Preconstruction Manager

D. Clugston, Inc.; North Carolina; On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Company vehicle or allowance

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

A respected commercial construction firm in North Carolina is looking for an experienced Preconstruction Manager to lead the preconstruction phase for various projects. This role involves developing accurate budgets, managing project strategies, and ensuring successful project execution through effective communication and collaboration. Candidates should have a strong background in commercial construction, leadership skills, and a relevant degree. The company offers competitive compensation, benefits, and opportunities for career growth.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction.
• Strong understanding of commercial construction methods and systems.
• Proven ability to develop accurate conceptual and detailed budgets.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preconstruction process from conceptual design through construction documents.
• Develop and manage project budgets, cost plans, and reports.
• Collaborate with Project Management to ensure smooth transitions to construction.

Skills

Commercial construction estimating

Budget development

Leadership

Cost management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field

Tools

Procore

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Preconstruction Manager with a strong background in budgeting, estimating, and project planning for commercial construction projects. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to lead the preconstruction process from early concept through project start, ensuring alignment between design, budget, and client expectations.

This role serves as a key leader during the early phases of a project and is responsible for establishing accurate budgets, developing project strategies, and guiding the design team toward cost‑effective solutions.

The Preconstruction Manager will work closely with owners, consultants, and internal teams to set projects up for successful execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Provides leadership throughout the preconstruction phase while maintaining a strong focus on cost accuracy, schedule alignment, and overall project feasibility.
• Proactively communicates with owners, consultants, subcontractors, and internal team members to ensure project success.
• Builds and maintains client relationships and supports future business opportunities through early project involvement and strategic planning.

Preconstruction Services

• Lead the preconstruction process from conceptual design through construction documents.
• Develop conceptual and detailed cost estimates, including quantity takeoffs and pricing analysis.
• Prepare and manage project budgets, cost plans, and cost reports throughout design development.
• Coordinate with the design team, consultants, and ownership to provide cost guidance and design direction.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and recommend scope adjustments to align with budget.
• Develop scopes of work and bid packages to ensure complete and accurate trade coverage.
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier proposals.
• Manage the subcontractor selection and buyout process, including scope alignment and contract preparation.
• Develop preliminary schedules, phasing plans, and site logistics for project planning and proposals.
• Identify project risks and provide mitigation strategies early in the process.
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, and project interviews.

Transition to Construction

• Collaborate with the Project Management and Field teams to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction to construction.
• Assist in finalizing subcontractor buyout and procurement strategies.
• Ensure all project documentation, scopes, and budgets are clearly communicated to the operations team.
• Support the development of procurement schedules, including long‑lead item identification.
• Remain engaged during early construction phases to support cost tracking and scope clarification.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction.
• Strong understanding of commercial construction methods, materials, and systems.
• Proven ability to develop accurate conceptual and detailed budgets.
• Experience with subcontractor solicitation, bid leveling, and buyout processes.
• Strong financial acumen and cost management skills.
• Proficiency in estimating software and construction management platforms (Procore or similar).
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or related field experience.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance‑based bonuses.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Company vehicle or vehicle allowance.
• Career growth opportunities within a respected company.

Why Join Us

We are a relationship‑driven commercial builder focused on delivering high‑quality projects with disciplined systems and strong collaboration. Our preconstruction team plays a critical role in shaping project success from the earliest stages.

If you’re looking to take ownership of the preconstruction process and play a key role in delivering well‑planned, successful projects, we encourage you to apply.