Senior Pipeline Project Manager

Job description:

About RUIZ

RUIZ is a rapidly expanding Engineering, Project/Construction Management, Inspection and Surveying services firm specializing in the Utility, Energy, and Oil & Gas sectors across the United States. We pride ourselves on maintaining a professional, supportive, and rewarding work environment with a family-oriented culture that prioritizes employee growth and development.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Pipeline Project Manager to lead complex natural gas pipeline and utility distribution projects from conception through completion. This senior-level position requires a seasoned professional who can manage large-scale, multi-million dollar projects while mentoring junior staff and driving strategic initiatives. The successful candidate will bring proven expertise in project management, ensuring exceptional project delivery while maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance, and quality.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Project Leadership

• Lead and manage multiple high-complexity natural gas pipeline and distribution projects with budgets ranging from $5M to $50M+
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to project teams
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across project delivery methodologies

Advanced Project Management & Coordination

• Oversee end-to-end project lifecycle including planning, design review, procurement, construction, commissioning, and closeout
• Coordinate complex multi-disciplinary teams including engineers, inspectors, construction crews, surveyors, and regulatory specialists
• Manage critical path scheduling using advanced project management software (Primavera P6, MS Project)
• Facilitate stakeholder meetings with utility operators, regulatory agencies, local governments, and community representatives
• Implement and maintain integrated project delivery systems and best practices

Regulatory Compliance & Technical Excellence

• Ensure strict adherence to 49 CFR 192, ASME B31.8, DOT regulations, and state-specific pipeline safety standards
• Lead development and implementation of comprehensive Quality Management Systems (QMS)
• Oversee complex integrity management programs including in-line inspection planning and anomaly resolution
• Manage environmental compliance including NEPA coordination, permitting, and stakeholder engagement
• Conduct detailed technical reviews of engineering designs, specifications, and construction procedures

Financial Management & Business Development

• Develop and manage project budgets exceeding $50M with responsibility for P&L performance
• Lead earned value management (EVM) analysis and implement cost control measures
• Prepare comprehensive financial forecasting and variance analysis reports
• Manage change order processes and contract negotiations with subcontractors and vendors

Field Operations & Quality Assurance

• Direct comprehensive inspection programs for mainline construction, station work, and tie-in operations
• Oversee complex operational procedures including pipeline commissioning, hydrostatic testing, and in-service activities
• Manage specialized construction activities such as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), river crossings, and urban installations

Required Qualifications

Experience & Background

• 10+ years of progressive project management experience in natural gas pipeline construction, transmission, or distribution systems
• 8+ years of hands-on experience with large-scale pipeline construction operations (minimum $10M project values)
• 5+ years in senior leadership roles managing multiple concurrent projects
• Proven track record of successful delivery of complex infrastructure projects on time and within budget
• Experience with both greenfield and brownfield pipeline development projects

Technical Expertise

• Expert-level knowledge of 49 CFR 192, ASME B31.8, API standards, and NACE requirements
• Advanced proficiency in pipeline design principles, materials selection, and construction methodologies
• Deep understanding of integrity management programs, risk assessment, and pipeline safety management systems
• Experience with advanced construction techniques including HDD, micro tunneling, pipe bursting, and live tie-ins.

Project Management & Leadership

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification required
• Advanced knowledge of project management methodologies (PMI, PRINCE2, Agile)
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams of 20+ personnel across multiple locations
• Strong financial acumen including earned value management and cost engineering principles

Communication & Business Skills

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with ability to present to C-level executives
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholder groups
• Experience in change management and organizational development

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in relevant discipline
• Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or equivalent certification
• Master's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field
• Experience with midstream and downstream natural gas facilities
• Background in regulatory affairs and permitting processes
• Experience with international pipeline projects

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance
• Work Location: Remote