Preconstruction Manager

Dean Builds•Lexington, KY

24d

About The Position

The Preconstruction Manager oversees all preconstruction activities from initial concept through project handoff. The role supports successful project execution within budget and schedule through accurate estimating, constructability review, value engineering, scheduling, and risk assessment. The position works with owners, architects, engineers, internal project teams, and trade partners; leads and develops preconstruction staff; and supports pursuit strategy, contract negotiations, and client relationships.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
At least 7 years of experience in commercial construction, with significant preconstruction, estimating, or project planning experience.
Demonstrated experience leading preconstruction efforts for projects of varying size and complexity.
Background working with general contractors, construction managers, or design-build teams.
Experience with alternative delivery methods, including CM at Risk, Design-Build, or IPD.
Strong understanding of construction means and methods, materials, and sequencing.
Expertise in conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimating; value engineering and cost modeling; budget development and cost control; and constructability and logistics analysis.
Ability to interpret and analyze drawings, specifications, and design documents at all phases.
Knowledge of estimating and preconstruction software such as Sage, ProEst, OST, Bluebeam, Excel, or similar.
Knowledge of local building codes, procurement methods, and subcontractor markets.
Experience leading preconstruction teams and ability to mentor and develop junior staff.
Strong collaboration skills with owners, architects, engineers, and internal project teams.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to clearly present budgets, schedules, and value options.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, with ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Professionalism, sound judgment, attention to detail, and understanding of market conditions, pricing trends, and risk management.
Client-focused mindset and ability to support relationship development.

Nice To Haves

Experience in specific markets such as healthcare, education, industrial, or multifamily.
Familiarity with BIM coordination and preconstruction modeling.

Responsibilities

Oversee preconstruction activities from initial concept through project handoff.
Develop conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimates, budgets, cost models, and cost-control approaches.
Conduct value engineering, constructability, logistics, and risk analyses.
Develop and support project schedules and analyze design documents, drawings, and specifications.
Lead preconstruction teams, including estimators and coordinators, and mentor junior staff.
Collaborate with owners, architects, engineers, internal project teams, and trade partners; facilitate design-assist and early trade partner involvement.
Present budgets, schedules, and value options to owners and stakeholders.
Support pursuit strategy through conceptual budgets, schedules, and proposal input.
Support contract negotiations and preconstruction agreements.
Support client relationship development.