Director, Project Management

Title: Director, Project Management

Employee Classification: Director Project Management

Campus: University of North Texas - System Administration

Division: SYS-Sys Facilities Plan & Constr

SubDivision-Department: SYS-Sys Fac Construction-Gen

Department: SYS-SIPC Staff Capital Project-951000

Job Location: Denton

Salary: Commensurate with Experience

FTE: 1.000000

Retirement Eligibility: TRS Eligible

About Us - Values Overview

Welcome to the University of North Texas System. The UNT System includes the University of North Texas in Denton and Frisco, the University of North Texas at Dallas and UNT Dallas College of Law, and the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth. We are the only university system based exclusively in the robust Dallas-Fort Worth region. We are growing with the North Texas region, employing more than 14,000 employees, educating a record 49,000+ students across our system, and awarding nearly 12,000 degrees each year.

We are one team comprised of individuals who are committed to excellence, curiosity and innovation. We are transforming lives and creating economic opportunity through education. We champion a people-first values-based culture where We Care about each other and those we serve. We believe that we are Better Together because we foster an inclusive environment of respect, belonging, and access for all. We demonstrate Courageous Integrity through setting exceptional standards and acting in the best interest of our communities. We are encouraged to Be Curious about opportunities for learning, creating, discovering, and innovating, and are encouraged to learn from failure. Show Your Fire by joining our team and exhibiting your passion and pride in your work as part of our UNT System team.

Learn more about the UNT System and how we live our values at www.UNTSystem.edu.

Department Summary

The Office of Strategic Infrastructure, Planning, and Construction (SIPC) at the University of North Texas System (UNTS) seeks a Director of Project Management to lead the execution of the Capital Improvements Plan across all UNTS campuses.

Position Overview

Reporting to the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Strategic Infrastructure, this role provides strategic leadership for all project management activities, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

This position acts as a liaison between senior UNTS leadership, campus stakeholders, and external partners, fostering collaboration and accountability throughout the project lifecycle. Responsibilities include overseeing project planning, execution, and closeout while guiding project management staff and operational oversight of construction management activities.

The ideal candidate demonstrates excellence in leadership, innovation, and process improvement, playing a pivotal role in shaping the system's physical and operational infrastructure to support education, research, and service.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Architectural Engineering, Interior Design, or closely related field; and ten years' of experience in facilities design, construction and maintenance, or any equivalent combination of experience, education or training.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

The Director of Project Management must possess extensive knowledge of project management principles, methodologies, and best practices, particularly in the context of large-scale capital improvement initiatives. This includes expertise in project lifecycle management, construction delivery methods, resource allocation, risk mitigation, and quality assurance. A deep understanding of professional services agreements, construction contracts, and regulatory frameworks—such as those set by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) and local building codes—is essential for ensuring compliance and project success.

The ability to navigate the complexities of higher education environments, including familiarity with institutional policies, state procurement regulations, and collaborative governance structures, is vital. Advanced technical proficiency is required, encompassing Microsoft Office 365, project management software (e.g., PMWeb, Primavera P6, or Microsoft Project), and document review tools such as Adobe Acrobat or Bluebeam Revu. Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) and sustainable design principles is highly desirable to promote innovation and environmental stewardship.

Exceptional leadership and organizational skills are paramount for managing a diverse team of project managers, fostering professional growth, and ensuring operational alignment across multiple projects. This position must demonstrate a proven ability to inspire, mentor, and engage staff while building a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Advanced analytical and problem-solving capabilities are critical for addressing complex project challenges, developing strategic solutions, and driving informed decision-making that supports institutional priorities.

Superior communication and interpersonal skills are essential for building strong relationships with stakeholders, synthesizing technical information, and presenting it clearly to varied audiences, including UNTS executives, campus representatives, and external contractors. The Director of Project Management must be committed to upholding integrity, accountability, and professionalism, ensuring they serve as a trusted leader within the UNTS community.

Preferred Qualifications

The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, construction management, or a closely related field, with advanced academic qualifications such as a master’s degree in these disciplines or business administration being strongly preferred. This role requires a minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in project management, with at least five years in a leadership capacity overseeing large-scale capital improvement projects. Experience within higher education or public-sector environments is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) requirements and state procurement regulations.

Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of managing multimillion-dollar projects, showcasing expertise in planning, execution, and delivery within complex institutional frameworks. Practical experience with sustainable design practices, including LEED certification processes and green building standards, is highly valued.

