Preconstruction Manager

EMJ Construction•Chattanooga, TN

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Preconstruction Manager (PCM) at EMJ Construction leads the project team through decision-making, planning, and execution phases, creating value for clients as a key member of our Client Experience (CX) teams. This role is responsible for building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, architects, engineers, trade partners, and suppliers, while closely collaborating with Project Managers and Superintendents to ensure a seamless transition from preconstruction to project execution. The PCM must embody EMJ’s core values and promote a collaborative, solutions-focused team environment. This role is based in Chattanooga, TN.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field (preferred).
Minimum of 5 years of relevant construction experience.
Strong ability to define expectations, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
Expertise in LEED and sustainability, building codes and entitlements, due diligence, and tenant coordination.
Proficiency in reading and analyzing soils reports and other technical project data.
Working knowledge of building systems, site work, and construction cost components.
Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office, Procore, On-Screen Takeoff, Viewpoint, and EarthWorks.
Willingness to travel up to 20%.

Responsibilities

Build lasting relationships by demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity.
Foster trust and confidence through open, frequent communication.
Understand client values and align project activities to enhance the overall client experience.
Identify and mitigate project risks through creative, collaborative problem-solving.
Ensure accurate and timely documentation to support profitability and client satisfaction.
Partner with Project Managers and Superintendents to evaluate constructability and develop risk mitigation plans.
Lead the project team through preconstruction efforts with a focus on execution readiness.
Facilitate Owner-Architect-Contractor (OAC) meetings and distribute timely documentation.
Mentor team members while aligning project schedule, safety, and quality goals.
Document opportunities for added project value.
Prepare accurate, detailed budgets from conceptual through final design stages.
Collaborate with design consultants to maintain project vision while offering value-engineering insights.
Support project execution with complete bid packages and cost breakdowns.
Manage site investigations, due diligence efforts, and design document reviews.
Align lease and end-user requirements with design, budget, and schedule.
Oversee entitlement and permitting processes.
Maintain design alignment with budget, scope, and schedule through regular updates.
Evaluate systems for efficiency and cost-saving opportunities.
Conduct thorough constructability reviews and manage preconstruction RFIs.
Develop bid strategies and clear bid instructions.
Lead subcontractor and supplier outreach to ensure comprehensive bid coverage.
Prepare detailed estimates and bid tab analyses.
Present bid results and strategic recommendations to clients.
Prequalify trade partners and suppliers using Compass.
Lead scope reviews and trade partner negotiations.
Prepare and track Subcontracts, Purchase Orders, and Owner Contracts.
Lead estimate review and formal project handoff to Project Manager and Superintendent.
Support project teams in monitoring cost and profitability throughout execution.
Participate in monthly Project Status Reports (PSRs).
Assist with conflict resolution and maintaining client and partner relationships.
Participate in post-project reviews and trade partner surveys.
Document lessons learned and update historical cost data.
Collaborate on capturing key takeaways for future projects.