Assistant Project Manager - On-the-job training
About the EmployerMitchell Design Build (MDB) is a leading integrated design-build construction firm in Rochester and Western New York, delivering innovative commercial, industrial, retail, and office building solutions since 1983. As the region’s only true design-build company, we streamline projects from concept through completion by combining in-house architecture and construction expertise, fostering collaboration, efficiency, and quality on every job. We are committed to supporting transitioning service members through the DoD SkillBridge program by providing hands-on experience in project coordination and construction leadership, with exposure to real-world operations and the potential for future career opportunities.Position OverviewThe SkillBridge Assistant Project Manager (APM) is a training-focused, hands-on role designed to prepare transitioning service members for civilian careers in construction project management. Under the guidance of experienced Project Managers, the SkillBridge participant will learn how to plan, coordinate, and oversee residential and commercial construction projects while maintaining budget, schedule, safety, and quality standards.This role emphasizes progressive responsibility, exposure to real-world projects, and the development of transferable leadership, organizational, and technical skills.
Training ObjectivesBy the end of the SkillBridge program, the participant will be able to:• Understand the full lifecycle of a construction project from pre-construction through closeout• Assist with project planning, scheduling, and coordination• Communicate effectively with subcontractors, vendors, inspectors, and clients• Apply construction safety standards and quality control practices• Translate military leadership and operational experience into civilian project management competenciesKey Training Activities & ResponsibilitiesUnder supervision and mentorship, the SkillBridge participant will:• Collaborate with engineers, architects, and internal teams to review project specifications• Assist with subcontractor and vendor coordination and contract documentation• Support permitting and licensing processes with local authorities• Review and track shop drawings and submittals• Help determine project resource needs (labor, materials, equipment) within budget parameters• Assist in developing construction schedules and monitoring milestone completion• Track material procurement and address delivery or supply issues• Participate in jobsite visits to observe construction operations and safety practices• Support supervision of trades and field personnel• Monitor project progress and assist with written status reports• Learn and apply OSHA-aligned safety standards and jobsite compliance requirements• Support general construction oversight and coordination tasksSkills & Tools ExposureDuring the program, participants may gain experience with:• Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook)• Project management and scheduling software• Estimating processes and software (introductory exposure)• AutoCAD (introductory exposure, if applicable)Mentorship & Supervision• SkillBridge participants will be supervised by experienced Mitchell Design Build leadership staff and SkillBridge Program Director – Livingston Associates.• Weekly check-ins to review progress, learning objectives, and skill development• Gradual increase in responsibility based on performance and competencyIdeal Candidate Profile• Transitioning service member with 3–5 years of service in roles such as:o Army: Engineer, Construction, Logistics, Facilities, or Operations MOSo Air Force: Civil Engineer, Engineering, Logistics, or Operations AFSCo Navy/USMC: Seabees, Engineering, Facilities, Maintenance, or Operations rates/MOS• Experience coordinating personnel, equipment, materials, or facilities projects, including mission planning, site coordination, or infrastructure support.• Strong ability to organize tasks, manage timelines, and communicate clearly across teams and leadership levels.• Hands-on problem solver who can adjust plans, overcome constraints, and keep operations moving forward.• Familiar with basic administrative and tracking systems (Microsoft Office, scheduling tools, maintenance or project logs).• Demonstrated leadership and accountability, including supervising junior personnel, tasking teams, or managing work efforts.• Comfortable working in fast-paced, evolving environments, including job sites and office settings.• Maintains a high standard of professionalism when working with clients, subcontractors, inspectors, and teammates.• Interested in translating military experience into a long-term civilian career in construction project management, with advancement into Project Manager or leadership roles.Post-SkillBridge Employment PathwayParticipants successfully completing the SkillBridge program may be evaluated for full-time employment.• Anticipated Salary: $52,000 - $60,000 (based on performance and skills obtained)• Benefits: health care, 401K, paid time off, and discretionary profit sharing
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Interview prep for this program▸
- ▸ "How many of your past SkillBridge interns received full-time offers?" — a serious program knows the number.
- ▸ "Who will my day-to-day mentor be, and what does week one look like?"
- ▸ "The listing says 91 - 120 days — can that flex to my approved window if my command shortens it?"
- ▸ "Is relocation expected for a full-time offer, or can I convert where I am?"
- ✓ Your projected start window and separation date (from your profile)
- ✓ Your command's approval status — even "packet drafted" signals you're serious
- ✓ Your civilian-translated resume bullets (generate them here)
- ✓ A written training-plan ask — you'll need it for your packet anyway