Preconstruction Manager — Estimating & Design Lead

Crain Construction, Inc.; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Crain Construction, Inc. in Nashville, TN, seeks a Preconstruction Manager to lead cost estimation and budgeting for commercial projects. This on-site role interfaces with design teams and trade partners to ensure constructability and value, guiding bid processes and proposals for clients.

The role emphasizes collaboration with project managers and leadership to align scope, schedule, and budget, while maintaining preconstruction documentation and driving improvements in estimating processes.

Qualifications

• Experience in construction estimating and cost management.
• Design management and budgeting to align project scope with financial goals.
• Proposal writing and client presentations.
• Knowledge of commercial construction methods and market context.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications and contracts.
• Experience using estimating and project planning software; Excel skills helpful.
• Strong communication, collaboration and negotiation skills.
• Analytical, organized and detail-oriented with deadlines.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Previous preconstruction or estimating experience with a general contractor is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead preconstruction efforts, including preparing detailed cost estimates.
• Develop project budgets, coordinating with design teams and trade partners for value and constructability.
• Review plans and specifications, manage bid processes and analyze subcontractor proposals.
• Prepare comprehensive proposals and presentations for clients.
• Collaborate with project managers, operations leadership, and clients to align scope, schedule and budget.
• Maintain accurate preconstruction documentation and contribute to process improvements.

Skills

Cost estimation

Design management

Proposal writing

Reading drawings

Estimating software

Excel

Communication

Time management

Negotiation

Analytical thinking

Education

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

Equivalent relevant experience

Tools

Excel

Estimating software

Job description

Crain Construction, Inc. in Nashville, TN, seeks a Preconstruction Manager to lead cost estimation and budgeting for commercial projects. This on-site role interfaces with design teams and trade partners to ensure constructability and value, guiding bid processes and proposals for clients.

The role emphasizes collaboration with project managers and leadership to align scope, schedule, and budget, while maintaining preconstruction documentation and driving improvements in estimating processes.