Senior Preconstruction Manager

gpac; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Annual bonus opportunities

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance and wellness programs

401(k) retirement plan and profit‑shar

Generous paid time off

Collaborative, family-friendly work

Career development opportunities

Job summary

GPAC LLC is seeking a Senior Preconstruction Manager in St. Louis, MO to lead preconstruction strategy, develop budgets, and build strong client relationships. The role blends mechanical engineering expertise with business development to deliver cost-effective solutions.

The position requires 10+ years in mechanical construction preconstruction, with experience in HVAC, piping, and sheet metal systems, and proficiency in estimating software. On-site collaboration and leadership are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience.
• 10+ years in mechanical construction preconstruction, estimating, design, cost control, or project development.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, process piping, and sheet metal systems.
• Experience with design-build and design-assist project delivery methods.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and construction estimating software.
• Strong communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual and detailed budgets for HVAC, plumbing, process piping, and sheet metal systems.
• Review drawings, specifications, and requirements to establish pricing and scope.
• Collaborate with owners, architects, engineers, and contractors to develop cost-effective mechanical solutions.
• Identify value engineering opportunities, constructability improvements, and project risks.
• Coordinate mechanical design efforts and support sustainable building initiatives.
• Lead preconstruction to operations transitions and mentor team members.

Skills

HVAC knowledge

Piping systems

Budgeting

Estimating

Client relations

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Estimating software

Job description

Build Your Future in Mechanical Construction!

We are seeking a Senior Preconstruction Manager to lead preconstruction strategy, develop competitive project budgets, build strong client relationships, and collaborate with project teams to deliver cost-effective mechanical solutions. This position is ideal for a professional who combines technical expertise with business development skills and a passion for building successful projects.

Key Responsibilities

Preconstruction & Project Development

• Develop conceptual and detailed budgets for HVAC, plumbing, process piping, and sheet metal systems.
• Review construction drawings, specifications, and project requirements to establish accurate pricing and project scope.
• Collaborate with owners, architects, engineers, and contractors to develop cost-effective mechanical solutions.
• Identify value engineering opportunities, constructability improvements, and potential project risks.
• Coordinate mechanical design efforts and support sustainable building initiatives when applicable.

Business Development & Client Relations

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with owners, architects, engineers, and general contractors.
• Participate in client presentations, project interviews, and business development activities.
• Communicate the value of proposed mechanical solutions and help secure negotiated projects.
• Build lasting client relationships through responsive communication and exceptional service.

Estimating & Budget Management

• Prepare and maintain conceptual budgets and preconstruction estimates.
• Coordinate with vendors and subcontractors regarding pricing, equipment selection, and technical requirements.
• Evaluate project risks and communicate findings to senior leadership.
• Support estimating teams with final pricing, bid development, and project pursuit strategies.

Project Transition & Leadership

• Lead project turnover meetings to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction to operations.
• Communicate project budgets, schedules, scope requirements, and assumptions to project management teams.
• Support project managers during construction as needed.
• Mentor team members, encourage professional development, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 10+ years of experience in mechanical construction preconstruction, estimating, design, cost control, or project development.
• Strong knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, process piping, and sheet metal systems.
• Experience with design-build and design-assist project delivery methods.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and construction estimating software.
• Strong communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent analytical, budgeting, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• LEED accreditation.
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) license.
• Knowledge of building automation systems, energy management, commissioning, and value engineering.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive compensation package.
• Annual bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life insurance and wellness programs.
• 401(k) retirement plan and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Generous paid time off.
• Collaborative, family-friendly work environment.
• Strong commitment to professional development, career advancement, and work-life balance.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This is an opportunity to influence project success before construction begins, strengthen key customer relationships, and play a significant role in business development and operational performance. You'll have the ability to apply your mechanical construction expertise while helping shape project strategy, improve profitability, and support long-term client partnerships.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, age, color, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable laws or regulations.

GPAC (Growing People and Companies) is an award-winning search firm specializing in placing quality professionals within multiple industries across the United States since 1990. We are extremely competitive, client-focused and realize that our value is in our ability to deliver the right solutions at the right time.