Preconstruction Manager

Drake International; Winnipeg; On-site; CAD 110,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Drake International Inc. in Winnipeg, MB is seeking a Preconstruction Manager to guide budgeting, constructability, and value engineering for multifamily, commercial and institutional projects.

You will lead preconstruction and estimating efforts from concept through tender close, partnering with owners, consultants, and project teams to influence decisions before groundbreak. The role offers a collaborative environment with a respected GC and opportunities to shape project outcomes through

Qualifications

• 10+ years estimating experience with a General Contractor.
• Proven track record delivering large-scale commercial, institutional, residential, or mixed-use projects.
• Experience leading competitive bids across Design-Build, Construction Management, and Stipulated Sum.
• Strong leadership, mentorship, and collaborative communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead preconstruction and estimating efforts for complex projects from concept through tender close.
• Manage full bid lifecycle for Design-Build and Construction Management pursuits with accuracy and risk mitigation.
• Analyze designs and specs to propose cost-effective solutions.
• Support clients with decision-making during planning.
• Build relationships with owners, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers to maximize bid opportunities.
• Work with executives to develop pursuit strategies and accurate budgets.

Skills

Estimating experience

Leadership

Communication skills

Budgeting

Cost planning

Job description

Job Title: Preconstruction Manager (Commercial and Institutional Construction)

Location: Winnipeg, MB

Salary: $110,000 - $125,000 annually (based on experience)

Why Join Our Client?

Our client is one of Winnipeg's most respected General Contractors, with a proven track record of delivering high-profile multifamily, commercial, and institutional projects in the city.

Known for their collaborative approach and long-standing client relationships, they specialize in Design-Build and Construction Management delivery models that engage clients early in the project lifecycle. As they continue to grow, they are seeking a skilled Preconstruction Manager to play a pivotal role in shaping projects from concept through to execution.

This position offers the opportunity to work directly with owners, consultants, and project teams, providing strategic guidance on budgeting, constructability, and value engineering initiatives that drive successful project outcomes.

If you enjoy influencing projects before shovels hit the ground and want to work with a company recognized for quality, innovation, and sustainable construction practices, we would like to hear from you.

What You'll Do

• Lead the preconstruction and estimating efforts for complex multifamily, healthcare, education, and recreational projects, providing strategic input from concept through tender close.


• Manage the full bid lifecycle, overseeing Design-Build and Construction Management pursuits while ensuring accuracy, competitiveness, and risk mitigation.


• Analyze project designs and specifications to recommend innovative, cost-effective construction solutions.


• Support clients with informed decision-making throughout the planning process.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with owners, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers to drive successful project outcomes and maximize bid opportunities.


• Partner with executive leadership and operations teams to develop pursuit strategies, value engineering solutions, and accurate budgets that support project wins.

What We’re Looking For

• 10+ years of estimating experience with a General Contractor, with a proven track record delivering large-scale commercial, institutional, residential, or mixed-use projects.


• Demonstrated success leading major competitive bids and negotiated proposals across Design-Build, Construction Management, and Stipulated Sum contract models.


• Deep expertise in construction means and methods, budgeting, cost planning, procurement strategies, and subcontractor market conditions.


• Strong leadership and mentorship capabilities, with experience guiding estimating teams and influencing key project and business decisions.


• A strategic, relationship-focused professional with exceptional communication skills and the ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Drake International Inc. welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodation is available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.