Damage Prevention Project Manager

The Damage Prevention Project Manager is responsible for leading and managing damage prevention and utility coordination programs that reduce risk to underground infrastructure and support safe construction activities. This role oversees projects from initiation through completion, ensuring compliance with client requirements, regulatory standards, and industry best practices while delivering projects on time, within budget, and to SAM quality standards.

Serving as the primary liaison between SAM, utility owners, contractors, municipalities, and regulatory agencies, the Damage Prevention Project Manager leads both field and office teams, supports client relationships, and contributes to the growth and development of SAM’s damage prevention services.

Key Responsibilities

Lead damage prevention and utility coordination projects from kickoff through closeout, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, budget, and quality standards

Manage project proposals, contracts, budgets, schedules, invoicing, and financial performance

Oversee field operations related to utility locating, verification, documentation, and risk mitigation activities

Ensure compliance with applicable damage prevention regulations, one-call requirements, client standards, and industry best practices

Coordinate with utility owners, contractors, engineers, municipalities, and internal teams to prevent utility conflicts and damages

Monitor and report project financials, including Accounts Receivable (AR), Work in Progress (WIP), and billing cycles

Prepare and present project updates, reports, and metrics to clients and stakeholders

Support business development efforts by identifying opportunities, expanding client relationships, and contributing to proposal development

Plan staffing needs, allocate resources, and manage multiple concurrent damage prevention programs

Mentor and support staff development while promoting a strong safety and compliance culture

Represent SAM at client meetings, industry events, and damage prevention forums

Previous experience in damage prevention, utility coordination, SUE, construction, or underground utility management in a project management or leadership capacity required

Strong understanding of damage prevention practices, utility conflict mitigation, and applicable regulations and standards required

Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, schedules, subcontractors, and client relationships

Experience working with utility owners, one-call systems, contractors, and public agencies

Proficiency with utility data management platforms, GIS, CAD, or related documentation systems

Proven leadership, communication, and organizational skills with a safety-first mindset

Health and Wellness Benefits: BlueCross BlueShield health insurance coverage begins the month after your hire date, Free Vision + Dental plans for employees, company-paid premiums for Long-term disability/Life Insurance (with HSA + FSA plans), SAM Cares program focused on holistic well-being

Financial Benefits: Employee Referral Rewards Program of $1K, $2,500 or $5K, Fidelity retirement plans with a 5% company match, tuition reimbursement, optional cellphone stipend

Work-Life Balance: Paid time off including vacation/sick/holidays, parental leave to support families

Professional Development: Customized career development plan for licensing and certifications, Project Manager Business Academy, CAD Training Program, Individual Development Plans/Career Check-Ins, SAM WINS - our initiative for women-focused leadership and development, Milestone Anniversary Recognition, SAMbassador mentorship program

Perks and Discounts: Access to “Perks at Work” for discounts on wellness + travel + leisure and everyday purchases, company-sponsored events, free office snacks

Culture and Awards/Achievements: SAM Named 2026 Top Workplace USA for the fourth Year; 2026 SAM Ranks No. 92 on ENR Top 500 Design Firms