Assistant Project Manager

Our Major Projects group is currently looking to add an Assistant Project Manager to our team, based in Amherst, NS supporting the Wasoqonatl Transmission Line project. 

Reporting to the Project Manager, we are seeking an ambitious and savvy professional to support the planning, execution, and delivery of a large electrical infrastructure project. This position works closely with the Project Manager to manage project schedules, costs, subcontractor performance, and stakeholder communication, providing hands-on project management experience on a landmark transmission project in Nova Scotia.

Please Note: This position is site based and works a 6 days on / 1 day off schedule (on a 28 / 14 rotation).

• Develop, maintain, and report on project schedules, milestones, and execution plans in collaboration with the Project Manager
• Monitor compliance with safety regulations, quality standards, and environmental requirements, escalating issues to the Project Manager as required
• Track project costs, forecast variances, and prepare regular financial performance reports for the Project Manager and senior leadership
• Assist the Project Manager with day-to-day activities
• Monitor project schedule performance, identify critical path risks, and work with field supervisors and subcontractors to develop and implement recovery plans as needed
• Assist in managing project budgets by tracking costs against estimates, reviewing invoices and change orders, and flagging variances to the project manager for review and action
• Lead or support subcontractor management including scope compliance, performance monitoring, progress verification, and coordination of back-charges or contract amendments when required
• Review and approve RFIs, submittals, and design changes in coordination with the engineering team, ensuring technical decisions are documented and communicated to field crews without delay
• Facilitate project meetings with owners, engineers, and field teams, preparing agendas and meeting minutes, and driving closure on open action items across all project stakeholders
• Support procurement and materials management by tracking critical long-lead equipment deliveries, resolving supply chain issues, and ensuring materials are staged and available to support field production
• Assist with risk identification and mitigation planning, maintaining a project risk register and working with the project manager to develop proactive strategies that protect schedule, cost, and safety performance

• Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, or a related field
• 5 years of experience in a construction project management or coordination role, with a demonstrated understanding of project management concepts and tools
• Familiarity with budget tracking and cost management
• Strong understanding of project controls including schedule, cost, and change management
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Skills / Qualifications

• Experience supporting Electrical Infrastructure projects
• Working towards Project Management Professional (PMP) certification
• Previous construction industry experience is an asset

About the Project

The Wasoqonatl Transmission Line (NS-NB Reliability Tie) is a new 345 kV transmission line twinning an existing line to New Brunswick. The line will traverse approximately 160 km, from Onslow, Nova Scotia to Salisbury, New Brunswick, increasing reliability for customers by providing a stronger connection to the inter-provincial power grid while supporting the expansion of renewable energy production. This project is working in partnership with all 13 Mi’kmaq communities in Nova Scotia through a collaborative engagement and participation model. This partnership ensures Mi’kmaq perspectives, rights, and traditional knowledge are reflected in every phase of the project. 

We offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package that incorporates a complete range of employee benefits, including a 5% RRSP matching program, to ensure you have the tools necessary to manage, maintain, and improve your health and wellbeing. 

About our Business

Valard Construction is Canada’s premier utility contractor providing comprehensive EPC+ (engineering, procurement, construction) and maintenance services to utilities, independent power producers, mining, oil and gas industries and rural electric associations. We have the capabilities, knowledge, and resources to take on any project, any size, any complexity, anywhere.  We are also part of Quanta Services, the largest electrical power contractor in North America.

Valard Construction is an equal opportunity employer.

Learn more

Visit us at www.valard.com and connect with us on our social media channels for our latest news, employee stories, community activities, and other updates.

* Depending on qualifications, the successful candidate may be offered a position at a more appropriate level.

* Applicants must have legal authorization to work in Canada with no restrictions.

* Valard Construction is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability.  Accommodation for applicants with disabilities is available on request during the recruitment process.

* We do not use automated tools to screen applications.  All hiring decisions involve human review.  This job posting is for an existing vacancy.