Senior Manager, Pre-Construction Services - Data Center

Gray Construction; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Gray Construction in Lexington, KY is seeking a Pre-Construction Manager to lead strategies for mission critical and data center projects. The ideal candidate will have at least ten years of experience in pre-construction or project management, exceptional leadership and communication skills, and proficiency in estimating tools.

You will be part of a collaborative team dedicated to delivering exceptional construction solutions. Gray values personal growth and team contributions, making this an ideal environment for high achievers.

Qualifications

• Minimum of ten years of related experience in pre-construction or project management.
• Experience in estimating and focusing on Mission Critical or Data Center construction.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead pre-construction strategy and proposal development.
• Evaluate project opportunities and support decision-making.
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to process improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team Collaboration

Risk Assessment

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Tools

Estimating software

Document preparation tools

Spreadsheet software

Job description

Overview

Our Lexington, KY office is currently looking to add a Pre-Construction Manager to mainly focus on mission critical/data center construction projects.

Responsibilities

Why Gray?

Gray is a fully integrated design-builder delivering end-to-end solutions across construction, professional services, specialty equipment, and real estate. Since 1960, Gray has grown from a regional contractor to a nationally ranked industry leader, serving top domestic and international companies in the following markets: Manufacturing, Food & Beverage, Data Centers, Advanced Technology, and Distribution.

Our integrated approach allows us to deliver value at every phase of a project– from designing and building state-of-the-art facilities to fabricating custom process equipment and implementing advanced automation.

But what truly defines Gray is our people. Our success is driven by passionate, collaborative team members who take pride in their work, value strong relationships, and are committed to doing the right thing for our customers and one another. At Gray, you’ll find a culture built on teamwork, accountability, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

“Personal growth precedes Gray’s growth.” – Stephen Gray, President & CEO, Gray, Inc.

What we expect

• Leads pre-construction strategy for Gray pursuits and projects, from early opportunity evaluation through final pricing and transition to execution, while typically acting as Proposal Leader.
• Directs the development and validation of conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimates, aligning cost strategies with customer objectives, delivery approach, schedule, and risk profile.
• Evaluates opportunities early, using limited or evolving information to support Go / No‑Go decisions, pursuit strategy, and effective allocation of Gray resources.
• Serves as a trusted Gray partner to customers, designers, and consultants, helping define scope, align assumptions, and establish confidence in Gray’s approach.
• Partners closely with operations, design management, procurement, scheduling, and other Gray departments as needed, ensuring constructability, market awareness, and a seamless transition from pre-construction into execution.
• Drives value management and risk assessment, identifying cost drivers, escalation exposure, constructability challenges, and schedule risks early in the process.
• Provides clear, decision‑support pricing and analyses, communicating assumptions, ranges, confidence levels, and risk—not just numbers.
• Leads, mentors, and holds pre-construction teams accountable, while contributing to continuous improvement of Gray’s preconstruction tools, processes, and standards.
• Other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this position, the team member is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands, reach with hands or arms and talk or hear. They may occasionally be required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close vision.

Generally, normal office environments where noise level is moderate and temperature/humidity is controlled. Overtime may be required.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Qualifications

Who we want

• ​Bachelor’s degree from four‑year college or university; and a minimum of ten years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience in pre-construction, estimating, or project management with a focus on Mission Critical or Data Center construction.
• Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to mentor junior team members.
• Proficient in standard business and pre‑construction software tools, including document preparation, spreadsheets, email, and estimating‑related applications.

The new team member should be an energetic, self‑motivated individual who enjoys a team environment, as well as a passion for collaboration and professional development. If you are a high achiever striving to exceed expectations in a fast‑paced innovative company, then Gray is the place for you.

The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Gray is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes everyone to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.