Preconstruction Manager

Job Description

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a Preconstruction Manager to support project development and execution across a variety of construction projects. This role is instrumental in bridging business development and project execution, overseeing preconstruction activities from initial project evaluation and conceptual design through estimating, scheduling, and bid preparation.

Working closely with Project Managers, Business Development, customers, and design teams, the Preconstruction Manager will help develop project strategies, prepare accurate cost estimates, identify potential risks, and deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions. This is an opportunity for an experienced construction professional to take ownership of preconstruction activities, strengthen client relationships, and contribute to the successful development and execution of projects.

Key Responsibilities

Preconstruction Planning & Estimating

• Lead and coordinate preconstruction activities for multiple projects, including due diligence, conceptual design, scheduling, budgeting, and detailed estimating.
• Visit proposed project sites to assess existing conditions, identify construction risks, and evaluate potential impacts on design, schedule, and cost.
• Develop and manage conceptual and detailed cost estimates, estimate strategies, and project budgets.
• Collaborate with Project Managers and design teams to evaluate project requirements, coordinate design efforts, and identify opportunities for value engineering, life-cycle cost savings, and alternative solutions.
• Prepare and manage bid packages, including invitations to bid, scopes of work, bid forms, and other supporting documentation.
• Review, analyze, and qualify subcontractor and supplier bids to ensure completeness and alignment with project scope.
• Coordinate peer reviews of project estimates to promote accuracy, consistency, and quality.

Business Development & Sales Support

• Partner with Business Development and Project Execution teams to evaluate qualified leads, advance project opportunities, and maintain a strong project pipeline.
• Participate in customer and design team meetings to understand project goals, expectations, and overall vision.
• Contribute to project pursuit strategies, conceptual designs, preliminary budgets, schedules, and technical sales proposals.
• Prepare technical specifications and cost information to support proposal development and client presentations.
• Maintain accurate and timely updates to customer opportunity and lead information within the company's CRM system.

Client Relationships & Team Collaboration

• Build and maintain strong client relationships through responsive communication, technical expertise, and a commitment to delivering value.
• Work cross-functionally with Project Managers, Business Development, design teams, and other stakeholders to align project objectives and execution strategies.
• Ensure preconstruction deliverables meet customer expectations while supporting company standards, goals, and performance benchmarks.

Process Improvement & Team Development

• Identify and implement opportunities to improve preconstruction processes, estimating practices, and project workflows.
• Develop and maintain estimating tools, cost databases, project databases, templates, and other resources to support department efficiency and consistency.
• Mentor and support Assistant Preconstruction Managers, Project Engineers, Project Technicians, and other team members.
• Contribute to departmental initiatives and broader organizational objectives.

Qualifications & Experience

• Approximately 4–7 years of experience in preconstruction, construction management, estimating, project engineering, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or a related discipline preferred; equivalent practical experience may be considered.
• Demonstrated experience with construction estimating, project budgeting, preconstruction planning, and bid analysis.
• Ability to evaluate complex project requirements, assess construction risks, and develop practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams, managing multiple priorities, and supporting projects of varying size and complexity.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to interpret technical information, evaluate data, and make sound, fact-based decisions.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with customers, project teams, and other stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly when managing estimates, project documentation, schedules, and competing deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor team members, share technical knowledge, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Willingness to travel to project sites and attend customer and design team meetings as needed.