Director of Preconstruction (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill Area)

Director of Preconstruction

Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

Industry: Commercial Construction

About the Opportunity

A leading commercial general contractor is seeking an experienced Director of Preconstruction to lead and develop its preconstruction function in Raleigh, NC. This is a key leadership opportunity for a construction professional who can combine technical estimating expertise with strategic planning, client engagement and team development.

The successful candidate will play a significant role in shaping projects from initial concept through to construction, working closely with clients, architects, engineers and internal project teams to establish accurate budgets, develop effective construction strategies and ensure projects are positioned for success.

This is an opportunity to join an established contractor with a strong reputation for delivering complex commercial construction projects, while helping drive the continued growth and development of its regional operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Preconstruction Leadership: Lead and oversee all preconstruction activities, establishing consistent processes, standards and best practices across the team.
• Estimating & Budgeting: Direct the preparation of conceptual estimates, detailed cost plans, budgets and GMP proposals, ensuring accuracy and alignment with project requirements.
• Team Development: Lead, mentor and develop preconstruction managers, estimators and other team members, fostering a collaborative and high-performing department.
• Client Relationships: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, developers, architects, engineers and key project stakeholders.
• Project Planning: Oversee the development of project schedules, phasing plans, logistics strategies and procurement approaches during the preconstruction phase.
• Value Engineering: Identify opportunities to improve project value, reduce costs and enhance constructability without compromising quality or the client's objectives.
• Design Coordination: Work closely with design teams to review drawings and specifications, identify potential issues and provide practical construction-led recommendations.
• Risk Management: Identify and assess project risks, including budget, schedule, design and procurement considerations, implementing strategies to mitigate potential issues.
• Subcontractor & Supplier Engagement: Develop and maintain relationships with key trade partners, oversee bid solicitation and ensure competitive, comprehensive subcontractor pricing.
• Business Development: Support regional growth through client engagement, project pursuits, proposal development and participation in presentations and interviews.
• Operational Collaboration: Work closely with project management and field operations teams to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction into construction.
• Financial Oversight: Monitor estimating performance, cost trends, market conditions and project financial targets to support informed decision-making.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering or a related field preferred.
• Significant experience in commercial construction, with a strong background in preconstruction, estimating and cost management.
• Previous experience leading a preconstruction department or managing a team of preconstruction professionals.
• Demonstrated experience overseeing budgets, conceptual estimates, detailed estimates and GMP development for commercial construction projects.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, building systems, design coordination, scheduling and project delivery methods.
• Experience with Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), design-build and other collaborative project delivery methods.
• Established relationships with clients, architects, engineers, subcontractors and other industry professionals.
• Proven ability to manage multiple pursuits and projects simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines.
• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation and presentation skills.
• Commercial awareness, with the ability to balance client expectations, project requirements and financial objectives.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented approach with a commitment to quality, collaboration and continuous improvement.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive base salary, commensurate with experience.
• Performance-based bonus opportunity.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to take on a senior leadership position within an established commercial contractor.
• The ability to influence preconstruction strategy, develop a high-performing team and contribute to regional business growth.
• A collaborative working environment with opportunities for long-term career development.

Apply Now

If you are an experienced preconstruction leader looking to take the next step in your career, we would welcome a confidential conversation to discuss this opportunity in Raleigh, NC.