Preconstruction Manager (Mechanical)

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

The Preconstruction Manager is responsible for leading the early planning, estimating, budgeting, design coordination, and risk evaluation of commercial mechanical construction projects. This role works closely with clients, architects, engineers, estimators, operations teams, subcontractors, and vendors to develop accurate budgets, evaluate constructability, and position projects for successful execution.

Projects may include HVAC, plumbing, mechanical piping, controls, retrofit, and design-build work across commercial, healthcare, education, industrial, institutional, and other complex facilities. The ideal candidate has a strong technical background in commercial mechanical systems and experience managing preconstruction efforts from conceptual design through final proposal and project handoff.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead preconstruction activities from initial client engagement through project turnover to operations.
• Participate in client and stakeholder meetings to understand project scope, goals, budget, and technical requirements.
• Prepare conceptual, ROM, design development, and detailed estimates for HVAC, plumbing, piping, and controls systems.
• Review narratives, schematic drawings, design development documents, and construction documents to develop accurate budgets.
• Evaluate mechanical system requirements and identify cost, schedule, constructability, and coordination risks.
• Develop preliminary system layouts and sketches to support estimating and early design decisions.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, subcontractors, and vendors throughout the preconstruction process.
• Review mechanical drawings, specifications, and technical documentation for completeness and constructability.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and recommend cost-effective solutions while maintaining project intent.
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and vendor pricing, scopes, and qualifications.
• Prepare technical proposals, presentations, scope narratives, and preconstruction reports.
• Support procurement planning, long-lead equipment strategies, scheduling, and project logistics.
• Coordinate mechanical systems with architectural, structural, electrical, fire protection, and other disciplines.
• Maintain budget alignment as designs progress and communicate cost impacts to project stakeholders.
• Support project handoff to operations and provide technical assistance during startup, commissioning, or early construction when needed.
• Mentor and guide junior estimators and preconstruction staff in estimating, risk management, and mechanical construction best practices.
• Maintain a strong focus on safety, quality, and client satisfaction throughout all preconstruction activities.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in commercial HVAC, plumbing, mechanical contracting, estimating, or preconstruction.
• Strong knowledge of commercial mechanical systems, including HVAC, piping, plumbing, and controls.
• Experience developing conceptual and detailed construction estimates.
• Strong understanding of mechanical system design, constructability, and installation methods.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, electrical, fire protection, and mechanical drawings.
• Knowledge of piping and ductwork sizing, system layout, and equipment selection.
• Experience coordinating subcontractor and vendor pricing.
• Strong understanding of budgeting, procurement, scheduling, and project risk management.
• Excellent analytical, communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple preconstruction efforts simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred.
• Experience with design-build and negotiated mechanical construction projects.
• Proficiency with estimating software such as Trimble, QuickPen, AutoBid, or similar platforms.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office.
• Familiarity with Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Navisworks, or BIM coordination tools.
• Knowledge of IBC, IMC, IPC, IECC, IFGC, ASHRAE, and SMACNA standards.
• Experience with energy efficiency, sustainability, and high-performance building systems.
• LEED, DBIA, OSHA 10/30, or estimating-related certifications are a plus.