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Project Executive Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Pernix Group, Inc.

Project Executive

Lombard, IL · On-site

Project Executive (International Construction | Data Centers & Infrastructure) Pernix International The Opportunity Pernix International (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=1) is seeking a world-class ...

Barry Wehmiller Group

Project Executive

Chicago, IL · On-site

When you join Design Group as a Project Executive, you are joining a team that will challenge you and position you for growth. In this role, you will work with a team of industry experts to help the ...

Gilbane Building Company

Project Executive

Chicago, IL · On-site

Gilbane is seeking a Project Executive to lead a single large project team or multiple small project teams, guiding the overall direction, completion, and financial outcome of the project(s). This ...

Gilbane Building Company

Project Executive

Joliet, IL · On-site

Gilbane is seeking a Project Executive to lead a single large project team or multiple small project teams, guiding the overall direction, completion, and financial outcome of the project(s). This ...

Gilbane, Inc.

Project Executive

Chicago, IL

Gilbane is seeking a Project Executive to lead a single large project team or multiple small project teams, guiding the overall direction, completion, and financial outcome of the project(s). This ...

Gilbane Building Company

Project Executive

Chicago, IL · On-site

Gilbane is seeking a Project Executive to lead a single large project team or multiple small project teams, guiding the overall direction, completion, and financial outcome of the project(s). This ...

Paper Converting Machine

Project Executive

Chicago, IL · On-site

When you join Design Group as a Project Executive, you are joining a team that will challenge you and position you for growth. In this role, you will work with a team of industry experts to help the ...

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Project Executive information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$60.8K

$173K

$248.8K

How much do project executive jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for project executive in Chicago, IL is $172,973.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $145,800.00 and $202,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a project executive?

A project executive is the head of a company’s project management team, responsible for implementing strategic planning and monitoring the progress of ongoing projects. As a project executive, your job duties are to evaluate staff, assess project progress against timelines and budget considerations, prepare regular reports for senior management to inform staffing decisions and project priorities, and check in with clients regarding project specifications and their expectations. To pursue a career as a project executive, you need 10 to 15 years of experience in project management and leadership roles.

How does a project executive typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure project success?

A Project Executive plays a pivotal role in facilitating collaboration among various departments such as finance, operations, and technical teams. They are responsible for aligning project goals with organizational objectives, communicating expectations clearly, and resolving interdepartmental issues that may arise. Regular meetings, status updates, and transparent communication channels are key practices used to keep everyone on track and engaged. By fostering a cooperative environment, Project Executives ensure that all stakeholders are informed and invested in the project's success.

How much do project executives get paid?

Project executives typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $80,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often oversee project teams, manage budgets, and use project management tools like MS Project or Primavera. Salaries can vary based on company size and project complexity.

Is a project executive higher than a project manager?

A project executive is typically a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing multiple projects or the entire project portfolio, while a project manager handles the planning and execution of individual projects. In most organizations, the project executive holds a higher position than the project manager and focuses on strategic oversight and decision-making. The specific hierarchy can vary depending on the company's structure and size.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a project executive?

To thrive as a Project Executive, you need strong leadership, project management experience, and a relevant degree such as in business or engineering. Familiarity with project management tools like MS Project, PMP certification, and enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems is common. Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills help build client relationships and guide cross-functional teams. These skills ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to stakeholder satisfaction, driving organizational success.

What is the difference between Project Executive vs Project Manager?

AspectProject ExecutiveProject Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in business, management, or related field; often some certifications like PMP are preferredRequires a bachelor's degree in project management, business, or related field; PMP certification common
Work EnvironmentStrategic oversight, executive meetings, high-level decision makingDay-to-day project planning, team coordination, and execution
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, construction, and large-scale projects for strategic leadershipCommon across industries for managing specific projects

The Project Executive focuses on strategic oversight and high-level decision making, while the Project Manager handles daily project operations and team management. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and responsibilities within project execution.

What is the role of a project executive?

A project executive is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and completion of projects, ensuring they meet organizational goals, budgets, and deadlines. They coordinate with stakeholders, manage project teams, and often use project management tools to monitor progress and address issues. Strong leadership, communication, and strategic thinking are essential skills for this role.
More about Project Executive jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Project jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Project jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Project Executive jobs in Chicago, IL? For Project Executive jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Project Executive jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Project Executive jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Project Executive jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Project Executive job openings:
Project Executive jobs near you
Infographic showing various Project Executive job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $172,973 per year, or $83.2 per hour.

