Lead Pre-Construction Director, Water & Wastewater

Kiewit; Westlake, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Kiewit Water Facilities South is seeking a seasoned Pre-Construction Manager to guide planning, estimating, and early project development for large water and wastewater projects across North America. You will lead multi-disciplinary teams, collaborate with clients and partners, and help shape strategic wins from concept through turnover.

The role requires a proven track record delivering large-scale facilities, strong leadership, and expertise in design-build and alternative delivery methods.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related field.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in heavy civil, water, wastewater, or industrial construction.
• 10+ years of estimating, preconstruction, project management, or operations leadership experience.
• Demonstrated experience leading pursuits valued at $100M+.
• Strong understanding of water and wastewater treatment processes, facilities, and infrastructure.
• Experience with design-build and alternative delivery procurement methods.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
• Strong financial acumen, including estimating, budgeting, forecasting, and risk analysis.
• Ability to travel and relocate as project and business needs require.

Responsibilities

• Lead all preconstruction activities from opportunity identification through project award.
• Develop pursuit strategies and work closely with district leadership to position KWFS for strategic growth.
• Establish project execution plans, staffing strategies, procurement approaches, and risk mitigation plans during the pursuit phase.
• Direct preparation of conceptual, budgetary, GMP, and detailed construction estimates.
• Oversee quantity development, cost modeling, pricing strategies, and estimate reviews.
• Lead risk identification workshops and develop mitigation strategies for commercial, technical, and operational risks.
• Evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals to ensure competitiveness and alignment with project objectives.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with owners, engineers, consultants, and strategic partners.
• Participate in executive presentations, proposal interviews, and project pursuit meetings.
• Collaborate with engineering teams during design development to maximize constructability, innovation, and value.
• Support market strategy development and opportunity identification efforts.
• Assist with contract negotiations and commercial strategy development.
• Ensure successful transition of awarded projects to project management and operations teams.

Skills

Strong communication

Negotiation

Leadership

Presentation

Relationship management

Willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, or related field

Job description

Kiewit Water Facilities South is seeking a seasoned Pre-Construction Manager to guide planning, estimating, and early project development for large water and wastewater projects across North America. You will lead multi-disciplinary teams, collaborate with clients and partners, and help shape strategic wins from concept through turnover.

The role requires a proven track record delivering large-scale facilities, strong leadership, and expertise in design-build and alternative delivery methods.