Entry Level Assistant Project Manager Jobs in Colonia, NJ

The Assistant Project Manager (APM) supports the successful execution of electrical construction projects under the direction of a Senior Project Manager. This role assists with all project phases—from pre-construction planning and procurement through execution, financial tracking, and closeout—ensuring projects meet scope, schedule, cost, quality, and safety objectives. The APM coordinates with clients, internal teams, field leadership, subcontractors, vendors, and engineers to manage schedules, documentation, RFIs, submittals, change orders, and billing. The position also supports budgeting, cost forecasting, safety compliance, and constructability reviews, requiring strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Under the direction and training of a Senior Project Manager, the Assistant Project Manager is responsible for overseeing all phases of electrical construction projects—from pre-construction planning and budgeting through closeout—to ensure successful execution that meets scope, schedule, cost, and quality objectives. This role requires proactive communication with clients, utility providers, vendors, and internal teams to coordinate administrative, technical, and field operations in a structured and repeatable process.

1. Project Planning & Execution

• Assist in purchasing major material and equipment packages, including obtaining quotes and negotiating with vendors.

• Provide engineering support and layout, ensuring accurate drawings, coordination, and constructibility.

• Develop, maintain, and monitor the project schedule, updating progress and identifying risks or delays.

• Complete Monthly Cost-to-Complete analyses, forecasting remaining labor, materials, and overall project financial performance.

2. Project Coordination/Financial Management

• Serve as the main point of contact for customers, fostering strong relationships and ensuring satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.

• Coordinate with internal teams, subcontractors, vendors, engineers, and field leadership to ensure smooth project delivery.

• Submit and process Requests for Information (RFIs) to clarify scope, resolve discrepancies, and support field operations.

• Review and process submittals for accuracy, compliance, and timely approval.

• Prepare, price and negotiate change orders, ensuring proper documentation and cost recovery.

• Manage monthly AIA billing, including schedules of values, progress billing, and supporting documentation.

3. Safety & Compliance

• Act as the Safety Administrator for assigned projects, supporting onsite safety requirements, documentation, and compliance.

• Partner with field leadership to reinforce safety standards and address any onsite issues promptly.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of experience in construction or electrical contracting

• Strong understanding of project scheduling, cost control and documentation

• Experience with RFIs, submittals, change orders and AIA billing processes

• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications • Proficiency in project management software, Microsoft Office, and basic engineering tools.

Core Competencies

• Communication – Communicates effectively with customers, field teams, GCs, vendors, and internal stakeholders. Maintains strong relationships and ensures clarity in all project correspondence.

• Problem Solving & Decision Making – Identifies issues proactively, evaluates alternatives, and makes timely, sound decisions to keep projects on track.

• Attention to Detail - Ensures accuracy in RFIs, submittals, billing, reporting, and engineering layouts.

• Adaptability & Time Management- Manages multiple tasks, shifting priorities, and fast-paced project demands with efficiency and professionalism.

• Negotiation and Conflict Resolution – Effectively negotiates with vendors, customers, and subcontractors; resolves field, schedule or scope conflicts constructively.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Office-based with frequent interaction with field personnel, vendors, and customers.

• Occasional site visits as needed to support project execution and safety oversight.

• Ability to visit active construction sites, which may require navigating uneven surfaces, climbing stairs or ladders, and standing for long periods.

• Must be able to lift, carry, push, or pull materials and equipment up to 25 lbs. on occasion.

• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, high-visibility vests, gloves, and steel-toe boots, during site visits.

• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including heat, cold, and inclement weather, when present on job sites.