Director of Preconstruction

Raymond Search Group • Kansas City, MO

8d

About The Position

The Estimating Section Manager leads the preconstruction and estimating function for water and wastewater infrastructure projects across the DFW and greater southwest region. This is a leadership role focused on building high-performing teams, driving profitable growth, and delivering outstanding preconstruction outcomes aligned with Burns & McDonnell's core values.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, construction, or a related field (applicable experience may substitute)
• 10+ years of estimating or preconstruction experience on water and/or wastewater projects preferred
• Previous leadership or management experience preferred
• Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to present complex information clearly to all audiences
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); Bluebeam experience preferred
• Familiarity with estimating software; HCSS HeavyBid, Agtek, or PlanSwift experience a plus

Responsibilities

• Lead, direct, and develop the estimating section, ensuring efficient staff utilization and billable goal achievement
• Implement company programs and initiatives; manage change effectively within the section
• Manage section budgets and expenditures
• Own overall pricing for Water projects in the DFW and greater southwest region
• Prepare and analyze cost models across delivery methods including design-bid-build and collaborative delivery
• Ensure estimates are complete — covering direct costs, indirect costs, design costs, and general conditions
• Lead preconstruction strategy meetings and coordinate preliminary construction schedules
• Evaluate subcontractor and vendor bids; maintain and build trade partner relationships
• Produce pricing variance reports to clearly track changes to estimates
• Identify, evaluate, and mitigate project risk factors in coordination with senior management
• Lead transition meetings between preconstruction and project operations teams
• Coordinate with Project Controls to develop detailed schedules for design, approval, estimating, and purchasing
• Provide clear scopes of work and pre-qualification requirements for subcontractors and vendors
• Act as a constructability reviewer and value analysis adviser
• Support procurement coordination with the project execution team
• Collaborate with business development managers, project managers, and proposal teams to secure new work
• Serve as the key communication link between the WTR Engineering GP and the preconstruction section
• Uphold and promote Burns & McDonnell safety programs across all project team members and subcontractors
• Conduct safety, quality, progress, and financial audits as required

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director