Project Manager-LAWA (Los Angeles World Airports)

About Burns 

Burns is a nationally respected provider of specialized engineering services, bringing highly technical, sought-after engineering expertise to complex transportation and critical infrastructure projects.

For more than 50 years, we have built our reputation on outstanding client service. Ranked a Top Workplace and ENR Top 500 Design Firm, we are personally invested in helping our clients achieve their goals, sharing in their passions, and successfully guiding them through the challenges of complex projects using our no surprises Burns Unique Client Experience.

We are seeking a Project Manager  to join our Aviation Technology team in Los Angeles, CA. 

Position Summary:

The Project Manager will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and delivering the replacement of LAWA’s Access Control and Alarm Monitoring System ( ACAMS ) and upgrade of the current video management and storage systems, while maintaining airport operations and regulatory compliance. Responsibilities include project governance; stakeholder coordination with airport operations, public safety & security, airport police, IT and regulatory agencies; management of scope, schedule, budget, and risk; oversight of system architecture, integration, testing, and commissioning; coordination of phased implementation and system cutovers; support of procurement and vendor management. The PM will also oversee the development of RFPs and coordination with LAWA Information Management & Technology group program management office.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end project management for the replacement of the Access Control and Alarm Monitoring System (ACAMS) and upgrades to video management and storage systems


• Establish and maintain project governance, including reporting, documentation, and adherence to LAWA standards and procedures


• Coordinate cross-functional stakeholders including Airport Operations, Public Safety & Security, Airport Police, IT, and external regulatory agencies


• Manage project scope, schedule, budget, and risk to ensure successful delivery within operational constraints of an active airport environment


• Oversee system architecture, design coordination, and integration across access control, alarm monitoring, and video management platforms


• Direct system testing, commissioning, and validation to ensure performance, reliability, and compliance with regulatory requirements


• Plan and execute phased implementation strategies and system cutovers to minimize disruption to ongoing airport operations


• Support procurement activities, including development of RFPs, bid evaluations, and contract award processes


• Manage vendors, consultants, and system integrators to ensure alignment with project goals, timelines, and quality standards


• Collaborate with LAWA Information Management & Technology (IMT) and Program Management Office (PMO) to align with enterprise systems, cybersecurity standards, and governance frameworks


• Identify and mitigate project risks, ensuring compliance with aviation, safety, and security regulations


• Provide regular project updates, reporting, and executive-level communications to key stakeholders

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Information Systems, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)


• 8–15+ years of experience in project management, with a focus on large-scale infrastructure, security systems, or technology integration projects


• Proven experience delivering complex, multi-stakeholder projects in highly regulated environments (aviation, transportation, public sector, or critical infrastructure)


• Demonstrated experience managing access control, alarm monitoring, CCTV/video management systems, or similar physical security technologies


• Strong understanding of system integration, network infrastructure, and cybersecurity considerations for enterprise-level platforms


• Experience managing projects within active, 24/7 operational environments with minimal disruption (e.g., airports, hospitals, transit systems)


• Familiarity with public procurement processes, including RFP development, bid evaluation, and contract management


• Experience managing vendors, system integrators, and multidisciplinary project teams


• Knowledge of relevant codes, standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., TSA, FAA, DHS, or similar governing bodies)


• Strong project controls experience, including scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and reporting


• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to interface with executive leadership and technical teams


• Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) and standard reporting platforms


• Experience working with or within LAWA, or other large hub airport authorities (e.g., LAX modernization programs) is preferred