Preconstruction Manager / Senior Estimator - Warren

Higley Construction•Warren, NJ

About The Position

Higley Construction is seeking an experienced Preconstruction Manager / Senior Estimator to oversee and lead our preconstruction services across a diverse range of commercial construction projects. This role is integral to setting projects up for success by lump sum bidding, quantifying building systems, managing budgets, schedules, constructability, and risk analysis from the earliest stages of development through contract award. The Preconstruction Manager / Sr. Estimator will work closely with owners, architects, engineers, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers, to ensure design & construction solutions align with project goals and budget constraints. This position is ideal for an experienced construction professional who thrives on early project involvement, strategy development, and team leadership.

Requirements

Proven leadership in guiding complex preconstruction efforts on commercial construction projects.
Understanding of Subcontractor/Supplier markets including fostering & maintaining relationships to attract bidders on CMR, D/B and Lump Sum deliveries.
Strong insight of construction sequencing means and methods, and systems across all major trades.
Ability to assess and manage design documentation and provide cost input during early and evolving stages.
Highly effective communicator—comfortable presenting to executives, owners, and design teams.
Skilled in strategic planning, risk mitigation, and value engineering.
Proficient in preconstruction tools including OST (On-Screen Takeoff), Bluebeam, Building Connected and Excel.
Comfortable managing multiple active projects and shifting priorities in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to meet deadlines.
Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to mentor and guide junior staff.
Collaborative, solutions-driven mindset with strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
10+ years of construction industry experience.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
Experience in a preconstruction leadership role at a general contractor, construction management firm, or related field is a plus.
Experience with Beck DESTINI software a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage the entire preconstruction process from project pursuit/bidding through final pricing and contract execution.
Participate in competitive bidding, GMP development, and contract negotiations, supporting clear scope definitions and pricing strategy.
Coordinate and manage the design schedule and deliverables, ensuring alignment with project milestones and overall project delivery plans.
Coordinate Lump Sum Bidding deliverables, including securing & executing proper bid requirements from owner.
Collaborate with external design teams to ensure that scope, performance, and constructability are integrated into the evolving design.
Work with internal stakeholders to identify and mitigate project risks during early design phases, including scope gaps, schedule impacts, and budget constraints.
Manage all estimating functions during the preconstruction phase, including assigning and allocating appropriate resources for project pursuits, regardless of delivery method.
Oversee and maintain accountability for Estimating staff reimbursement and costs related to General & Administrative (G&A) expenses.
Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, architects, the design community, and trade partners to support and enhance future business development opportunities.
Coordinate, develop, and review General Conditions and General Requirements (GC/GR) estimates to ensure accuracy and consistency with project scope.
Partner with the estimating team to provide accurate and timely conceptual and schematic-level budgets, incorporating allowances where documentation is incomplete.
Coordinate the efforts of estimators, schedulers, and other support staff to develop complete and consistent preconstruction deliverables.
Manage preconstruction efforts in strict alignment with the terms and requirements of the owner contract, including scope deliverables, schedule, and communication protocols.
Provide value engineering input and alternative solutions that meet or exceed the design intent while improving budget, schedule, or operational goals.
Prepare and deliver preconstruction reports, including cost projections, risk assessments, and timeline forecasts, to clients and senior management.
Collaborate closely with the Business Development team to align project strategies with sales objectives and ensure seamless integration with pursuits, interviews, and client-facing deliverables.
Track and report performance metrics for assigned projects, pursuits, and deliverables to ensure alignment with company goals and continuous improvement efforts.
Lead preconstruction presentations, cost updates, and strategy meetings with owners, design teams, and internal stakeholders.
Support the transition from preconstruction to operations, ensuring project intent and deliverables are well-communicated to the project team.
Performs other related duties as assigned.