Senior Preconstruction Manager

Unispace; Sydney; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Unispace in Sydney seeks a Senior Preconstruction Manager to lead interior fit-out projects from the early client meeting through the pre-contract stage. You will oversee estimating, design development, tender documentation, and contract alignment to ensure a smooth handover to delivery.

You’ll coordinate multiple subcontractors, manage budgets and cash flow, and drive value engineering while maintaining profitability and client satisfaction across complex commercial interiors.

Qualifications

• Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred.
• Extensive experience in construction estimating with a strong commercial focus.
• Knowledge of local market and subcontractors; ability to identify scope and execution details.
• Understanding of preconstruction and delivery methodologies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Project andVista construction project management software.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate estimating from scope identification to final costing and submission.
• Review plans and specifications to determine materials, labour, and time required.
• Collaborate with project team in planning phases to align resources and timelines.
• Identify constructability issues and value engineering opportunities.
• Ensure budgets, net profit targets, and project schedules are met.
• Manage cash flow and negotiate payment terms with clients and subs.
• Conduct subcontractor bid processes ensuring consistent scope and timelines.
• Maintain project schedules and smooth handover from pre-construction to construction.
• Produce progressive budgets and keep stakeholders informed of changes.
• Present proposals aligned with client needs and expectations.
• Foster relationships with subcontractors and vendors to ensure quality delivery.
• Share lessons learned with local teams to promote continuous improvement.

Skills

Preconstruction

Stakeholder management

Contract negotiation

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying

Tools

Microsoft Project

Vista

Job description

At Unispace, we create spaces that empower people and businesses to thrive. We are a global design-build partner delivering workplace and life sciences projects for some of the world’s most innovative brands.

With over 500 people across four continents, we bring together strategy, design, project management, and delivery into one seamless experience. Our integrated approach enables us to move with agility, solve complex challenges, and deliver meaningful outcomes for our clients.

Our people are at the centre of everything we do. We foster a collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity, accountability, creativity, and continuous improvement. We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams and help us create better experiences for our clients and each other.

At Unispace, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects, work alongside talented global teams, and grow your career in an environment that encourages innovation and new ideas.

Why you’re here:

As a Senior Preconstruction Manager, you will manage commercial interior fit-out projects from initial client meetings through the pre-contract stage. This includes design development, estimating, technical evaluation, assembling tender documentation, and contract agreements, all while ensuring smooth handover to the Contracts Manager for project build-out.

What you’re responsible for:

• Lead and coordinate the estimating proposal from scope identification to final costing and submission, ensuring all elements of the proposal align with client needs and company standards.
• Thoroughly review plans, drawings, and specifications, developing a comprehensive understanding of all materials, labor, and time required to complete the project.
• Collaborate with the project team in planning phases prior to project initiation to ensure all necessary resources and timelines are aligned.
• Identify potential constructability issues, value engineering opportunities, and ensure the accuracy of the scope of work, spearheading any corrections/changes needed.
• Ensure that budgets, net profit targets, and project schedules are met, working closely with the Managing Directors, Global Director, Delivery, and local Principals.
• Manage cash flow effectively, negotiating payment terms and ensuring financial stability throughout the project.
• Conduct a comprehensive subcontractor bid process, ensuring all subcontractors bid on the same scope of work, logistics, and schedules.
• Maintain robust project schedules that align with estimating and purchasing needs, ensuring smooth transition through pre-construction to construction stages.
• Produce complete and progressive project budgets throughout the client acquisition process and as projects are initiated, regularly updating stakeholders on any changes.
• Present proposals and progressive budgets to clients in line with their needs and preferences, ensuring transparency and alignment with client expectations.
• Ensure project profitability, client satisfaction, and the engagement of quality subcontractors for each project.
• Foster and maintain effective communication with clients throughout the pre-construction phase, addressing any concerns and providing regular updates.
• Build and nurture long-term relationships with subcontractors and vendors that prioritize the client's needs and maintain high standards of service.
• Share successful project outcomes and lessons learned with local teams, contributing to a culture of continuous improvement.

How we’ll measure it:

• Accurate trade cost plans and up-to-date cost plans/PCS database.
• Effective identification of profit opportunities and trade risks, incorporating them into the Project Control Sheet.
• Successful negotiation of pricing and contractor offers.
• Timely project handovers and clear client communication.
• Managing multiple projects while meeting deadlines, milestones, and identifying risks.

Your experience & skills:

• A degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
• Extensive experience in construction estimating, with a strong commercial focus.
• In-depth knowledge of local market and subcontractors, with the ability to identify scope, timeframes, and execution details for various trades.
• Demonstrated understanding of preconstruction and delivery methodologies.
• Proficient in Microsoft Project and construction project management software, preferably Vista.
• Ability to manage and coordinate multiple subcontractor trades, with strong commercial awareness.
• Knowledge of building codes, health & safety standards, and the ability to provide technical input during the pre-construction phase.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required.

We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences and are committed to providing reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process and employment lifecycle where required by applicable law.

Inclusion & Diversity

At Unispace, we believe diverse perspectives strengthen our teams, our culture, and the work we deliver for our clients. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with respect and has the opportunity to thrive.

Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations.