Special Systems Project Manager

Description
Overall Responsibility
The Special System Project Manager is responsible for managing the successful execution of low-voltage system design projects, including Telecom, Security, IT, and AV systems. This mid-level management position ensures that all assigned projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget. The role includes leadership over project staff, coordination with engineering design leads, and direct engagement with clients and stakeholders. While this role does not require deep technical expertise, it does require a strong understanding of engineering environments and a demonstrated ability to grow in special systems technology proficiency.
Essential Functions – Project Management

• Leads project planning and execution from initiation through closeout, maintaining accountability for scope, schedule, staffing, and budget.
• Develops and maintains project schedules using MS Project, Primavera P6, or equivalent tools; manages milestone tracking and schedule performance.
• Oversees internal and external project teams, managing resource allocation, staffing plans, and daily priorities to ensure delivery consistency.
• Coordinates with assigned Special Systems Design Leads to maintain ensure technical quality and deliver plans and designs on time.
• Builds and maintains strong working relationships with client and stakeholders to ensure alignment on objectives, progress, and deliverables.
• Leads and participates in project meetings including kickoffs, internal reviews, design coordination, and client-facing status updates.
• Tracks and reports on key project metrics, including percent complete, budget status, schedule variance, and risk items.
• Supports scope development, change control, and fee adjustment efforts in collaboration with SS managers and clients.
• Identifies project risks and provides mitigation planning with the Director of Special Systems Project Delivery.
• Supports add services proposal development and project startup activities
• Participates in all project phases including planning, design, bidding, and construction administration.
• Ensures all project deliverables and processes adhere to Arora's quality standards, documentation protocols, and project controls framework.

Secondary Functions

• Provides technical leadership and guidance to project teams in close coordination with Design Leads.
• Participates in QA/QC reviews, milestone checkpoints, and constructability coordination efforts.
• Reviews and comments on technical deliverables, including drawings, specifications, and cost estimates.
• Mentors and supports the professional development of junior staff, including project engineers and designers.
• Communicates technical concepts, issues, and solutions effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Qualifications
Needed Skills

• Strong working knowledge of project management methodologies, tools, and best practices.
• Foundational understanding of low-voltage systems, including structured cabling, access control, video surveillance, and telecommunications, with the ability to grow in technical expertise.
• Proficiency in scheduling and project tracking tools such as MS Project, Primavera P6, or equivalent.
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey technical and non-technical information clearly.
• Effective in coordinating with technical design teams, engineers, and CAD/BIM staff.
• Capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while maintaining strong team coordination.
• Knowledge of design-to-completion engineering processes and principles.
• Familiarity with engineering design packages and production workflows (Project Definition, Conceptual Design, Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Bid Support, Construction Administration).
• Maintains discretion and handles sensitive information professionally.
• Proven ability to build and sustain productive relationships with employees, clients, and vendors.

Education/Experience Minimum

• Bachelor's degree in Project Management, Construction Management, Architecture, Computer Science, Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in project management, preferably in engineering, transportation, infrastructure industries.
• PMP Certification preferred.
• Experience working with technical or engineering design teams.
• Proficiency with project planning and scheduling tools such as MS Project or Primavera required.
• Familiarity with aviation or transportation industry projects preferred.