Senior Preconstruction Manager

Wharton-Smith, Inc.; Sanford (FL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Wharton-Smith, Inc. in Sanford, FL is seeking a Senior Preconstruction Manager to lead the preconstruction effort, develop accurate estimates, manage subcontractor relations, and ensure a seamless transition to operations.

Senior level candidates will guide complex pursuits, mentor estimators, and contribute strategically to planning and execution within the Southeast Florida market, including K-12 or government projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field.
• 10–15 years total construction experience with recent preconstruction focus.
• Experience with K-12 or government projects preferred.
• Proficiency in PlanSwift and Excel.
• Strong communication, organizational, and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead preconstruction on projects, develop cost estimates, and manage subcontractor relations.
• Prepare proposals and ensure smooth hand-off to operations.
• Mentor junior estimators and coordinate with stakeholders.
• Lead bid day activities and present costs to owners and architects.

Skills

Estimating & Preconstruction

PlanSwift

Excel

Leadership

Bid strategy

Subcontractor coordination

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field

Tools

PlanSwift

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Senior Preconstruction Manager

Location: Sanford, FL

Wharton-Smith, Inc., a highly regarded and established construction company, is seeking qualified candidates for a Preconstruction Services Manager position. This opening is also available at the Senior Preconstruction Services Manager level for highly experienced candidates. This role is based in our Sanford, FL office and requires strong knowledge of the Palm Beach Gardens construction market.

Position Summary

The Preconstruction Services Manager is responsible for leading the preconstruction effort on assigned projects, developing accurate cost estimates, managing subcontractor relations, preparing proposals, and ensuring a seamless transition to operations. Senior-level candidates will lead more complex pursuits, mentor team members, and contribute strategically to preconstruction planning and execution.

Primary Responsibilities

Estimating & Preconstruction Management

• Prepare detailed estimates across all trades for Lump Sum, Construction Management, and Design-Build projects.
• Develop bid strategies that maximize competitiveness while maintaining budget accuracy.
• Perform comprehensive quantity take-offs using PlanSwift and similar estimating software.
• Use unit cost methods and Excel-based formats to develop conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates.
• Prepare budgets and proposals from all drawing levels (SD/30%, DD/60%, CD/90%).
• Provide constructability reviews and value management recommendations to support project goals.
• Present estimates and cost breakdowns to owners, architects, and project stakeholders.

Subcontractor & Vendor Coordination

• Lead solicitation, scope review, and evaluation of subcontractor and vendor proposals.
• Organize and conduct pre-bid subcontractor meetings and site walkthroughs.
• Select subcontractor/vendor proposals for incorporation into final bids.
• Conduct site visits to assess construction methods and conditions to inform competitive bid strategies.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise and mentor junior estimators assigned to projects.
• Work collaboratively within strict deadlines to support bid-day activities and make timely subcontractor recommendations.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, design consultants, subcontractors, owner representatives, and internal staff throughout the preconstruction phase.
• Lead the Project Hand-off Meeting to ensure comprehensive knowledge transfer from Preconstruction to Operations.

Required Qualifications

Preconstruction Manager Level

• 10-15 years of total construction experience.
• Minimum of the most recent 5+ years in preconstruction (required).
• 5-10 earlier years may be in operations, but candidates must currently be working in preconstruction.

Senior Preconstruction Manager Level

• 15-20 years of total construction experience (20 preferred).
• Minimum of the most recent 10+ years in preconstruction (required).
• The prior 5-10 years may be in operations, depending on total experience.

Additional Requirements

• Current residency in or near Palm Beach Gardens/Southeast Florida with strong knowledge of the local construction market.
• Experience with K-12 or government construction projects (required).
• Proficiency in PlanSwift and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong communication, organizational, and presentation skills.
• Experience with Hard Bid, Construction Management, and Design-Build delivery methods.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• 7-15+ years of estimating experience within the Southeast Florida region.
• Proven ability to lead multiple estimates and pursuits concurrently.
• Computer proficiency in MS Outlook, Word, and additional industry-relevant software.