Assistant Project Manager, Preconstruction

Job Description

Job Description

Who are we?

Volumetric Building Companies ( VBC ) is a vertically integrated global volumetric construction leader, headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. with locations across the United States and in Europe in the UK, Poland and Serbia.

Utilizing our technology-enabled design and engineering model, precision-driven manufacturing capabilities, and project-proven modular construction expertise, the company’s focus is on providing high quality, sustainably produced buildings in less time across varied market sectors including housing and hospitality.

As we grow, we are continually and very selectively adding top talent to our team. Our engaging culture is one that promotes teamwork, innovation, continuous learning, open and candid communications, and respect and support for one another, and for the communities in which we operate. 

If you think you are one of the best at what you do and want to join us on our journey to build the future and improve lives , then we’d love to hear from you!

About the role

The Preconstruction Assistant Project Manager will be a member of VBC’s U.S. Project Delivery Team and will support the planning and development of projects from early concept and design through project handoff to the execution team. Working closely with Project Managers, Estimating, Design, Procurement, Manufacturing, and other cross-functional teams, this role will help establish project scope, schedule, budget, and execution strategies to position projects for successful delivery.

This role is ideal for someone with foundational experience in the AEC, construction, engineering, or manufacturing industries who is ready to take the next step in their career. The successful candidate will be highly organized, detail-oriented, collaborative, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment while developing the skills necessary to grow into a Project Manager role.

Key Responsibilities

Preconstruction & Project Planning

• Support the development of projects from early concepts through design development and transition to project execution.
• Assist Project Managers with establishing project scope, schedule, budget, and key project milestones.
• Review contract documents, drawings, specifications, and other project documentation to understand project requirements.
• Assist with constructability reviews and identify potential design, cost, schedule, and execution risks.
• Support development and maintenance of project execution plans and preconstruction deliverables.
• Assist with identifying project assumptions, exclusions, constraints, and potential scope gaps.
• Participate in project kickoff, design review, and preconstruction meetings.

Estimating & Budget Support

• Support the review and development of project budgets and cost estimates.
• Assist with tracking design development and scope changes that may impact project cost.
• Coordinate with Estimating and Procurement teams to validate pricing, quantities, and material requirements.
• Assist with value engineering exercises and identification of cost-saving opportunities.
• Support preparation of budget updates, cost reports, and other financial project documentation.

Design & Document Coordination

• Coordinate with internal and external design teams to track project design progress and deliverables.
• Review architectural and engineering drawings for completeness, coordination, and alignment with project requirements.
• Assist with managing RFIs, design clarifications, and other project correspondence during preconstruction.
• Maintain current drawings, specifications, and project documentation within VBC’s project management systems.
• Track design changes and communicate potential impacts to scope, schedule, budget, and manufacturing.

Schedule & Procurement Planning

• Assist with development and maintenance of project schedules from design through manufacturing and construction.
• Track project milestones, deliverables, approvals, and dependencies.
• Identify and communicate potential schedule risks, delays, and areas requiring escalation.
• Support procurement planning and tracking, with particular focus on long-lead materials and critical project components.
• Coordinate with Procurement, Manufacturing, and Project Delivery teams to ensure project requirements are understood and achievable.

Cross-Functional Project Coordination

• Develop strong working relationships with Project Managers, Project Architects, Systems, Estimating, Procurement, Manufacturing, and other internal teams.
• Support communication and coordination across multiple disciplines to ensure project requirements are aligned.
• Participate in project meetings and prepare and distribute meeting minutes and action items.
• Track open issues, decisions, deliverables, and action items through resolution.
• Assist in preparing project status updates and reporting project health to Project Management leadership.

Project Handoff & Continuous Improvement

• Support the transition of projects from preconstruction into project execution and manufacturing.
• Ensure project scope, budget, schedule, design documentation, procurement requirements, and key risks are clearly communicated during handoff.
• Assist with identifying lessons learned and opportunities to improve VBC’s preconstruction and project delivery processes.
• Contribute to standardization, process improvement, and operational efficiency initiatives.
• Develop the knowledge and project management skills necessary to independently manage projects in the future.

Communication & Professional Development

• Represent VBC internally and externally in a manner that reflects the company’s brand, values, and commitment to excellence.
• Maintain clear, professional communication with clients, consultants, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
• Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Demonstrate a willingness to learn, take ownership, and progressively assume greater responsibility.

About you

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, architecture, engineering, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in construction, architecture, engineering, manufacturing, project coordination, estimating, or a related AEC environment; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Demonstrated ability to read and understand architectural and engineering drawings.
• Basic understanding of construction processes, project schedules, budgets, and contract documents.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with individuals at all levels of an organization.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Project.
• Experience with project management or industry-specific software such as SAP, BIM 360, Smartsheet, Procore, or similar platforms preferred.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively within a cross-functional team.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and follow-through skills.
• Positive, proactive attitude with a demonstrated desire to grow into a project management leadership role.

Equal Opportunity

VBC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

We offer

• Highly competitive pay, benefits program, and flexible time-off programs
• 401(k) program with employer matching
• Employee referral programs with charitable donations
• Day of Giving program to volunteer at community charities

VBC is an equal opportunity employer