About the job Residential Project Manager
Residential Project Manager
Location: Wilmette, IL (On-site, with partial hybrid potential)
Employment Type: Full-Time
Experience Level: Mid-Senior
Education: Bachelor's Degree
Industry: Construction
Function: Project Management
Compensation: $71,000 $130,000 annually (based on experience and qualifications)
Overview We are seeking a highly organized, client-facing Residential Project Manager to oversee high-end residential remodels, additions, and occasional new builds across Chicago's North Shore (Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Evanston, Highland Park). This office-first role (approximately 60% in-office / 40% in the field) is responsible for scheduling, trade coordination, client communication, and project closeout in partnership with the Field Superintendent.
The ideal candidate has deep experience with luxury residential projects, is comfortable working with high-net-worth homeowners, and delivers a white glove client experience while managing 10-15 active projects in various stages.
Key Responsibilities
Scope & Role Ownership
- Oversee project delivery: scheduling, trade coordination, client updates, and closeout
- Partner with Field Superintendent for field execution and quality control
- Balance office and field time, with majority office-based work
Bidding & Estimating
- Prepare detailed estimates and budgets for remodels, additions, and new builds
- Send bid requests and review proposals for accuracy and value
- Identify and resolve scope gaps before project kickoff
Project Scheduling & Coordination
- Maintain master schedules across 10-15 concurrent jobs
- Coordinate trades and ensure proper sequencing
- Monitor milestones and resolve conflicts proactively
Client Experience & Communication
- Serve as primary contact for homeowners
- Provide weekly updates and respond promptly to inquiries
- Anticipate client needs and manage expectations professionally
Project Oversight & Quality
- Review blueprints and ensure field execution matches design intent
- Conduct site visits to verify progress, safety, and readiness
- Manage punch lists and ensure clean project closeout
Software, Documentation & Financial Tracking
- Use Buildertrend or similar PM software (training provided)
- Maintain logs, photos, change orders, and key decisions
- Track budgets, allowances, and invoices
- Coordinate with design team to document changes and selections
Qualifications
- 35+ years of experience as a Project Manager in residential construction
- Experience with high-end remodels and additions
- Strong understanding of construction methods and ability to read blueprints
- Proven ability to manage 1015 projects simultaneously
- Excellent communication and client-facing skills
- Strong organizational and time management abilities
- Proficiency in Excel and construction/project management software
- Must reside within a 30-45 minute commute to Wilmette/North Shore
- NMLS license preferred (active or previously held)
Must-Have Requirements
- Residential construction PM experience (not commercial-only)
- Direct experience with luxury residential projects and high-net-worth clients
- Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects with quality and responsiveness
- Strong documentation habits and tech-savvy approach
- Professional communication and conflict management skills