Preconstruction Manager

Sterling Search Partners; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Sterling Search Partners is looking for a Preconstruction Manager in Birmingham, AL. This role involves leading planning and budgeting activities before construction, working closely with clients, architects, and subcontractors.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and 5–10+ years of experience in construction estimating or preconstruction. Strong knowledge of construction methods and proficiency in estimating software are essential for success.

Qualifications

• 5–10+ years of construction estimating or preconstruction experience.
• Experience with commercial, industrial, healthcare, education, or multifamily projects.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and pricing.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, estimating, budgeting, and coordination activities before construction.
• Serve as primary preconstruction contact for clients and design teams.
• Generate bid summaries and cost reports.

Skills

Construction estimating

Project scheduling

Client coordination

Risk management

Value engineering

Estimating software proficiency

Microsoft Excel

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

The Preconstruction Manager leads the planning, estimating, budgeting, and coordination activities that occur before construction begins. This role works closely with clients, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and internal operations teams to develop accurate project costs, schedules, and scopes while helping secure profitable work. Preconstruction Managers play a key role in risk management, value engineering, client relationships, and ensuring projects are set up for successful execution.

Key Responsibilities

Estimating & Budgeting

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design-development, and final estimates
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and proposal documents
• Develop detailed quantity takeoffs and pricing
• Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier bids
• Maintain historical cost databases and market pricing
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and value engineering options

Project Planning

• Assist in project scheduling and phasing plans
• Coordinate constructability reviews
• Identify project risks and mitigation strategies
• Support logistics and site utilization planning

Client & Team Coordination

• Serve as primary preconstruction contact for clients and design teams
• Lead preconstruction meetings and presentations
• Collaborate with operations, field teams, and business development
• Help negotiate contracts and scope clarifications
• Maintain strong subcontractor and vendor relationships

Procurement Support

• Develop bid packages and scopes of work
• Evaluate subcontractor qualifications and pricing
• Assist with buyout strategy and early procurement items
• Track long-lead materials and market conditions

Reporting & Documentation

• Generate bid summaries and cost reports
• Maintain accurate preconstruction files and documentation
• Provide executive updates on project pipeline and budgets

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred
• 5–10+ years of construction estimating or preconstruction experience
• Experience with commercial, industrial, healthcare, education, or multifamily projects
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and pricing
• Ability to read and interpret plans and specifications
• Proficiency in estimating software and Microsoft Excel