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Harvard University

Project Manager

Closes:

800

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard University Central Administration?

Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.

Job Description

Harvard Capital Projects (HCP) is an internal resource for the Harvard community providing project management services across the entire campus. HCP works collaboratively with a variety of Harvard Schools and Departments, providing project management services for a variety of campus renewal, campus growth, and development and undergraduate house renewal projects. HCP prides itself on being a center of excellence for capital project delivery.

The Project Manager reports to the Associate Director for Campus Growth and Redevelopment and will be responsible for managing scope within a large project team or independent projects primarily focused on architecture and design, including new construction, full/partial renovations, additions, and interiors. The project manager may also manage tenant fit outs for both academic and commercial use.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Project Management

  • Works independently and successfully to manage, in whole or in part as assigned, core project activities: budget, scope, and schedule with demonstrated prior experience in project administration and contract negotiation.
  • The individual should be able to review, organize, and analyze data to make strategic decisions on core project activities/assignments for review with Senior Project Manager or Associate Director.
  • Effective management of design and consultant teams.
  • Effective management of internal Harvard Campus Services stakeholders and processes.
  • Established knowledge of professional project management, architecture, engineering, or construction management skills and best practices for design and construction across a variety of project types and/or stakeholders. Applies knowledge thoughtfully and strategically to manage/ implement core project requirements in alignment with department and university mission.
  • Nature of work is primarily independent on low complexity projects.
  • Accountable for delivery of tasks operating within guidelines/policies.
  • Has established organization methods/tools for communication, tracking progress, and escalating issues to supervisor.
  • Prepares initial drafts of project scope, budget and schedules and is accountable for clearly defined activities with some complexity.
  • Reviews design concepts, tracks submittals, and provides day-to-day direction to project team with assistance from Senior Project Manager or Associate Director.
  • Frequently works on issues requiring strategic thinking.
  • Identifies issues, potential risks, gathers facts and finds successful solutions to problems as they arise.
  • Exercises judgment within defined procedures and policies to determine appropriate action or innovation to implement core project requirements.
  • Works regularly with Senior Project Manager or Associate Director to review solutions and strategies to limit risk, communicate clearly, and improve core skill set with a goal of more independent management.
  • Participates as the lead of the project team from design, permitting approvals, to construction and closeout.
  • Manages the project delivery process through all project phases.
  • Facilitates communication throughout project, particularly during transition from one phase to the next.
  • Works with HCP leadership to develop and maintain project schedules and budgets for all projects.
  • Participates in the owner’s construction meetings to review construction progress and quality. Monitors, systematizes, recommends, and reports on all change proposals and monitors impact on project schedules and budgets.
  • Manages project quality control through design team, independent testing firms, commissioning authorities and other resources, as necessary.
  • Manages submittal review process to ensure expeditious processing.
  • Observes all on site tests required by the contract documents and coordinates testing activities by agents retained by the Owner. Observes and reviews the contractor’s record drawings and reports any apparent failure by the contractor to maintain records.
  • Manages a timely and orderly project closeout processes. Works with consultants and operations personnel to prepare a punch-list for the contractor and ensure punch-list items have been addressed appropriately.

Financial Management

  • Reviews and recommends for payment project invoices.
  • Prepares and updates project cash flow projections. Provides budget updates in whole or as assigned, reviews proposed change orders and discusses project budget issues with HCP senior staff as needed.
  • Guides design decisions by stakeholders to maintain the project scope within the approved scope and budget. Coordinates and takes part in the value engineering process.
  • Working closely with Senior Project Manager or Associate Director, negotiating design and construction contracts and change orders.

Regulatory Approvals

  • Together with other members of the project team, coordinates submissions to jurisdictional authorities for permitting. Ensures compliance with regulations and all authorities having jurisdiction. Arranges for all jurisdictional authorities’ inspection necessary to secure final approval for projects, as necessary.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

  • Minimum 7 years of architectural, engineering, construction or project management experience. Architectural preferred for this role.
  • Bachelor’s degree is required,.
  • Demonstrates understanding of the role and responsibility of a capital project manager for the client and stakeholders in alignment with the larger university mission.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

  • Registered Licensed Architect is a plus. or ability to obtain within 12 months of hire date
  • Demonstrates strong organization, graphic, and presentation skills.
  • Experience with furniture selection and procurement, and high performance Sustainability standards (e.g. Living Building Challenge Core) is preferred.
  • Project role requires the ability to gain cooperation of others, build consensus, conduct presentations of technical and/or design information concerning specific projects or schedules.
  • Demonstrates awareness of and aptitude for emotional/social intelligence as part of the successful management of team members, information, supervisors, and stakeholders on a capital project.
  • Clear communicator with an understanding of up-management and escalation of issues and information to Supervisor.
  • Ability to thrive within a team structure.
  • Ability to work with diverse constituencies.
  • Familiarity with design and construction processes.
  • Familiarity with City, State, and Federal processes, codes and/or ordinances.
  • Ability to develop and maintain project budgets, cash flow projections and schedules.
  • Skills in interpreting architectural and construction contracts.
  • Ability to negotiate and resolve confrontational issues as they arise.
  • Commitment to diversity and to serving the needs of a diverse organization.
  • Experience with design and construction of buildings with exemplary sustainability performance.

Additional Information

Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week

Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education, Criminal, and References

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 058. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title
Project Manager
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Aug 18, 2026
Closes:
Oct 17, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Facilities Management

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications do I need to become a Project Manager at Harvard University?

You need a Bachelor's degree and at least 7 years of architectural, engineering, construction, or project management experience. An architectural background is preferred, and a Registered Licensed Architect credential is a plus. If you're exploring similar roles, browse administration jobs in higher education.

📐Is architectural experience required for this Harvard Capital Projects role?

Architectural experience is preferred, not strictly required. Harvard accepts candidates with engineering, construction, or project management experience, but the role is primarily focused on architecture and design, including new construction, renovations, and interiors. Experience with sustainability standards and furniture selection/procurement is also preferred. See more administrative jobs in higher education.

🛂Does Harvard University provide visa sponsorship for this Project Manager position?

No. Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. The role is hybrid and may require working in a Harvard registered state when not on campus in Cambridge, MA.

📋What are the main responsibilities of the Project Manager at Harvard Capital Projects?

The Project Manager manages project scope, budget, and schedule across design and construction phases. Key duties include coordinating design consultants and internal Harvard Campus Services stakeholders, tracking submittals, managing permitting approvals, reviewing change orders and cash flow projections, negotiating contracts, and overseeing quality control and project closeout. You may also manage tenant fit-outs for academic and commercial use.

📍Where is this Harvard Project Manager job located and is remote work available?

The position is located in Cambridge, MA. It is a hybrid position, meaning some duties can be performed remotely, but the work schedule and location are set by the department based on operational needs. When not at a Harvard location, employees must work in a Harvard registered state. See also remote higher ed jobs.

💼What benefits and salary grade are offered for this Harvard Project Manager role?

This position is salary grade level 058. Harvard offers medical, dental, and vision insurance from day one, retirement plans, paid time off, parental leave, wellbeing resources, tuition assistance, and commuter benefits. No specific salary range is listed. For broader context, see university salary information.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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