Project Manager - Reconstruction
Reconstruction Project Manager Carlstadt, NJ or Queens, NY — Manage complex reconstruction projects from disaster to delivery. Lead teams, own profitability, and restore communities across the Tri-State area. We're primarily seeking candidates in Northern New Jersey (Carlstadt office) or New York City (Queens office). Strong candidates from across the Tri-State area will also be considered. Is This Role Right for You? Our client is hiring a Reconstruction Project Manager (or Senior Reconstruction Project Manager for the right candidate) — a hands-on leadership role managing 10-15 active reconstruction projects simultaneously in the insurance restoration space. This isn't about shuffling paperwork. This is about managing budgets, coordinating crews, hitting margin targets, and restoring properties — for someone who thrives running projects like their own business and gets energized by solving problems on the fly. The Company The Market The Opportunity A leading restoration and reconstruction company serving the Tri-State area — decades of experience helping communities recover from floods, fires, and disasters. A recession-proof, mission-driven industry. When disaster strikes, you're the person who brings expertise and results to families and businesses in crisis. Join a high-performing team with immediate project flow, proven systems, and the infrastructure to support you from day one. Run your projects autonomously and get rewarded when you hit your numbers. PRESENTED BY JOMBINE This role is brought to you by Jombine. We're a recruiting partnership representing our client in this search. We are Jombine — a recruiting partnership that goes far beyond traditional headhunting. We represent our clients as trusted talent advisors, partnering with leadership teams to find candidates who don't just meet the technical requirements, but genuinely align with their unique culture, values, and team dynamics. Our clients choose us because we invest the time to truly understand what makes their organization special — and then we find candidates who will thrive in that specific environment. This isn't about placing bodies in seats; it's about identifying people who will contribute to, and be energized by, the culture our clients are working to build. Learn more at www.jombine.com . THE WHO About Our Client Our client is one of the leading restoration and reconstruction companies operating in the Tri-State area , with strategically located offices serving residential, institutional, and commercial customers. For decades, they've served communities during their darkest hours — floods, fires, mold emergencies — bringing people back to their homes and businesses with care, expertise, and a phoenix-like commitment to restoration. They operate offices in Carlstadt, NJ and Queens, NY — serving one of the most demanding and dynamic markets in the country. From flooded basements in Brooklyn to fire-damaged commercial properties in Hoboken to mold remediation in Manhattan high-rises, this team handles it all. The Industry Reality The restoration industry is recession-proof, growing, and serves communities during their most vulnerable moments . Floods, fires, mold emergencies — these don't stop during economic downturns. If anything, deferred maintenance and aging housing stock in the Northeast make the need greater. Imagine a restaurant kitchen fire that closes the business and 50 employees are now temporarily out of work. Or a broken pipe that floods a home and displaces a family. Our client steps in with steadfast service, innovative solutions, and all-inclusive support to get people back in business. The Tri-State Footprint Carlstadt, NJ and Queens, NY offices — serving residential, commercial, and institutional clients across New Jersey, New York City, and surrounding Tri-State markets. You'll manage a portfolio of complex reconstruction projects across some of the nation's most challenging and rewarding territories. THE WHAT What You'll Be Managing You will own reconstruction projects from estimate to completion — managing timelines, budgets, crews, subcontractors, client relationships, and profitability. You're the quarterback, problem-solver, and the person keeping everyone aligned while delivering results that exceed expectations and hit margin targets. Project Ownership & P&L Team & Subcontractor Leadership Manage 10-15 active reconstruction projects end-to-end. Own budgets, schedules, and profitability for your entire portfolio. Lead field crews and coordinate subcontractors across multiple trades. Build relationships and hold people accountable. Client & Adjuster Management Controlled Chaos Navigation Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and insurance adjusters. Build trust and manage expectations through every phase. Navigate change orders, scope creep, supply chain issues, crew challenges, and weather delays. Find solutions that keep projects moving. MUST HAVES What This Role Demands We're looking for construction project management veterans with 3-5 years of experience managing multi-trade projects. Ideally, you have 3-5 years