Pre-Construction Manager

RP Communities; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading residential construction company in Chattanooga, TN is seeking a Preconstruction Manager to lead the preconstruction activities and ensure projects are properly scoped, budgeted, and scheduled. The role involves collaboration with architects, engineers, and subcontractors, focusing on cost estimation and risk assessment. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and have over 5 years of construction experience along with proficiency in construction estimating tools. Strong leadership and communication skills are essential for this position.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in construction, focusing on preconstruction and project management.
• Strong knowledge of building codes and construction best practices.
• Ability to interpret architectural and engineering drawings.

Responsibilities

• Lead preconstruction activities from concept to project launch.
• Develop project budgets and cost estimates with value engineering.
• Manage the full bidding process and communicate with stakeholders.

Skills

Construction estimating software proficiency

Attention to detail

Analytical thinking

Negotiation skills

Leadership abilities

Education

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

Tools

PlanSwift

AutoCAD

Bluebeam

Microsoft Office Suite

Procore

Microsoft Project

Job description

Company Description | About RP Communities

As one of Chattanooga's premier real estate developers, RP Communities is on a mission to redefine happy living through quality craftsmanship and unwavering transparency. Our team comprises outgoing personalities, innovative thinkers, and results‑driven individuals who share a commitment to building homes, not houses. Come build a career with RP.

Role Description

We are seeking a dynamic, process‑driven Preconstruction Manager to be a key foundational leader in our growing preconstruction department. This role is tasked with collaborating with our team to establish and oversee best practice preconstruction processes. You will be a leader in the preconstruction lifecycle, working with Architects, Engineers, Subcontractors, and stakeholders to ensure projects are not only properly scoped, budgeted, and scheduled but also that the underlying systems are built for future growth.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and assist in managing the preconstruction activities from initial concept to project launch.
• Develop both conceptual and detailed project budgets and cost estimates, while proactively providing value engineering solutions to optimize costs without compromising quality.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and consultants to review and refine project plans (from Schematic Design to Construction Documents), ensuring feasibility and compliance with all authorities having jurisdiction.
• Conduct risk assessments with the Director of Preconstruction, Director of Construction and President of Construction to identify potential challenges before construction begins.
• Establish project schedules, and coordinate timelines with the project team, and ensure alignment with stakeholder expectations and overall company objectives.
• Manage the full bidding process, including the evaluation of contractor and supplier proposals, analysis of submittals, and contract negotiation.
• Maintains clear communication with stakeholders, providing updates and addressing concerns throughout the preconstruction phase.
• Collaborate with the project team to ensure a seamless transition from preconstruction to the building phase.
• Stay informed about industry trends, new materials, and construction techniques to enhance project efficiency and quality.
• Research and assists in maintaining historical cost data from past projects, along with specific procedures and requirements by local jurisdictions and authorities having jurisdiction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field (preferred) or relevant experience.
• 5+ years of experience in construction, with a strong background in preconstruction, estimating, or project management, ideally across multiple product types.
• Proficiency in construction estimating software, PlanSwift, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong knowledge of building codes, permitting processes, and construction best practices.
• Excellent negotiation, budgeting, and cost analysis skills.
• Ability to interpret architectural and engineering drawings accurately.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Detail‑oriented with strong organizational and time‑management skills.
• Commercial or multifamily experience required.

Required Skills & Experience

• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Detail oriented with a high level of accountability and urgency.
• Analytical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to quality.
• Ability to interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and specifications.
• Proficiency in Procore and Microsoft Project.