Professional certifications reflecting advanced expertise, such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA), are strongly preferred. Additional credentials in construction safety, such as the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification or First Aid/CPR certification, are advantageous. Membership in professional organizations like the Project Management Institute (PMI), the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA), or the American Institute of Architects (AIA), along with demonstrated thought leadership through publications or presentations, further strengthens a candidate’s profile.

The preferred candidate will exhibit a strong commitment to innovation, professional development, and process improvement, demonstrating leadership qualities that align with the organization’s mission and strategic objectives.

Preferred

While not mandatory, possession by the candidate of professional licensure or certification signifying advanced expertise in architecture, engineering, or project management and a commitment to industry standards are preferred. These licenses and certifications could include:

• State licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) or as a Registered Architect (RA).
• Project Management Professional (PMP), awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI).
• Certified Construction Manager (CCM), awarded by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA).
• Certified Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) designation, awarded by the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA).
• Certified LEED Accredited Professional Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is preferred.
  
  

Required License/Registration/Certifications

Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license to support travel requirements across UNTS campuses and project sites.

Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, architectural engineering, or closely related field; and ten years' of experience in facilities design, construction, and maintenance, or any equivalent combination of experience, education or training.

Candidates are also expected to have completed or demonstrate the ability to complete construction safety certifications, such as the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification. Additional safety credentials, including First Aid and CPR certifications, are preferred to support on-site safety readiness.

Eligibility to work in the state of Texas and adherence to all compliance, ethics, and professional conduct policies of the UNTS are mandatory. Familiarity with regulatory frameworks and standards, such as those established by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB), further enhances the candidate’s suitability for this leadership role.

Certified LEED Accredited Professional Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C) awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is preferred.

Job Duties

• Strategic Leadership and Oversight
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to enhance the efficiency and consistency of project delivery across campuses.
• Align capital improvement initiatives with the UNTS strategic goals, working with senior leadership to prioritize projects and allocate resources effectively.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, providing insights into project trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Represent UNTS in interactions with local, regional, and state agencies, as directed.
• Project Management and Execution
• Supervise the lifecycle of capital projects, from feasibility and planning through design, construction, and closeout.
• Administer contracts for design and construction services, ensuring compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.
• Monitor project performance metrics, addressing risks proactively to ensure timely and cost-effective completion.
• Facilitate coordination among architects, engineers, contractors, and stakeholders to maintain momentum and resolve challenges.
• Oversee the preparation and management of critical project documentation, including budgets, schedules, RFQs, RFPs, and change orders.
• Team Leadership and Development
• Recruit, mentor, and manage a team of project management professionals, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct performance evaluations, establish development plans, and ensure alignment of team efforts with institutional priorities.
• Provide training and resources to keep staff current with industry trends, tools, and best practices.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Communication
• Act as the primary liaison between UNTS leadership, campus stakeholders, and external partners, ensuring alignment and transparent communication throughout the project lifecycle.
• Maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders, promoting trust and collaboration.
• Represent UNTS in regulatory and community engagements related to permitting, inspections, and compliance.
• Financial and Risk Management
• Develop and manage project budgets, ensuring fiscal accountability and alignment with funding sources.
• Implement cost control measures and value engineering practices to optimize resource utilization.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks, implementing strategies to address challenges proactively.
• Continuous Improvement and Sustainability
• Drive process improvements to enhance project outcomes and integrate lessons learned into future initiatives.
• Champion sustainable practices, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations and promoting energy-efficient, environmentally friendly solutions in design and construction.
• Project Closeout and Activation
• Ensure all project closeout activities are completed, including addressing punch lists and preparing as-built documentation.
• Oversee training sessions for campus teams to ensure the smooth activation and operation of new facilities.
• Conduct post-project evaluations to document lessons learned and identify opportunities for improvement.
  

Work Schedule

Monday - Friday: 8AM-5PM

Driving University Vehicle

Yes

Security Sensitive

This is a Security Sensitive Position.

Special Instructions

Applicants must submit a minimum of two professional references as part of their application. If needed, additional references can be added after the application has been submitted.

Benefits

For information regarding our Benefits, click here.

EEO Statement

The University of North Texas System is firmly committed to equal opportunity and does not permit -- and takes actions to prevent -- discrimination, harassment (including sexual violence, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking) and retaliation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its application, employment practices and facilities; nor permits race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or sex discrimination and harassment in its admissions processes, and educational programs and activities, facilities and employment practices. The University of North Texas System promptly investigates complaints of discrimination, harassment and related retaliation and takes remedial action when appropriate. The University of North Texas System also takes actions to prevent retaliation against individuals who oppose any form of harassment or discriminatory practice, file a charge or report, or testify, assist or participate in an investigative proceeding or hearing.