Project Manager - Commercial Foodservice Design Projects

American Recruiters•Philadelphia, PA

58d

About The Position

We have an outstanding opportunity for a Project Manager with an industry leader in designing, consulting, and constructing commercial food service spaces. Our projects range from restaurants and hotels to hospitals, universities, and government institutions. We specialize in creating innovative food service environments that balance design excellence with functionality. We seek an experienced Design Project Manager (Construction Design Project Specialist) to join our Philadelphia-based team. This individual will play a key role in managing projects' design, coordination, and construction phases from inception to completion.

Requirements

Proven experience in managing design and construction projects in the foodservice or commercial sectors
Deep understanding of construction processes, codes, and regulations as they apply to food service environments
Strong proficiency in reading, interpreting, detailed construction documents and drawings (including CAD and Revit)
Experience in troubleshooting design and construction issues to maintain project flow and resolve field challenges
Strong project management skills with the ability to prioritize, manage multiple timelines, and ensure successful project outcomes
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, particularly in working with clients, contractors, and design teams
Ability to manage complex projects from start to finish, balancing design needs with construction realities
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring all aspects of the project are completed to specifications and on time

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Design Project Management, Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, or equivalent experience
3-5 years of experience in Design Project Management, ideally within the commercial food service or construction industries
Strong background in foodservice design, including knowledge of kitchen layouts, workflow, equipment specifications, and compliance with local codes and standards
Familiarity with construction drawings, shop drawings, and fabrication drawings
Proficiency with Auto Quote (AQ360), AutoCAD, Revit, or other relevant design software
Strong Microsoft Office skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Responsibilities

Manage the end-to-end process of design and construction, ensuring that both phases align with the client’s needs, timeline, and budget.
Act as the primary point of contact between the client, design, and construction teams.
Oversee the creation and implementation of detailed design and construction documents, including layouts, schematics, equipment schedules, and specifications.
Ensure that designs meet aesthetic and operational goals while adhering to local building codes, safety regulations, and industry standards.
Work closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors to integrate food service equipment design into the more extensive building infrastructure (MEP, HVAC, fire suppression, etc.), ensuring design intent and quality control during construction.
Conduct on-site measurements and assessments to gather data and resolve site-specific challenges that may impact the design or installation.
Provide feedback to adjust the design to fit existing conditions and constraints.
Select and source foodservice equipment, ensuring specifications match project requirements.
Coordinate equipment procurement, delivery, and installation, ensuring installation is executed as designed and comply with project timelines.
Manage all construction-related design documentation, including construction drawings, floor plans, details, and shop drawings.
Communicate project updates clearly and accurately to internal teams and external stakeholders.
Identify and resolve issues that arise during design development or construction.
Troubleshoot technical design problems and provide solutions, maintaining project quality and integrity.
I assist in budget development and work to ensure that design choices stay within cost constraints.
I analyze change orders and unforeseen costs to keep the project on track financially.
Review, revise, and obtain client approval for conceptual designs, layouts, and budgets.
Ensure that final designs align with the approved plans and specifications before construction begins.
Maintain consistent communication with clients throughout the project, addressing concerns and ensuring their vision is realized.
Manage client expectations regarding design options, timelines, and costs.
Coordinate with various subcontractors, such as riggers, electricians, and HVAC technicians, to ensure that design plans are executed correctly.
Lead the review of work completed on-site to confirm it aligns with the approved designs.