Water & Wastewater Preconstruction Leader (Estimating & Bids)

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.; Kansas City (KS); On-site; USD 116,000 - 129,100; Full time

Job summary

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. is seeking a Preconstruction Manager to lead estimating, bid strategies, and coordination for water project pursuits. You will partner with owners, design teams, and subcontractors to drive competitive, well-supported proposals.

The role emphasizes strong budgeting, schedule oversight, and risk management across preconstruction activities, with opportunities to train staff and advance within a collaborative, employee-owned culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture or Engineering with 5+ years in estimating or design management.
• In-depth knowledge of construction principles and practices.
• Experience on municipal and/or industrial water and wastewater projects.
• Experience with alternative delivery projects, including cost modeling and GMPs.
• Experience estimating self-perform disciplines, including labor and material pricing.
• Proven experience managing preconstruction for a wide range of projects.
• Strong communication and leadership skills; build trusted relationships.
• Self-starter, motivated, aligned with McCarthy core values.

Responsibilities

• Participate in interviews and interview prep for negotiated bids, acting as Bid Captain and leading estimate/bid meetings.
• Build and maintain relationships with owners, subcontractors, vendors, internal clients and stakeholders.
• Track and manage project budgets and cost data.
• Prepare qualifications for projects aligned with contractual obligations and submit for legal review.
• Implement and oversee preconstruction and construction schedules.
• Assist in training and development of project staff and manage risk with safety and EEO programs.
• Maintain all documentation/deliverables and present to project owners.
• Represent McCarthy at design and coordination meetings and provide alternative solutions.
• Participate in prequalification, responses to RFPs/RFQs, and buyout log management.

Skills

Estimating

Design management

Field management

Budget management

Preconstruction

Subcontracts

Communication

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture or Engineering

Job description

McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. is seeking a Preconstruction Manager to lead estimating, bid strategies, and coordination for water project pursuits. You will partner with owners, design teams, and subcontractors to drive competitive, well-supported proposals.

The role emphasizes strong budgeting, schedule oversight, and risk management across preconstruction activities, with opportunities to train staff and advance within a collaborative, employee-owned culture.