Pre-Construction/Project Manager (School Construction)

Element Consulting • Colton, CA

111d • $140,000 - $165,000

About The Position

The Pre-Construction Manager is responsible for leading and managing all pre-construction activities for the District’s school bond construction program. This role oversees planning, budgeting, design coordination, cost estimating, scheduling, and constructability reviews to ensure projects are well-defined and financially feasible before transitioning into construction. The Pre-Construction Manager works closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and District stakeholders to deliver high-quality educational facilities that align with the program’s goals, budget, and schedule.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 8 years of progressively responsible experience in construction project management, with at least 3 years in pre-construction for K–12, higher education, or public sector projects.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, school design standards, building codes, and regulatory approval processes.
• Expertise in cost estimating, budgeting, scheduling, and constructability analysis.
• Skilled in managing design teams, consultants, and contractors in a collaborative environment.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in project management and scheduling software (e.g., Primavera, MS Project, Procore).

Nice To Haves

• Experience with bond-funded construction programs, DSA processes, and California public contracting laws strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee pre-construction activities for all bond-funded school construction and modernization projects.
• Collaborate with District leadership, program managers, and school site representatives to define project scope, goals, and priorities.
• Ensure alignment of project planning with educational specifications, bond program requirements, and regulatory compliance.
• Develop and maintain project budgets during planning and design phases.
• Coordinate cost estimates, value engineering, and life-cycle cost analysis to maximize bond dollars.
• Track budget changes and provide regular financial reports to leadership.
• Manage design consultants to ensure project documents are complete, accurate, and within budget.
• Conduct constructability reviews to identify risks, conflicts, and potential cost savings before bid.
• Ensure design compliance with state (DSA), local, and District standards.
• Prepare and maintain project schedules during pre-construction.
• Support procurement of contractors, consultants, and vendors in accordance with public contracting laws.
• Participate in bid evaluations, contractor selection, and contract negotiations.
• Serve as liaison between District leadership, consultants, contractors, and community stakeholders.
• Conduct presentations and provide status updates to the Board of Education, Bond Oversight Committees, and community groups.
• Facilitate collaboration between academic, facilities, and operations staff to ensure project alignment with educational needs.

Benefits

• Salary dependent on education and experience.
• Salary range: $140K-$165K

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees