Senior Preconstruction Services Manager
About The Position
Wharton-Smith, Inc. is seeking a Senior Preconstruction Services Manager to lead preconstruction efforts on assigned projects. The role develops accurate cost estimates, manages subcontractor relationships, prepares proposals, and supports a smooth transition from preconstruction to operations. Senior-level responsibilities include leading complex pursuits, mentoring team members, and contributing strategically to preconstruction planning and execution. The posting states the candidate should be willing to work in Tampa, Florida, and also specifies current residency in or near Palm Beach Gardens/Southeast Florida with strong knowledge of the local construction market.
Requirements
- 15–20 years of total construction experience; 20 years is preferred.
- At least the most recent 10 years of experience in preconstruction is required.
- The preceding 5–10 years may be in operations, depending on total experience.
- Current residency in or near Palm Beach Gardens/Southeast Florida and strong knowledge of the local construction market.
- Experience with K–12 or government construction projects is required.
- Proficiency in PlanSwift and Microsoft Excel.
- Strong communication, organizational, and presentation skills.
- Experience with Hard Bid, Construction Management, and Design-Build delivery methods.
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
- 7–15+ years of estimating experience in the Southeast Florida region.
- Ability to lead multiple estimates and pursuits concurrently.
- Computer proficiency in MS Outlook, Word, and additional industry-relevant software.
Nice To Haves
- 20 years of total construction experience is preferred.
Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed estimates across all trades for Lump Sum, Construction Management, and Design-Build projects.
- Develop bid strategies that support competitiveness while maintaining budget accuracy.
- Perform quantity take-offs using PlanSwift and similar estimating software.
- Develop estimates using unit-cost methods and Excel-based formats for conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction-document stages.
- Prepare budgets and proposals from drawings at SD/30%, DD/60%, and CD/90% levels.
- Provide constructability reviews and value-management recommendations.
- Present estimates and cost breakdowns to owners, architects, and project stakeholders.
- Lead solicitation, scope review, and evaluation of subcontractor and vendor proposals.
- Organize and conduct pre-bid subcontractor meetings and site walkthroughs.
- Select subcontractor and vendor proposals for inclusion in final bids.
- Conduct site visits to assess construction methods and conditions and inform bid strategies.
- Supervise and mentor junior estimators assigned to projects.
- Collaborate under strict deadlines to support bid-day activities and make timely subcontractor recommendations.
- Coordinate with architects, engineers, design consultants, subcontractors, owner representatives, and internal staff throughout preconstruction.
- Lead the Project Hand-off Meeting to transfer project knowledge from Preconstruction to Operations.
- Lead more complex pursuits and contribute strategically to preconstruction planning and execution.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
