Assistant Preconstruction Project Manager

JobSpace; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Unispace in New Zealand is seeking an Assistant Preconstruction Project Manager who is organised and commercially minded. You will operate at the front end of projects, helping deepen pre-construction experience and support winning work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Responsibilities include planning and coordinating pre-construction activities, reviewing drawings, coordinating pricing, managing bids and cost plans, and liaising with internal teams to ensure a smooth transition to

Qualifications

• 2–5 years' experience in estimating, pre-construction, project coordination, or commercial roles.
• Exposure to commercial fit-out or construction projects.
• Strong communication and stakeholder coordination skills.

Responsibilities

• 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

Skills

Experience in estimating/pre-constr

Stakeholder coordination

Strong communication

Education

Degree in Construction Management or Quantity Surveying

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Project

Document management systems

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.