of insurance restoration experience — but strong construction fundamentals and the ability to learn are what matter most. For the right candidate with senior-level experience , we're open to a Senior Reconstruction Project Manager role with compensation to match. Per our client: "Let's not let salary be a gating factor — we can cross that bridge when we talk to them." Construction PM Experience Multi-Project Juggling 3-5 years managing multi-trade construction or reconstruction projects. Understanding of RFIs, PCOs, change orders, budgets, and commercial construction processes. Proven track record managing 10-20 concurrent projects with overlapping timelines and varying scopes. You're organized and nothing falls through the cracks. Insurance Restoration Experience (Valued, Not Required) Subcontractor & Team Leadership Experience in fire/water damage reconstruction and working with insurance adjusters is a plus but NOT required . Strong construction background is what we need most. You've led field crews, managed subcontractors across trades (drywall, tile, paint, flooring, HVAC, electrical, plumbing), and built strong working relationships. THE WHY Why This Industry, Why Now The restoration industry is recession-proof, mission-driven, and growing . When disaster strikes — and it always does — someone has to step in. That someone is you. But beyond stability, this role offers real impact . You're not building spec homes. You're helping families get back into their homes after a fire. You're helping small business owners reopen after a flood. You show up when everything feels broken — and you make it right. Beyond the mission, you'll have true autonomy — work from home and job sites, run your projects like your own P&L, make decisions without bureaucracy, and get rewarded through commissions when you hit your numbers. You're also joining a thriving, busy team with immediate project flow, proven processes, and infrastructure to support you from day one. THE WHERE Tri-State Based With Regional Reach This role will be based in either Carlstadt, NJ or Queens, NY depending on candidate location and preference. This is a hybrid/remote role — you'll work from home and job sites (not required to be in the office daily), and you'll be provided with a company vehicle . Home Base Office Locations Carlstadt, NJ or Queens, NY (candidate preference) Carlstadt, NJ and Queens, NY — you'll manage projects across both territories Travel Expectation Your Mission Field Daily travel to job sites across your territory. Minimal overnight travel, but expect to be on the road visiting sites, meeting clients, and managing crews regularly. Urban, suburban, and commercial properties across Northern New Jersey, New York City, and the greater Tri-State area. THE HOW Three Strategic Initiatives: Your First 90 Days Success in this role will be defined by three clear priorities as you ramp up and take ownership of your project portfolio. 1. Project Portfolio Ownership & Profitability Take over your assigned reconstruction projects and immediately establish control — understand scope, timelines, budgets, and client expectations. Hit margin targets and deliver quality work that builds trust with clients and adjusters. 2. Team & Subcontractor Coordination Build strong working relationships with your field crews and subcontractor network. Set clear expectations, hold people accountable, and create a culture of excellence on your job sites. 3. Client & Adjuster Relationship Management Establish yourself as the go-to expert for your clients and insurance partners. Communicate proactively, solve problems quickly, and build the kind of reputation that generates repeat business and referrals. YOUR DNA A High-Impact Opportunity for a Driven, Hands-On Project Leader Autonomous & Self-Directed Mission-Driven & Resilient You don't need hand-holding. You thrive working from home and job sites, running your projects like your own business. You're comfortable with freedom and accountability in equal measure. You're motivated by helping people rebuild during crisis moments. This intrinsic motivation gets you through high-pressure situations and keeps you engaged long-term. Calm Under Pressure Relational Connector You maintain professional composure facing tight deadlines, difficult clients, or on-site emergencies. You have sound judgment and don't panic — you problem-solve. You're a natural relationship-builder who views subcontractors as partners. You invest time cultivating trust, reliability, and loyalty with your trade partners. Accountability Without Excuses Proactive Communicator You have a high ownership mentality. You take responsibility for project outcomes — margin, timeline, quality — and follow through on commitments. You're obsessive about keeping clients informed. You anticipate questions before they arise and understand that communication is key to customer satisfaction. WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR As a Reconstruction Project Manager (or Senior Reconstruction Project Manager ), you will manage a portfolio of 10-15 active reconstruction projects simultaneously , coordinating