Project Manager, Construction

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for shaping exceptional restaurant spaces and driving high-impact projects? If you're ready to lead large-scale initiatives, streamline industry-leading processes, and be at the forefront of our brand’s expansion, this role is for you!

Earls Kitchen + Bar is seeking a Senior Project Manager, Construction to join our Store Development team in Vancouver, BC. In this role, you will play a critical part in the successful execution of new store builds, major renovations, and optimizing department-wide processes across Canada and the USA. Reporting to the Director, Construction, you will collaborate closely with the Store Development team, guiding strategic project planning, budgeting, and execution while ensuring alignment with Earls' growth and brand vision.

You will provide leadership in all stages of the project lifecycle, from concept design through to completion, and mentor the Construction team to foster a culture of excellence. With a focus on operational efficiency, innovative solutions, and high-quality execution, you will contribute directly to Earls' continued expansion and success across North America.

Role Responsibilities

Accountable for the successful delivery of new build and renovation projects from concept design through completion across Canada and the USA.

Provide strategic input during lease negotiations for high-risk or high-value locations, ensuring project feasibility and alignment with brand expansion goals.

Lead multidisciplinary project teams and external consultants across architecture, engineering, construction, and operations; resolve technical or planning conflicts involving HVAC, MEPS, life safety, and kitchen exhaust systems.

Guide project planning strategy, including the creation and enforcement of standards, templates, trackers, and best practices across the portfolio.

Accountable for portfolio-level budgeting and scheduling strategy from start to finish, including approving capital allocations, evaluating cost trends, authorizing contingency use, and leading recovery planning when projects deviate from target.

Evaluate general contractor tenders and level bids and execute CCDC or AIA contracts, ensuring cost-effective and high-quality project execution.

Provide escalation support and decision-making for at-risk projects, including those with critical path delays, unresolved permitting/licensing issues, or major design adjustments.

Coordinate cross-functional resources (Design, Ops, Culinary, Facilities, Legal, and Marketing) to expedite decisions and maintain forward momentum on projects under tight timelines.

Develop and execute the stakeholder engagement strategy across internal and external partners, including landlords, municipal officials, and executive leadership.

Ensure consistent communication across high-profile projects; approve sensitive messaging around brand shifts, budget overruns, and scheduling risks; act as liaison to the executive team.

Support turnover, close-out, and post-opening readiness across the portfolio, ensuring a seamless handover to Facilities and Operations.

Review FF&E performance trends and collaborate with internal teams and vendors to address recurring risks and improve install readiness.

Provide mentorship and leadership to Project Managers and Project Teams; foster cross-functional collaboration and talent readiness for future project complexity.

Identify systemic risk trends, intervene where culture, morale, or engagement are at risk, and champion continuous improvement across the Construction team.

Travel to project sites across North America, averaging once per month, to interface with consultants, contractors, vendors, landlords, and municipal staff, ensuring project execution remains on schedule and within budget.

Qualifications

8+ years of experience in construction project management on capital projects over $10M within the restaurant, hospitality, or retail industry across North America.

Experience managing a team of direct reports, including day-to-day coaching and long-term development.

Knowledge of commercial kitchen and bar systems is an asset.

Ability to travel approximately 40% of the time within Canada and the USA to oversee project sites, and eligibility for a US work visa.

Strong ability to read and interpret construction drawings, including architectural, structural, MEP, and kitchen equipment plans.

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or Development Planning.

Advanced budgeting skills (Class D, B, Tender levels) and tendering process knowledge.

Proficiency in Google Sheets, SmartSheets, and Bluebeam; experience with AutoCAD, ProCore, or MS Project is a plus.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with exceptional organization and attention to detail.

Knowledge of local building codes and by‑laws, sustainability principles, and real‑estate development, and construction processes.

Field experience working in construction, consulting, or sub‑trade firms is an asset.

PMP or other project‑management certifications, diplomas, and/or degrees are an asset.

Bonus Points

A sense of humour.

A serious passion for food – we like to eat around here (sometimes wine is involved).

Open to personal development and growth.

The drive to succeed and the passion to be a part of Earls growth.

Big team player – able to be both a leader and also support those around them.

What We Offer

Competitive annual salary ranging from $110,000 to $120,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications, complemented by all the perks and benefits below.

Comprehensive health care benefits effective from your first day.

A healthy lifestyle spending account to support you in living your best life.

Employee Assistance Program.

Earls 50% discount card for food and drinks at all Earls Kitchen + Bar, the Beachhouse, Birdies Eats & Drinks, LOCAL Public Eatery, and JOEY Restaurants locations.

Make Life Awesome Week.

Opportunity to be a part of our partner‑led Employee Resource Groups (ERG), designed to bring our greater communities together through mutual causes and shared experiences.

Flexibility with our Hybrid work from home/office model.

Bring your furry friend to work in our dog‑friendly office.

Office amenities include a rooftop patio, lockers, showers, a full kitchen, and collaborative workspaces.

Travel opportunities for company events, new restaurant openings, and more!

Leadership programs with career development and opportunities for advancement.

Awards, recognitions, team‑building events, and more!

Earls is an equal‑opportunity employer. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, free from discrimination. We believe bringing together people of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities is essential to our success, and brings us closer to living our purpose to Make Life Awesome.

All employment decisions inclusive of recruiting, hiring, compensation, promotions, and terminations are based on qualifications, competencies, and merit, without the consideration of any legally protected ground. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

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