Senior Project Manager (Grants, Real Estate, Construction)
ABOUT US
At the Saint Paul Port Authority, we are dedicated to enhancing our community through innovative projects that increase jobs and tax base, drive sustainable and equitable development, and promote river commerce. With statewide economic development authority, we manage a diverse portfolio that includes four public river terminals and 17 inland business centers. Our work spans infrastructure development, land development, and environmental stewardship, supporting long-term economic vitality and community development across Saint Paul and the region.THE POSITION
The Senior Project Manager plays a critical role in advancing complex infrastructure, redevelopment, and environmental remediation projects by identifying, securing, and administering grant funding. This position leads the full project and grant lifecycle—from evaluating funding opportunities and preparing competitive grant applications to managing compliance, reporting, and reimbursement for awarded funds.In addition, the Senior Project Manager provides comprehensive project management support for multi-stakeholder initiatives focused on harbor management, marine infrastructure improvements, brownfield remediation, and industrial land redevelopment. The role involves coordinating consultants and internal teams; helping define project scopes, schedules, and budgets; tracking progress and risks, and supporting delivery through design, construction, and closeout.
This position offers the opportunity to directly shape transformational public investments by stewarding critical funding resources that advance long-term economic, environmental, and community benefits.
THE IDEAL FIT
You will stand out as a candidate and be successful in this role by demonstrating that you are a self-starter and natural problem solver with a high level of technical and social intelligence. You bring demonstrated experience with project management and with identifying grant opportunities, preparing successful grant applications, and managing awarded grants across multiple funding sources. You must be organized, accountable and adaptive, with the ability to independently execute efficient project delivery. You must possess a strong desire to carry out the Port Authority’s mission and work collaboratively with diverse project teams and external partners.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Grant Management & Funding Strategy:- Identify, evaluate, and pursue federal, state, regional, and private grant opportunities aligned with Port Authority priorities.
- Serve as Development team lead for EPA Revolving Loan Fund, managing compliance, reporting, and stakeholder coordination to support brownfield cleanup and redevelopment in close coordination with the Port Authority’s finance team.
- Lead or support development of competitive grant applications, including project narratives, budgets, schedules, and supporting documentation.
- Coordinate internally and with external partners to assemble grant materials and secure required approvals.
- Administer awarded grants, ensuring compliance with funding agreements, procurement requirements, labor standards, and reporting obligations.
- Manage grant reimbursements, cash flow tracking, and audit documentation in coordination with finance staff.
- Monitor grant performance metrics and prepare progress reports for funders, senior leadership, and governing boards.
General Project Management:
- Align project scopes and schedules with grant eligibility, funding constraints, and award conditions.
- Track grant-funded expenditures and reimbursement timelines to support accurate budgeting and cash flow.
- Create and manage project schedules, track status, and identify critical path items.
- Estimate project costs, secure funding, and monitor budgets and reimbursements.
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
- Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies.
- Provide updates and recommendations to senior management and present at board meetings.
- Coordinate with communications team on community engagement efforts and project update meetings.
- Hire and manage consultants, coordinate entitlement processes, liability assurances, and secure permits/approvals.
- Support site acquisition, lease negotiations, and river tenant relationships.
- Strengthen tenant relationships and address emergency needs as they arise.
QUALIFICATIONS
- 10 years of progressive experience in project management, including demonstrated experience with grant-funded capital projects
- Proven success identifying funding opportunities and securing grants for infrastructure, redevelopment, environmental, or economic development projects
- Bachelor’s degree in real estate, public administration, engineering, construction management, geology or related fields preferred
- Professional Engineer, Real Estate License, or grant-related certification or training preferred
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES
- Strong understanding of grant compliance, reimbursement, and reporting requirements.
- Ability to translate complex technical projects into clear, compelling grant narratives.
- Experience coordinating with funding agencies, auditors, and regulatory bodies.
- Proficiency in spreadsheet and project management software.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, with experience producing grant applications and funder reports.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
WORKING AT THE PORT AUTHORITY
At the Saint Paul Port Authority, we are a small but mighty team. If you’re interested in wearing multiple hats and working for a fast-paced, results-driven organization, this is the place for you. You will be joined by colleagues who are committed to being collaborative, innovative, and risk-taking, while always working with integrity.The Saint Paul Port Authority offers a best-in-class benefits package focused on supporting the health and wellness of our employees. We believe in work-life balance with an environment that offers flexibility. This includes generous health and retirement plans and paid time off. Parking in downtown Saint Paul is provided.
The Saint Paul Port Authority is committed to building a diverse team that reflects our community. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Review of applications will begin February 13, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.
Apply online at: Senior Project Manager - Saint Paul Port Authority
