Preconstruction Project Manager, Commercial Construction

Pepper Construction•Milwaukee, WI

About The Position

At Pepper Construction Wisconsin, preconstruction is more than estimating. It is strategic project leadership that shapes outcomes long before construction begins. We are seeking a collaborative, client-focused Preconstruction Project Manager who can guide projects from early concept through turnover with a deep understanding of cost, constructability, market conditions, building systems, and client priorities.

Requirements

5–10 years of commercial construction experience with significant preconstruction leadership responsibilities
Experience leading preconstruction efforts on projects exceeding $10M
Strong client-facing communication and relationship management skills
Deep understanding of conceptual estimating, constructability, cost planning, and project phasing
Proficiency with Destini, WinEst, or similar estimating platforms

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred
Experience with Revit and BIM coordination preferred
Experience in healthcare, higher education, office, industrial, manufacturing, life sciences, hospitality, interiors, K-12, or retail preferred

Responsibilities

Lead preconstruction efforts from conceptual design through GMP development and project turnover
Partner with clients and design teams to establish project goals, budgets, schedules, and operational priorities
Develop conceptual, schematic, design development, and detailed estimates from limited or evolving information
Perform detailed quantity takeoffs manually and electronically
Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documents to identify cost drivers, constructability concerns, and opportunities for optimization
Lead value analysis and value engineering discussions while maintaining design intent and project goals
Develop detailed scopes of work by trade and manage bid packaging strategies
Conduct constructability reviews and building systems evaluations
Analyze market conditions, labor trends, material escalation, and procurement risks
Level, analyze, and descope trade partner proposals
Collaborate with operations and field leadership to align planning with execution strategies
Support business development and project pursuit activities
Build strong relationships with clients, architects, engineers, trade partners, and internal teams
Communicate clearly and confidently with technical and non-technical stakeholders
Lead meetings and facilitate productive conversations that drive alignment and decision-making
Mentor and support less experienced team members
Promote a collaborative, solutions-oriented culture grounded in Pepper’s values