Subcontract Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

There’s never been a better time to join Stratus! As the market leader in brand implementation and maintenance, we transform how national brands connect with their customers. From exterior signage & interior branding to site refresh & remodel, from energy & lighting to repair & maintenance solutions, we deliver ideal solutions to meet all our client's branding needs.

From our locations across the country, to our corporate headquarters in Mentor, Ohio, every employee is a stakeholder in Stratus’ success. This environment offers endless career opportunities for individuals with a commitment to customer service, focus on execution and bias for action.

Summary

The Program Manager leads a variety of construction projects, working with minimal oversight and embracing change and process improvements. This role requires a customer-focused, budget-conscious professional with strong communication skills and the ability to deliver project scope on schedule and within budget. The Program Manager oversees the full project lifecycle—from planning and scheduling through execution, vendor negotiations, and final close-out—ensuring adherence to company policies and quality standards.

Project Planning & Execution:

• Develop and manage multiple project schedules, resources, and budgets to meet agreed-upon timelines and financial targets.
• Coordinate with field superintendents to create accurate project timelines and handle on-site issues as they arise.
• Utilize project management software to track job costs, materials, and labor, ensuring data is up-to-date and accessible.

Documentation & Billing:

• Prepare and manage documentation related to purchase orders, change orders, and close-out packages.
• Ensure timely, accurate project close-outs and submit all required documents to customers promptly.

Stakeholder Communication & Relationship Management:

• Maintain consistent, professional communication with customers, internal teams, subcontractors, vendors, and suppliers.
• Build and maintain strong customer relationships, conducting quarterly customer meetings for feedback and lessons learned.
• Provide weekly project status updates to the Director and VP of Construction, including financials, schedule, risks, and opportunities.

Contractor & Vendor Coordination:

• Read and interpret construction drawings and specifications, ensuring project compliance with design intent and standards.
• Negotiate contracts and pricing with subcontractors and suppliers to achieve cost-effective project solutions.
• Oversee superintendents and subcontractors, ensuring proper scheduling, staffing, and task completion across multiple, simultaneous projects.

Quality & Compliance:

• Adhere to company policies and procedures, ensuring worker safety, compliance with regulations, and maintenance of quality standards.
• Identify areas for process improvement and implement changes to enhance project efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with team members to address cost-effective solutions and continually improve project delivery processes.
• Maintain open communication with superintendents regarding project updates, resource needs, and potential issues, ensuring timely resolutions.
• Ensure accurate and complete project documentation is delivered to customers, including purchase orders, change orders, and close-out materials.

Skills & Competencies:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management tracking software.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities, capable of managing complex schedules and budgets simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with proven experience interfacing with customers, project management, sales, finance/accounting, and MIS teams.
• Ability to solve problems creatively, think strategically, and adapt to changing conditions.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Business, or a related field; or equivalent education and/or experience.
• 3-5 years of project management experience with a general contractor, ideally in retail construction remodeling or tenant improvement projects.
• Familiarity with construction processes, industry standards, and best practices preferred.

Year 1 Goals:

• Within 90 days: Attain a thorough understanding and proficiency in company systems, policies, and procedures.
• Within the first year: Demonstrate the ability to independently manage projects, ensuring timely completion and budget adherence.

Working Conditions:

• Typical work hours are Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm; must be available to respond to calls or emails before/after typical hours and on weekends as needed (potentially 50+ hour weeks).
• Willingness to travel up to 25% for site visits, client meetings, or vendor negotiations.

Travel Requirements

This position is required to travel as an essential function of this role due to the need for in-person interaction with customers, field partners, and/or business stakeholders. Travel may include local, regional, or national destinations and may be conducted via automobile, air, or other modes of transportation. All travel must be pre-approved in accordance with company policy and conducted in compliance with applicable safety and expense guidelines.

Why Work With Us

• Supportive & Friendly Culture
• Manage national accounts for Fortune 500 companies
• Medical, Dental, Vision coverage options
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
• Company paid Life Insurance
• 401k with Employer Contribution
• Company paid Short/Long Term Disability
• Generous Paid Time Off program + Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Career Mapping
• Additional perks including Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Program, Identity Theft Protection, Critical Illness Plans, Commuter Benefits and various employee discount offerings from our Vendors

Pay Range

$80,000 - $95,000 annually - A pay range listed reflects the potential pay for this role. The pay will depend on various factors, such as responsibilities of the position, job duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills. Not all positions posted will have a pay range listed.

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