Senior Project Manager in Madison,WI,US

Summary The Senior Project Manager is responsible for the successful planning, execution, and delivery of complex capital and process engineering projects. This role oversees all phases of the project lifecycle-scope definition, budgeting, resource planning, vendor management, installation, and commissioning-while ensuring compliance with regulatory and safety standards. The Senior Project Manager also contributes to capital strategy, interfaces with key stakeholders, and leads internal and external teams to ensure safe, on-time, and within-budget delivery. Key Responsibilities Project Leadership & Execution Plan, direct, and coordinate capital projects from inception through commissioning, including infrastructure upgrades, equipment installations, automation, and safety improvements. Develop comprehensive project scopes, budgets, schedules, and resource plans aligned with organizational goals. Serve as the primary point of contact with consultants, vendors, and contractors to ensure alignment throughout the project. Oversee project kickoff, milestone tracking, risk mitigation planning, and closeout activities including postmortems and lessons learned documentation. Ensure projects meet all internal quality standards and performance expectations. Technical Oversight Lead the technical coordination of multidisciplinary project teams, including mechanical, electrical, and controls engineering. Review and approve design deliverables such as P&IDs, schematics, interconnection drawings, equipment specifications, and installation details. Provide technical guidance and collaborate with operations, engineering, and plant teams to troubleshoot design and construction issues. Support field teams during commissioning, validation, and operational readiness activities. Vendor & Contractor Management Develop complete Request for Proposal (RFP) and bid packages for electrical, mechanical, and controls scopes. Evaluate proposals and lead contractor/vendor selection processes based on capabilities, cost, and compliance. Manage contractor performance, including safety, quality, schedule adherence, and issue resolution. Coordinate contractor mobilization and oversee construction, integration, and start-up activities. Capital Planning & Compliance Contribute to annual capital planning efforts by identifying project opportunities aligned with strategic priorities. Ensure project execution adheres to USDA, FDA, OSHA, NEC, NFPA, and other applicable standards. Maintain awareness of evolving industry regulations and best practices, applying them proactively to project planning and execution. Communication & Documentation Maintain clear and continuous communication with internal teams and leadership throughout each project. Ensure timely and accurate documentation of all project decisions, design changes, site conditions, and critical communications. Develop and deliver project reports, status updates, and cost/schedule forecasts to leadership. Organize and maintain complete and auditable project records and closeout documentation. Supervisory Responsibilities Lead, coach, and mentor internal and external project team members. Provide guidance in performance feedback, development planning, and conflict resolution. Foster a collaborative and accountable team environment that promotes quality, safety, and continuous improvement. Work Conditions & Physical Demands Work is primarily office-based but requires frequent visits to industrial job sites, plants, or vendor facilities. Must be physically capable of site walks, equipment inspections, and participation in construction and commissioning activities. Exposure to varying noise levels and environmental conditions is expected in field settings. Overtime, including evenings or weekends, may be required during project peaks. PPE and safety training will be provided for all field work. Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related STEM field (required). Minimum 10 years of project management or engineering experience in capital equipment, systems integration, or industrial facility upgrades. Minimum 2 years in a supervisory or technical leadership capacity. Experience with USDA/FDA-regulated environments preferred. Proven track record in delivering complex capital projects from concept through commissioning. Skills & Competencies Working familiarity with AutoCAD, P&IDs, schematics, and technical drawings. Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Strong problem-solving, conflict resolution, and decision-making abilities. Proficient in Microsoft Project, Excel, Word, and Outlook. Demonstrated business acumen and ability to manage budgets, risk, and timelines. Valid U.S. Driver's License (required). Ability to obtain a valid passport for international travel if required.