Assistant Preconstruction Project Manager

Unispace; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Pension

Paid holiday leave

Travel opportunities

Job summary

A global workplace transformation company in Christchurch is seeking an Assistant Preconstruction Project Manager. This role involves supporting pre-construction activities, managing bid documentation, and coordinating with subcontractors. The ideal candidate has 2–5 years of relevant experience, proficiency in Microsoft tools, and strong stakeholder coordination skills. The company offers competitive salaries, extensive benefits, and a focus on employee well-being, promoting a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• 2–5 years’ experience in estimating, pre-construction, project coordination, or commercial roles.
• Exposure to commercial fit-out or construction projects.
• Knowledge of construction documentation, scopes, and revision control.

Responsibilities

• Support the Pre-Construction Manager in planning and coordinating pre-construction activities.
• Assist with reviewing drawings and specifications.
• Manage bid documentation, RFIs, addendums, and tender queries.

Skills

Attention to detail

Stakeholder coordination

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Understanding of subcontractor trades

Education

Degree in Construction Management

Qualification in Quantity Surveying

Tools

Microsoft Project

Document management systems

Job description

At Unispace, we are committed to transforming workplaces to meet the diverse needs of today’s dynamic global brands. Our agile, end-to-end approach is delivered seamlessly across borders, fueled by strong client partnerships and supported by insightful workplace intelligence and innovative technology.

We believe that everyone deserves to work in an environment that inspires productivity, fosters peak performance, and promotes overall well‑being. Across our 48 global studios, we recognize that positive work environments cultivate open, collaborative, and supportive cultures, enriched by the contributions of independent and motivated individuals from all backgrounds.

While our core business revolves around strategizing, designing, and building workplaces for some of the world's leading brands, we understand that our people are our greatest asset. We prioritize their growth and well‑being through a comprehensive Employee Value Proposition program that includes rewards and recognition, career development opportunities, and a strong focus on mental and physical well‑being.

To further support our team, we embrace flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options that empower our employees to balance in‑office collaboration with remote work flexibility. This approach not only enhances work‑life balance but also allows us to harness the full potential of our diverse and talented workforce.

Role Profile

As an Assistant Preconstruction Project Manager, organised and commercially aware construction professional who enjoys working at the front end of projects. You’re keen to deepen your pre‑construction experience, contribute to winning work, and support the successful transition of projects from concept to delivery within a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities include but not limited to

• Support the Pre‑Construction Manager in planning and coordinating all pre‑construction activities
• Assist with reviewing drawings and specifications, identifying scope gaps, constructability issues, and value‑engineering opportunities
• Coordinate subcontractor and supplier pricing, ensuring scopes are clear, consistent, and aligned across trades
• Manage bid documentation, RFIs, addendums, and tender queries
• Assist with the preparation of cost plans, estimates, and project budgets during bid and early project stages
• Support the development of pre‑construction programmes and procurement schedules
• Maintain accurate records of pricing, assumptions, and risk items
• Help prepare client presentations, proposals, and handover documentation
• Liaise with internal teams (design, commercial, delivery) to ensure smooth transition from pre‑construction to construction
• Build positive working relationships with subcontractors and consultants

Key Measures

• Accurate, well‑coordinated tender submissions
• Timely and organised support of live bids and pre‑construction activities
• Strong collaboration with project teams and subcontractors
• Seamless handover of information into delivery teams

About you

• 2–5 years’ experience in estimating, pre‑construction, project coordination, or commercial roles
• Exposure to commercial fit‑out or construction projects
• Understanding of subcontractor trades and tender processes
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Knowledge of construction documentation, scopes, and revision control
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Project, and document management systems
• Degree or qualification in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or similar (preferred)
• Strong communication and stakeholder coordination skills

What We Offer

In return, you will receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, including a pension, paid holiday leave, and travel opportunities across our global offices. Unispace values its employees and offers extensive rewards and recognition, career development, and a focus on well‑being.

Join Us

If you are passionate about joining Unispace and contributing to some of the world’s most recognisable commercial design projects, then please apply through our careers page.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person(s) assigned to this job. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply, and we are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, allowing them to perform essential job functions as determined on a case‑by‑case basis.

Inclusion and Diversity Commitment

At Unispace, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity hiring and will evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition (as defined by state law), physical or mental disability, military service, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

We are proud that our leadership reflects this commitment, with persons of color, women, neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ individuals playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of our organization. Their unique perspectives and experiences drive innovation and help us create a truly inclusive culture. We are dedicated to ensuring that every voice is heard and that our workplace is a space where diversity is not only celebrated but is integral to our success.