The Role:

This role works collaboratively with the Engineering organization, as well as other organizations internal and external to NW Natural to enable successful delivery of assigned projects. This role will serve as a subject matter expert on PMO processes, tools, and deliverables to support other Engineering resources operating in a project management capacity. This role will also actively participate in identifying, assessing, and implementing process improvements within the PMO.

Day to Day:

• Responsible for driving the assigned project throughout all project phases from initiation, assess-planning, execution, and close, in accordance with the PMO best practices. Build a strong relationship with the project team, engineer managers, and project sponsors, escalating any issues thoughtfully and proactively.
• Lead the project creation process within PMO project management tool and obtain all required stakeholder approvals. Work with the project team to establish accurate project goals, scope of work, budget, and schedule.
• Responsible for overseeing project team and external consultants throughout the project lifecycle. Coordinate the building permit application process and required building department inspections. Oversee transmittals, submittals, and requests for information (RFI) processes. Ensure relevant stakeholder involvement in the review of drawings and technical specifications, ensuring relevant code compliance.
• Periodically work with the project team and stakeholders to identify, collect, and manage project potential risks and issues 
• Develop, manage, and update the project actual and forecast cost. Manage cost performance to both forecast and budget and conduct analyses to identify and remediate variances as needed.
• Assess, document, and communicate any changes in the project’s scope, cost, and schedule baseline. If required, manage the Change Order request/approval process in accordance with PMO change management best practices.
• Manage project communications, including meetings, status reports, monthly portfolio reviews, and ad hoc communications. Schedule and lead periodic project team meetings and deliver meeting minutes and action items as required. Present project status reports at routine monthly executive/project sponsor meetings. 
• Identify, procure, and manage project-related human resources. Provide all team members with clear guidance regarding tasks and deadlines. Work with project team members and resource managers to address and resolve any performance concerns.
• If external vendors, contractors, or resources are engaged on the project, assist purchasing with the development of request for proposal (RFP) scope documents for outside vendors. Coordinate the issuance of RFPs with NWN procurement team. Lead the review and evaluation of contractor responses and offers for services and materials. Assist in negotiation of contractor and supplier agreements. Work with NWN project engineer for the timely entry of purchase requisitions. 
• Negotiate and obtain approval as required for vendor change orders. Manage vendor schedules, deliverables, and cost according to their respective SOWs. Integrate vendor project information into the project plan. Ensure adequate touchpoints and communications exist between NW Natural sponsors, steering committees, and stakeholders and vendor project team members. Track, review, and provide guidance to the NWN project engineer regarding the accruals and payment of vendor invoices.
• Prepare and submit PMO required documentation throughout the project lifecycle process. Track, collect and organize all relevant project information in accordance with PMO change management best practices.

Come on your first day with:

PM2:
 

• Demonstrated success applying project management concepts and techniques across multiple, simultaneous projects
• Strong communication and presentation skills across all levels of the organization
• Demonstrated analytical skills, including problem solving and critical thinking, with attention to detail Ability to facilitate meetings and manage difficult conversations with tact and diplomacy
• Ability to gain and maintain credibility at all levels of the organization Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline preferred
• PMI or equivalent certification preferred 3+ years of engineering experience
• 5+ years of project management experience

PM3:

• In addition to PM2 requirements,
• Thorough knowledge of project and program management theories, models, and techniques
• Demonstrated success applying project management concepts and techniques across large, mission-critical projects/programs
• Master’s degree in an engineering discipline preferred PMI or equivalent certification preferred
• 7+ years of progressive project management leadership experience