Principal Preconstruction

At Unispace, we create spaces that empower people and businesses to thrive. We are a global design-build partner delivering workplace and life sciences projects for some of the world's most innovative brands.

With over 500 people across four continents, we bring together strategy, design, project management, and delivery into one seamless experience. Our integrated approach enables us to move with agility, solve complex challenges, and deliver meaningful outcomes for our clients.

Our people are at the centre of everything we do. We foster a collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity, accountability, creativity, and continuous improvement. We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams and help us create better experiences for our clients and each other.

At Unispace, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects, work alongside talented global teams, and grow your career in an environment that encourages innovation and new ideas.

Role Profile

As a Principal Preconstruction professional based in New York, you will be a key leader in Unispace's design and build delivery model, driving the successful acquisition and initiation of complex projects across New York and the East-Coast of the US. This critical role involves leading and managing all preconstruction activities, from initial client engagement and concept development through to detailed cost planning, risk assessment, and successful project handover to the delivery team. You will be instrumental in translating client visions into viable, cost-effective, and constructible solutions.

Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• Strategic Bid Leadership & Management: Lead and oversee the entire preconstruction process for strategic opportunities, including developing comprehensive bid strategies, managing tender submissions, and ensuring alignment with client expectations and Unispace's capabilities. Drive client engagement and build strong relationships during the pursuit phase.
• Cost Management & Estimating Expertise: Prepare detailed cost estimates, budgets, and financial analyses for various project stages (concept, schematic, design development, construction documents). Conduct value engineering exercises to optimize costs without compromising design integrity or project performance.
• Risk & Opportunity Assessment: Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate preconstruction-specific risks, including site conditions, constructability challenges, long-lead items, regulatory compliance (local building codes), and market fluctuations. Identify opportunities to add value and enhance project delivery.
• Stakeholder Collaboration & Integration: Collaborate extensively with internal teams (Design, Strategy, Project Management, Operations, Procurement) and external partners (clients, subcontractors, consultants) to ensure seamless information flow, coordinated efforts, and integrated solutions from project inception.
• Commercial & Contract Review: Review and analyze commercial terms, scope definitions, and contractual requirements in client and subcontractor agreements, advising on commercial viability, risk allocation, and optimal procurement strategies.
• Market Intelligence & Supply Chain Engagement: Maintain a deep understanding of local market conditions in New York and the US, including labor costs, material pricing, and subcontractor capabilities. Engage with the supply chain to secure competitive bids and innovative solutions.
• Process Improvement & Innovation: Continuously refine and optimize preconstruction processes, tools, and methodologies to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and competitiveness. Contribute to the development of best practices within the global preconstruction team.
• Mentorship & Team Development: Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to junior preconstruction team members, fostering a culture of excellence, continuous learning, and professional growth.
• Reporting & Performance Analysis: Prepare clear, concise, and compelling reports for clients and senior management on project costs, schedules, risks, and overall preconstruction progress. Analyze bid performance and win rates to inform future strategies.

Skills & Experiences

• Proven experience (typically 8+ years) in a senior Preconstruction, Estimating, or Quantity Surveying role, with significant experience in the commercial real estate, design & build, or the general contracting sector.
• Strong understanding of all phases of the design and construction process, with a focus on commercial fit-out projects.
• Exceptional ability in detailed cost estimating, budget management, and value engineering.
• Demonstrated experience in identifying, assessing, and mitigating construction-related risks during the preconstruction phase.
• Expertise in reviewing and interpreting complex commercial contracts and technical specifications.
• Advanced proficiency in relevant estimating software and project management tools.
• Excellent negotiation, presentation, and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical and financial information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Strong analytical abilities and meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple complex pursuits simultaneously in a fast-paced, dynamic international environment.
• Relevant professional qualification (e.g. RICS, or equivalent qualification) is highly desirable.

What We Offer

In return, you will receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, including a pension, paid holiday leave, and travel opportunities across our global offices. Unispace values its employees and offers extensive rewards and recognition, career development, and a focus on well-being.

While we do support Hybrid and Flexible working where possible, there will be a requirement to travel to client-sites as well as to be in our New York Studio to collaborate with the team on a regular basis.

Join Us

If you are passionate about joining Unispace and contributing to some of the world's most recognisable commercial design projects, then please apply through our careers page.

• Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience and location

Base Pay Range


$180,000-$230,000 USD

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required.

We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to providing reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process and employment lifecycle where required by applicable law.
Inclusion & Diversity

At Unispace, we believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams, our culture, and the work we deliver for our clients. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with respect and has the opportunity to thrive.

Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations.