Construction Project Manager

The Emerald Cloud Lab (ECL) enables life scientists to move out of the lab and conduct research entirely from a computer. Instead of manually running experiments at the bench, scientists using ECL leverage the remote, automated execution of standard biology and chemistry experiments in Emerald's industrial lab facilities, working within a software platform that supports every stage of the research workflow, from experimental design to data analysis. Our system empowers scientists at large pharmaceutical companies, startups, and academic laboratories to run wet lab experiments from anywhere in the world without ever setting foot in a lab.

About the Role

ECL is renovating it's 100,000+ sq. ft. facility in Austin, Texas, to expand its capacity. We are looking for an experienced Construction Project Manager to lead this renovation from planning through completion. This person will serve as ECL's primary point of contact for the general contractor and all other construction related suppliers, ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality and safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Project leadership: Serve as the primary point of contact for the general contractor, architects/engineers, and vendors on the Austin facility expansion, driving the project from planning through closeout.
• Schedule and budget management: Develop and maintain the master construction schedule and budget; track progress against milestones and proactively flag risks, delays, or cost overruns.
• Contractor and vendor management: Manage day-to-day performance of the general contractor and specialty vendors, including bid review, contract administration, change order review, and invoice approval.
• Coordination with design and engineering: Partner with architectural and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) and civil engineering teams to ensure design intent is carried through construction.
• Lab fit-out oversight: Coordinate procurement, delivery, and installation of key facility fit-out components (e.g., utility manifolds, workcell infrastructure, sample storage, and waste handling systems) in partnership with ECL's facilities and Laboratory Development teams.
• Permitting and code compliance: Ensure the project complies with all applicable local building codes, permitting requirements, and inspections, coordinating with local authorities as needed.
• Quality and safety: Conduct regular site walks to monitor work quality and jobsite safety, and ensure the general contractor maintains a safe working environment.
• Commissioning and turnover: Support facility commissioning and site-readiness activities, ensuring a smooth handoff from construction to operations.
• Reporting: Provide regular status updates to ECL leadership on schedule, budget, risks, and key decisions.

Experience & Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• Experience: 10+ years of progressive construction project management experience, including 3-5 years in a senior management role, ideally overseeing renovation or ground-up projects for lab, life sciences, or other technical/industrial facilities.
• Skills: Deep knowledge of construction methods, budgeting, scheduling, and project management software, along with strong leadership, negotiation, and vendor management skills.
• Certifications: Professional credentials such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or CCM (Certified Construction Manager) are preferred.
• Plus: Experience with construction projects at GMP-regulated facilities is a plus.