subcontractors, managing budgets and schedules, and serving as the primary point of contact for clients during some of the most stressful moments of their lives. You'll run your projects with autonomy, supported by site superintendents, customer experience coordinators, and estimators — but the ultimate accountability for project success sits with you. RESPONSIBILITIES The Day to Day → Manage 10-15 Active Reconstruction Projects Oversee projects with varying timelines, scopes, and complexities. Run them like your own business. → Coordinate Multi-Trade Subcontractors Manage subcontractors, vendors, inspections, and material deliveries across tile, drywall, paint, flooring, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical trades. → Develop & Maintain Project Schedules Use Gantt chart tools (ProAssist, Builder Trend, or similar) to keep projects on track. → Estimate & Manage Change Orders Collaborate with estimators on supplements, change orders, RFIs, and PCOs. → Monitor Budgets & Track Costs Manage P&L to hit gross margin targets. Create purchase orders and control project profitability. → Client & Adjuster Communication Provide proactive updates, manage expectations, and navigate high-stress situations with professionalism and empathy. → Ensure Compliance & Quality Maintain compliance with building codes, permitting, safety standards, and company policies. Oversee jobsite quality and cleanliness. → Manage Punch Lists & Closeouts Ensure projects are completed to client satisfaction with proper documentation. → Participate in On-Call Rotation Join rotating on-call schedule for emergency response (24/7 business model). QUALIFICATIONS Required Education & Experience We're looking for an experienced construction or reconstruction professional with proven ability to manage multiple projects, hit financial targets, and lead teams in high-pressure environments. 3-5 Years Experience Multi-Project Management Construction project management experience — ideally with 3-5 years in insurance restoration (but NOT required). Strong construction fundamentals are what matter most. Proven track record managing 10-20 projects simultaneously with overlapping timelines and varying scopes. Commercial Construction Processes Senior PM Consideration Experience with lien waivers, RFIs, PCOs, change orders, and commercial construction budgeting. For candidates with 5 years of senior-level experience and proven track record with larger/more complex projects, we're open to a Senior PM role with higher compensation. SKILLS & TRAVEL Competencies, Abilities & Skills Technical Expertise Leadership & Communication Problem Solving & Adaptability Strong knowledge of construction methods, building codes, and estimating. Experience with Xactimate preferred but can be trained. Excellent written and verbal communication. Ability to lead crews, manage subs, and have tough conversations when needed. Think on your feet, navigate unexpected challenges, and find solutions. Resourceful and resilient. Financial Acumen Organizational Skills Technology Proficiency Understanding of project budgets, cost control, margin management, and P&L drivers. Manage multiple projects simultaneously and stay organized in a fast-paced environment. Detail-oriented. Proficiency with Gantt chart tools (ProAssist, Builder Trend), Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook), and mobile field documentation tools. Xactimate experience valued but trainable. Travel Requirements Daily travel to job sites across Northern New Jersey or New York City territory. Minimal overnight travel, but expect regular on-the-road time visiting sites, meeting clients, and managing crews. Company vehicle provided (clean driving record required). SALARY & BENEFITS Compensation & Benefits $120,000-$200,000 Senior PM Range Competitive base salary starting at $70,000 plus % earnings on every job performed (the team averages over $100,000 in these earnings on top of base compensation. For Senior PM Candidates: Higher compensation for candidates with 5 years of senior-level experience. Performance Commissions The Real Opportunity $80,000-$200,000 annually tied to hitting gross margin targets and efficient project closeouts Join a stable, growing company in a recession-proof industry with opportunities to grow, take on bigger projects, and advance your career. Our client provides a comprehensive benefits package, including: Medical, Dental & Vision 401k & Matching Plan Company Vehicle Paid Vacation Time Paid Holidays Paid Paternity/Maternity Leave Life Insurance Training & Development Other work perks include team bonding events, company retreats, leadership development programs, and more. NEXT STEPS Seize Your Opportunity If you're a driven reconstruction professional ready to take ownership of complex projects, lead teams, manage P&L, and deliver results in one of the most dynamic markets in the country, we want to hear from you. This is more than a job — it's a chance to make a real impact in people's lives during their most difficult moments while building a career with a company that values service, excellence, and accountability.