Project Executive

Pernix Group, Inc.

Lombard, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Project Executive
(International Construction | Data Centers & Infrastructure)
Pernix International
The Opportunity
Pernix International (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=1) is seeking a world-class Project Executive to lead the delivery of complex, high-value construction programs across international markets, with a focus on mission-critical data centers and large-scale infrastructure.
This is not a traditional project role. This is a strategic leadership position for a builder-operator-someone who can seamlessly move between boardroom strategy and field execution, drive performance across regions, and elevate both people and projects.
You will play a critical role in shaping how Pernix executes globally, influencing operational excellence, client partnerships, and long-term growth.
What You'll Own
Global Project Leadership
•Provide executive oversight across multiple concurrent projects and programs spanning diverse geographies.
•Ensure delivery excellence across schedule, budget, safety, and quality-without compromise.
•Act as the connective tissue between corporate strategy and on-the-ground execution.
International Execution
•Lead projects across complex international environments, navigating regulatory frameworks, cultural nuances, and logistical challenges.
•Establish scalable operating models that perform consistently across regions.
Mission-Critical Expertise
•Oversee delivery of data centers and critical infrastructure (power, utilities, civil, transportation).
•Ensure alignment with high-availability, uptime, and technical performance standards expected in mission-critical environments.
Client Leadership
•Serve as the executive face of Pernix to key clients and stakeholders.
•Build long-term partnerships rooted in trust, delivery, and strategic value-not just project completion.
Financial Performance
•Own full P&L performance across projects and programs.
•Drive disciplined execution of budgets, forecasts, cost controls, and margin optimization.
Strategic Growth & Market Expansion
•Partner with leadership on pursuits, business development, and international expansion strategy.
•Contribute to winning work in emerging and high-growth markets, particularly in infrastructure and data centers.
Risk & Governance
•Proactively identify and mitigate operational, financial, legal, and safety risks.
•Ensure adherence to global standards, local regulations, and Pernix governance frameworks.
Leadership & Culture
•Mentor and elevate senior project managers and regional leaders.
•Build high-performing, accountable teams across multinational environments.
•Champion a culture of ownership, execution, and continuous improvement.
What You Bring
•15+ years of progressive construction experience, with 5-7+ years in senior leadership roles.
•Proven success delivering large-scale international construction projects.
•Deep experience in data centers, mission-critical environments, and/or major infrastructure programs.
•Ability to operate as a true generalist leader across project types, delivery models, and geographies.
•Strong command of delivery methods (Design-Build, EPC, CMAR).
•Demonstrated success managing large P&Ls and complex financial structures.
•Exceptional ability to influence, align, and lead senior stakeholders and global teams.
•Willingness and ability to travel internationally as required.
What Sets You Apart
•Experience working in emerging markets or highly complex regulatory environments.
•Strong understanding of mission-critical systems and uptime-driven delivery.
•Multilingual capabilities and cross-cultural fluency.
•Advanced expertise in contract negotiation, claims management, and commercial strategy.
Leadership Profile
You are:
•A strategic thinker who sees around corners
•A global operator who adapts quickly across environments
•A decisive leader who drives outcomes
•A trusted partner to clients and executives
•A builder of people, not just projects
Location & Travel
This role can be based in a corporate or regional hub, with frequent international travel required. You must be comfortable operating across time zones, cultures, and fast-moving project environments.
Compensation
Pernix offers a competitive executive compensation package, including:
•Base salary
•Performance-based bonus
•Long-term incentives
•Comprehensive benefits
Why Pernix
At Pernix International (chatgpt://generic-entity?number=2), you won't just deliver projects-you'll help define how global construction is executed at scale.
This is an opportunity to step into a role with:
•True international impact
•High visibility and influence
•Complex, career-defining projects
EEOC Disclaimer:Pernix Group is an equal opportunity employer in that our policy, in accordance with Federal and State laws, prohibits employment discrimination solely on the basis of a person's race, color, creed, sexual orientation, sex, marital status, or disability except where a reasonable, bona fide occupational qualification exists.

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