Construction Project Assistant

Project / Construction Administrative Support

Job Description:

Location: Greater Chicago Area, IL – North/Northwest Suburbs

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–3:30 PM

Work Type: 100% onsite

Start Date: As soon as possible

The Opportunity

A well-established construction firm is seeking a highly organized, proactive Project / Construction Administrative Support professional to join its team. This is a hands-on, onsite position supporting an active construction project and working closely with the Project Manager, ownership, subcontractors, vendors, and other project stakeholders.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being at the center of a busy operation, keeping projects organized, following up on important details, and helping a Project Manager stay ahead of deadlines and day-to-day needs. Previous construction experience is preferred, but the firm is open to a capable, technically inclined candidate who is eager to learn the industry.

The position will initially be based at an active jobsite in the northern Chicago suburbs, with the expectation of transitioning to another nearby project upon completion.

Key Responsibilities

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• Maintain daily project logs and track subcontractor and trade hours onsite
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• Document meetings, project activities, notes, photos, and other job records
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• Follow up with subcontractors and vendors regarding quotes, proposals, pricing, and outstanding information
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• Research and contact prospective subcontractors and vendors as needed
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• Assist with estimating, quantity takeoffs, and construction-document markups
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• Scan, organize, file, and maintain project documentation
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• Provide day-to-day administrative and project support to the Project Manager and ownership
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• Help keep project information organized, current, and readily accessible
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• Open the jobsite approximately two mornings per week and communicate direction to trades as needed
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• Occasionally handle small pickups, deliveries, or travel between project and office locations
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What We're Looking For

Strong organization and administrative skills: You should be comfortable managing documentation, maintaining accurate records, following up consistently with vendors and trades, and anticipating the needs of a busy Project Manager.

Solid computer aptitude: Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and email is required. Experience with construction software is helpful but not necessary. Training will be provided on the firm's construction management, timekeeping/accounting, and PDF markup platforms, including Bluebeam.

Confident communication skills: This position regularly interacts with tradespeople, subcontractors, vendors, project management, ownership, and clients. Fluent English and the ability to communicate professionally and directly are required.

Successful candidates will be proactive, dependable, coachable, detail-oriented, and comfortable receiving direct instruction in a fast-moving construction environment.

Additional Requirements

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• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
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• Ability to walk throughout an active construction site
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• Ability to lift approximately 30 lbs. when needed
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• Flexibility to occasionally arrive slightly before 7:00 AM when responsible for opening the jobsite
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• Construction industry experience is preferred but not required for candidates with strong transferable skills and the ability to learn quickly
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Compensation & Benefits

The compensation is competitive, with some flexibility depending on experience and qualifications.

The firm also offers a strong benefits package, including:

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• 100% employer-paid employee premiums for medical, dental, and vision coverage
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• Multiple medical plan options, including PPO, HMO, and HSA-compatible plans
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• Health benefits beginning the first of the month following 30 days of employment
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• 401(k) plan with a 4% employer match following the applicable eligibility period
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• Potential discretionary employer retirement/profit-sharing and cash balance plan contributions
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• Paid holidays and PTO
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• Company-provided equipment
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• Company phone or phone reimbursement
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• Mileage/gas reimbursement for required business travel
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Why Join?

This is an opportunity to become an important part of a close-knit construction team where your work has a direct impact on the success of the project. You'll gain exposure to multiple aspects of construction operations—from project documentation and subcontractor coordination to estimating and field activities—while learning industry-specific systems and processes.

For someone looking to build a career in construction administration or project coordination, this role provides valuable hands-on experience, significant interaction with project leadership, and the opportunity to develop a broad understanding of how construction projects are managed from the field.