Preconstruction Manager

Valor Contracting provides general contracting, design build, construction management, and tilt-up concrete services across the upper Midwest and surrounding regions. We are committed to providing results, building trust, and operating with integrity.

About the Role

Preconstruction Manager

The Preconstruction Manager oversees the planning and estimating phases from project feasibility through final design, serving as a key link between design, budgeting, and execution teams. This position is responsible for all aspects of the estimating process—from conceptual estimates to the final project budget and ensures optimal constructability, value engineering, and risk management. These efforts support project delivery that meets schedule, budget, and client objectives. As a reliable partner to clients, design consultants, and internal stakeholders, the Preconstruction Manager establishes a solid foundation for project success prior to construction execution.

Position Logistics

• Location: Saint Louis Park, MN
• Work Type: Full Time, Exempt

Position Responsibilities:

Estimating & Budgeting

• Lead and manage cost estimating throughout all project phases, from conceptual and schematic design through design development and Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP).Prepare, maintain, and present comprehensive budgets—including general conditions, contingency, escalation, and fee—aligned with project scope, client goals, and market conditions.
• Conduct detailed quantity take-offs and pricing analysis using current market data, historical cost information, and vendor/subcontractor input.
• Update and reconcile estimates as design evolves, clearly communicating cost impacts and scope changes to stakeholders.

Design Collaboration & Value Engineering

• Partner with architects, engineers, and internal stakeholders to ensure design decisions align with budget schedule and constructability goals.
• Lead constructability reviews at key design milestones to identify risks, resolve potential conflicts, and improve project delivery efficiency.
• Recommend and evaluate value engineering alternatives to achieve cost savings without compromising quality, design intent, or operational functionality.

Procurement & Bid Management

• Develop bid packages and scopes of work for subcontractors and suppliers.
• Oversee subcontractor prequalification, bid solicitation, scope leveling, compliance review and award recommendations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with trade partners, leveraging market knowledge to support competitive pricing and high-quality performance.
• Contribute to construction phasing, logistics planning, and development of preliminary project schedules, including critical path milestones.
• Conduct feasibility studies and cost-schedule risk assessments to inform go/no-go decisions and early design direction.
• Identify and assess risks in early project phases and develop mitigation strategies
• Coordinate permitting timelines and early planning with municipalities and regulatory agencies.
• Serve as the primary preconstruction contact for clients during early project phases, building trust and ensuring transparent communication.
• Present budgets, cost analysis, value engineering options and recommendations to executives, clients, and development partners.
• Coordinate closely with project management and field operations to ensure a smooth handoff from preconstruction to execution.
• Maintain and update preconstruction records, cost databases, and historical benchmarks for future estimating accuracy.
• Participate in post-project reviews to compare estimated vs. actual costs, identifying opportunities for process and accuracy improvements.

General Responsibilities

• Perform other duties as assigned
• All employees are responsible for the general upkeep of work and shared spaces
• Punctual and regular attendance is required of all employees

We're Seeking Individuals Who Have:

• Strong understanding of construction methods, building codes, industrial construction practices, and materials, with the ability to apply this knowledge in early design and feasibility phases.
• Proficient in developing accurate cost estimates from conceptual through GMP, including all construction divisions, general conditions, contingencies, escalation, and fee.
• Ability to assess design documents for constructability and cost impact and recommend value-engineering solutions that maintain quality and design intent.
• Advanced in preparing bid packages, leveling subcontractor proposals, identifying scope gaps/overlaps, and ensuring complete and competitive pricing.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills; experienced working with clients, designers, subcontractors, and internal leaders to build alignment and trust.
• Strong understanding of construction cost components (labor, overhead, indirects, unit pricing, location cost factors) and estimating methodologies, with the ability to evaluate detailed cost data, variance reports, budgets, and risk factors.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suites & construction/estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, Procore, On-Screen Takeoff).

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field required
• 5+ years of experience in project management, preconstruction or estimating on multi-million dollar projects
• Experience in estimating and managing preconstruction activities across all scopes of work, gained through prior roles with general contractors required.

Total Rewards Approach

Our salary ranges are established based on a combination of market data, internal equity, and the unique characteristics of our organization such as our size, revenue, and industry. Within the range, individual pay is determined by multiple factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

At Valor Contracting, we’re proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package that supports your personal well-being, professional growth, and financial future.

Financial Wellbeing

• Competitive pay with ongoing performance review
• Role specific bonus programs
• Various supplemental insurance options
• Employee referral program
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
• Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Mental health resources & employee assistance programs
• Paid Time Off (PTO) plans and paid holidays
• Team-building and community engagement opportunities
• Employee recognition programs
• Regular team member feedback surveys to drive workplace improvements

Join Valor and take pride in the work you do and the team you do it with. With us, you'll find more than just a job - you'll find a place where your contributions matter, your growth is supported, and your potential is limitless. Together, we'll create spaces that inspire and empower.

Valor provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

Valor does not work with any third-party recruiters or agencies without a valid signed agreement and partnership with the Talent Acquisition Team.