Position Summary
The Pre-Construction Manager plays a critical role in the early phases of a construction project, leading planning, budgeting, and coordination efforts prior to the start of field operations. This position ensures that projects are thoroughly defined, competitively priced, and strategically positioned for successful execution. The role serves as a bridge between estimating, design, ownership, and field operations.
This role is essential to setting projects up for success by balancing cost, design, and constructability before breaking ground.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILIITES
Pre-Construction Planning
- Lead the pre-construction phase from initial concept through project handoff to operations.
- Develop and manage project budgets, schedules, and logistics plans.
- Identify project risks, constraints, and opportunities early in the process.
- Establish preliminary construction schedules and phasing plans.
Estimating & Cost Management
- Prepare detailed cost estimates, conceptual budgets, and GMP proposals.
- Solicit, review, and analyze subcontractor and supplier bids.
- Perform quantity take-offs and cost analyses.
- Maintain historical cost data and market pricing knowledge.
Design Coordination
- Collaborate with architects, engineers, and consultants during design development.
- Provide constructability reviews and value engineering recommendations.
- Ensure design documents align with budget, schedule, and project goals.
- Participate in design meetings and coordinate drawing reviews.
Procurement Strategy
- Develop bid packages and scopes of work.
- Identify qualified subcontractors and manage the bidding process.
- Analyze bids and assist in subcontractor selection.
- Support contract negotiations and procurement schedules.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as a primary point of contact during pre-construction.
- Present budgets, schedules, and project strategies to clients.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, design teams, and internal stakeholders.
Schedule Development
- Create conceptual and detailed pre-construction schedules.
- Coordinate with project managers and superintendents for sequencing input.
- Identify long-lead items and critical path activities.
Project Handoff
- Ensure a seamless transition from pre-construction to operations.
- Compile and transfer all project documentation, budgets, and assumptions.
- Participate in kickoff meetings with field teams.
Other Duties
- This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
QUALIFICATIONS
- BS degree in construction management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- 3 to 10+ years of experience in pre-construction, estimating, or project management within the construction industry.
- Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and building systems.
- Experience with conceptual estimating and GMP project delivery.
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- High attention to detail and organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Strong negotiation and decision-making skills
WORK ENVIORONMENT
- Office-based with frequent collaboration meetings
- Occasional site visits during all phases of construction
- Fast-paced environment with deadline-driven deliverables
Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s) and Success Metrics
- Accuracy of estimates vs. final project cost
- Successful project buyout and subcontractor coverage
- Client satisfaction and repeat business
- Smooth transition to construction phase
- Effective risk identification and mitigation
Preferred Education and Experience
- 3–5+ years of experience in commercial construction or general trades
- Experience working on active commercial construction job sites
- Familiarity with architectural, MEP, and furniture installation drawings
- Working knowledge of construction terminology, materials, methods, and safety standards
- Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment
- Flexibility to work varying shifts or extended hours when project schedules require.
- Must have a valid driver’s license, with no more than two moving violations or a record of a DUI within the past 7 years.
Other Duties
- Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Pay: $90,000.00 - $115,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Experience:
- Construction estimating: 5 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
