Senior Project Manager

Overview

Within SSOE’s Tool Install division, we specialize in high-tech Tool Installation design, offering top-tier design and engineering services to a diverse array of clients and markets. Our team is composed of highly skilled and knowledgeable professionals who excel across various disciplines. We pride ourselves on our cross-disciplinary approach, which allows us to understand and address our clients' needs more comprehensively than traditional, siloed methods. What sets us apart is our ability to seamlessly conceptualize, plan, and detail every aspect of design. Our in-house experts collaborate closely, optimizing and enhancing our work through multi-discipline strategy sessions. By leveraging cutting-edge techniques and state-of-the-art software, we deliver industry-leading technology and innovative solutions from day one.

SSOE is seeking a Senior Project Manager to join our Tool Install design team. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional with a strong background in managing complex design-build tool installation and hook-up projects within high-tech semiconductor (fab) environments. You will lead cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on scope, schedule, and the designs follow the project and client specifications and standards. The projects this person will be engaged on will encompass a variety of unique challenges and innovative solutions due to their varying sizes, scopes, and complexities. You will partner with our multidisciplinary teams of architects, engineers, and designers, to deliver exceptional results for our clients. This role offers the opportunity to lead and contribute to the development of innovative solutions for some of the world's leading technological companies. This position is an onsite role that will require you to work onsite each day and be located in the N. Phoenix, AZ area. Remote or hybrid work arrangements for this role are not available. Local candidates are encouraged to apply, but relocation assistance may be provided for well-qualified candidates. 

AI and Innovation

At SSOE, we don’t just talk about the future, we build it. As a leader in industry AI adoption, we empower our team to work smarter by providing responsible access to the industry leading AI Large Language Models, vibe-coding platforms, and securely integrating advanced tools into every role. From day one, you’ll receive the training and support needed to leverage AI as a core tool for enhancing productivity, sparking creativity, and streamlining complex workflows.

Responsibilities

• Identify, understand, and manage the scope of work, schedule, and budget of various design packages.
• Lead the end-to-end execution of tool install design projects, from initial equipment specifications and utility matrix development through to final hook-up, commissioning, and client handover.
• Develop and manage detailed tool-level installation schedules, ensuring critical path milestones are met to support the client’s "First Tool" and "Ready for Equipment" (RFE) dates.
• Act as the primary point of contact between the design team, trade contractors, and client tool owners to resolve conflicts regarding space management, utility routing, and point-of-connection (POC) details.
• Maintain strict control over project budgets, managing change orders related to tool configuration shifts and ensuring procurement of long-lead infrastructure components aligns with the installation sequence.
• Enforce EHS standards and cleanroom protocols, ensuring that all installation activities are performed without compromising the integrity of the facility or the safety of the personnel.
• Proactively identify and mitigate risks associated with utility capacity, seismic bracing, and vibration isolation requirements for sensitive process equipment.
• Follows established change management procedures to document and receive authorization for project change orders in a timely manner.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives leveraging lessons learned to optimize project delivery methodologies and enhance client satisfaction.
• Offer mentorship and training to fellow Project Managers, sharing insights on resolving intricate design challenges in high technology and industrial design projects, both at SSOE and client sites.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, or related technical discipline preferred).
• Demonstrated project management experience, with a significant portion focused on the design of industrial, advanced technology, or high-tech manufacturing facilities (e.g., semiconductor fabrication plants, data centers, pharmaceutical manufacturing).
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is highly desired.
• Demonstrated proficiency with project scheduling software, such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar. Experience with resource loading and critical path analysis is essential.
• Demonstrated success leading cross-cultural, cross-time-zone project teams, adept at tailoring communication styles and governance to diverse audiences.
• Fluency in spoken and written Mandarin to support business operations and communicate effectively with Mandarin‑speaking clients and partners is a plus.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences. Proven ability to negotiate and resolve conflicts effectively with various stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify root causes and develop effective solutions.
• Ability to perform field verifications and site walks in industrial environments, including the ability to navigate construction sites and potentially access elevated areas.
• Salary Range: $135,000 - $165,000/year depending on location, education, experience, and any certifications that are directly related to the position.
• Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, 401K retirement savings plan (with company matching), opportunities for professional development and training, generous PTO & paid holidays.

Join us at SSOE, where your expertise will thrive in a dynamic, collaborative environment dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design and engineering excellence. If you're passionate about innovation and eager to make a significant impact, we invite you to apply and become a part of our forward-thinking team.

#LI-Onsite

#PHX/AUS

Responsibilities

- Identify, understand, and manage the scope of work, schedule, and budget of various design packages.
- Lead the end-to-end execution of tool install design projects, from initial equipment specifications and utility matrix development through to final hook-up, commissioning, and client handover.
- Develop and manage detailed tool-level installation schedules, ensuring critical path milestones are met to support the client’s "First Tool" and "Ready for Equipment" (RFE) dates.
- Act as the primary point of contact between the design team, trade contractors, and client tool owners to resolve conflicts regarding space management, utility routing, and point-of-connection (POC) details.
- Maintain strict control over project budgets, managing change orders related to tool configuration shifts and ensuring procurement of long-lead infrastructure components aligns with the installation sequence.
- Enforce EHS standards and cleanroom protocols, ensuring that all installation activities are performed without compromising the integrity of the facility or the safety of the personnel.
- Proactively identify and mitigate risks associated with utility capacity, seismic bracing, and vibration isolation requirements for sensitive process equipment.
- Follows established change management procedures to document and receive authorization for project change orders in a timely manner.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives leveraging lessons learned to optimize project delivery methodologies and enhance client satisfaction.
- Offer mentorship and training to fellow Project Managers, sharing insights on resolving intricate design challenges in high technology and industrial design projects, both at SSOE and client sites.