Senior Pre-Construction Manager

EWI Recruitment; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

EWI Recruitment is seeking an experienced Senior Pre-Construction Manager to lead the planning, development and commercial preparation of major construction projects from concept through to contract award.

This role will work with clients, consultants, design teams, contractors and internal stakeholders to establish robust project strategies, develop accurate cost plans and ensure schemes are deliverable, commercially viable and aligned with programme, quality and safety objectives.

Qualifications

• Extensive senior experience in pre-construction, estimating or project management.
• Strong knowledge of procurement routes, contract strategy, cost planning.
• Proven communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead pre-construction across multiple projects, coordinating feasibility studies and risk assessments.
• Prepare budgets, estimates, tender docs and construction programmes.
• Support consultant and subcontractor appointment and procurement strategies.
• Present recommendations to senior stakeholders and ensure complete pre-construction information.

Skills

Senior pre-construction experience

Cost planning

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Project management

Leadership

Education

Construction management degree

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Senior Pre-Construction Manager to lead the planning, development and commercial preparation of major construction projects from early concept through to contract award. This role will work closely with clients, consultants, design teams, contractors and internal stakeholders to establish robust project strategies, develop accurate cost plans and ensure schemes are deliverable, commercially viable and aligned with programme, quality and safety objectives.

Key responsibilities will include managing the pre-construction process across multiple projects; coordinating feasibility studies, value engineering, buildability reviews, procurement strategies and risk assessments; preparing and reviewing budgets, estimates, tender documentation and construction programmes; and supporting the negotiation and appointment of consultants, specialist subcontractors and principal contractors. You will monitor design development, challenge assumptions, identify opportunities for cost and programme improvement, and ensure all pre-construction information is complete, coordinated and suitable for delivery. The role will also involve presenting recommendations to senior stakeholders, maintaining clear project records and supporting the transition from pre-construction into construction.

The successful candidate will have significant experience in a senior pre-construction, estimating, commercial or project management position within the construction or property sector. You should possess strong knowledge of procurement routes, contract strategy, construction methodologies, cost planning, design coordination and risk management. Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills are essential, together with the ability to manage competing priorities and lead teams effectively. A relevant qualification in construction management, quantity surveying, engineering or a related discipline is preferred. Commercial awareness, strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving are key to success in this position.