Preconstruction Manager

HGC•Columbus, OH

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Preconstruction Manager is responsible for leading the front-end planning and coordination efforts on construction projects prior to breaking ground. This role focuses on guiding design development, managing project milestones during the design phase, aligning with client goals, and facilitating smooth handoff to operations. The Preconstruction Manager serves as the strategic lead during the preconstruction phase. A LEGACY OF BUILDING CAREERS At HGC Construction, we are building for the long haul. We believe exceptional work begins with people who share our values and commitment to excellence. We recognize that our employees are more than professionals; they’re individuals with families, passions, and full lives beyond work. That’s why we emphasize balance, supporting both professional growth and personal fulfillment. Our culture thrives on celebrating shared victories, encouraging growth, and making a lasting impact on our clients and community. At HGC Construction, we’re not just building structures; we’re building a legacy of quality, integrity, and purpose.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field
7+ years of construction experience with at least 3 years in a preconstruction leadership or project management capacity
Prior experience working on complex commercial or institutional projects
Strong communicator and relationship builder with the ability to influence stakeholders
Deep understanding of project phasing, delivery methods (CMAR, GMP, Design-Build), and value management processes
Familiar with budgeting principles, construction means and methods, and permitting processes
Excellent organizational skills and the ability to lead teams through ambiguity
Experience facilitating design coordination and early-stage decision-making

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and design partners during the preconstruction phase.
Lead project visioning, scope alignment, phasing strategies, and high-level scheduling.
Facilitate internal and external team collaboration to keep preconstruction efforts on track.
Coordinate with architects, engineers, and consultants to guide design toward budget and schedule objectives.
Ensure design solutions reflect constructability, procurement strategies, and cost goals.
Host design review meetings and track design progress relative to program needs.
Collaborate with Estimators to understand and present milestone budgets and cost plans.
Identify budget risks or scope gaps and drive the team toward reconciliation strategies.
Lead value management discussions with design and ownership teams without performing takeoffs.
Guide early trade partner involvement, procurement schedules, and packaging strategies.
Coordinate early bid releases or preconstruction input from key subcontractors.
Manage relationships with critical vendors and prequalify partners as needed.
Lead development of high-level project schedules including preconstruction milestones, design deliverables, permitting, and early enabling work.
Coordinate input from design, estimating, and operations teams.
Represent the company in preconstruction meetings, presentations, and interviews.
Communicate progress, constraints, and opportunities to clients and stakeholders in a proactive manner.
Ensure client expectations are met through alignment of design, budget, and schedule.