construction (C) Budget based on executed contracts and approved purchase orders.
• Administer project contracts, purchase orders, invoicing, and related construction documentation throughout the project lifecycle.

Construction

Execution

• Coordinate construction activities with contractors, landlords, consultants and vendors from project commencement through completion.
• Monitor construction progress to ensure projects are completed in accordance with approved schedules, quality standards and specifications, including conducting site inspections as required.
• Coordinate all required inspections throughout the construction process and work with contractors and AHJs to obtain Certificates of Occupancy and other required approvals.
• Coordinate resolution of construction-related issues with contractors, consultants and internal stakeholders, escalating significant issues to the Director, Construction, as appropriate.

Safety

• Promote safe construction practices throughout assigned projects.
• Monitor contractor compliance with applicable safety regulations, including OSHA requirements.
• Report and escalate safety incidents or concerns in accordance with Company policies.

Project

Close-Out & Turnover

• Coordinate final inspections and project close-out activities, including deficiency resolution, warranty documentation and turnover to Operations.
• Verify that all project documentation, including as-built drawings, warranties and close-out records, is complete and properly maintained.
• Complete final project cost reconciliation and close project documentation in accordance with Company standards.

Qualifications     

Education

• Bachelor's degree preferred.

Experience

• Minimum five (5) years in commercial construction, engineering, or a related field.      
• General commercial construction background, preferably with restaurant construction experience in the United States.   
• Experience managing multi-unit retail construction projects preferred.

Knowledge &

Technical Skills

• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems
• Knowledge of building codes, permitting requirements and landlord coordination
• Knowledge of commercial kitchen equipment
• Proficiency in project scheduling, budgeting and Microsoft Excel

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY 

Sarku Japan strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, veteran status, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

Founded in 1987, Sarku Japan began with four entrepreneurs who saw an opportunity to introduce Japanese teppanyaki cooking to the United States. Starting with a single location in the Liberty Tree Mall in Boston, Massachusetts, they built the company through hard work, shared responsibility, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
From the beginning, the vision was simple: serve fresh, made-to-order meals cooked directly in front of customers while delivering an experience that stood apart from traditional food court dining. Through energy, showmanship, and quality, Sarku Japan quickly built a loyal customer following.
The early years required determination, long hours, and an unwavering belief in the brand. As the company grew throughout the Northeast, Florida, Texas, and eventually across the country, the founders stayed committed to the philosophy of Kaizen — continuous improvement. That mindset continues to shape how we operate today, from refining recipes and operations to investing in our people and guest experience.
Today, Sarku Japan has grown into a nationally recognized brand with locations across the United States, including shopping centers, street-front restaurants, and military bases. While we have grown significantly since 1987, our commitment to quality, teamwork, innovation, and growth remains at the center of everything we do.