Preconstruction Manager

Level: Manager | Type: Direct Hire | Location: Gainesville, FL | Range: $90,000 - $120,000

The role

This role leads the development of accurate, competitive estimates across all phases of design, including conceptual, schematic, and GMP.

The Preconstruction Manager independently manages trade packages, drives subcontractor engagement, and plays a critical role in pricing strategy, risk identification, and value engineering. You will collaborate with internal teams, trade partners, and clients to deliver high-quality preconstruction services and ensure project success from concept through contract.

What you will own

• Prepare detailed estimates across schematic, design development, and construction document phases
• Perform accurate quantity takeoffs and pricing analysis with minimal oversight
• Develop and manage trade-specific scopes of work and bid packages
• Analyze subcontractor proposals for completeness, scope alignment, and risk gaps
• Build and maintain comprehensive scope comparison (leveling) sheets
• Support conceptual and budget estimating using historical data and benchmarking
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and vendors
• Lead bid solicitation efforts, including outreach, follow-ups, and coverage tracking
• Evaluate subcontractor qualifications and assist with prequalification processes
• Drive competitive bid coverage and market intelligence insights
• Identify scope gaps, overlaps, and constructability concerns
• Assist in developing value engineering options and cost-saving strategies
• Contribute to risk identification and mitigation planning
• Understand alternates, allowances, and cost impacts
• Mentor and support junior estimators
• Participate in internal estimate reviews and strategy sessions
• Assist in preparing client presentations and estimate narratives
• Provide clear and timely status updates to leadership
• Use estimating software, takeoff tools, and Excel-based models effectively
• Contribute to database pricing updates and process improvements
• Maintain organized documentation aligned with company standards
• Continuously improve workflows and estimating accuracy

What we require

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred
• 1 to 3 years of experience in estimating, project engineering, or a related role within a commercial general contractor environment
• Prior experience managing trade packages or bid scopes
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and CSI divisions
• Proficiency in estimating software (On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, or similar), Microsoft Excel at an intermediate to advanced level, and bid management platforms (BuildingConnected or similar)
• Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, and project documents
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities simultaneously
• Effective communicator with both internal teams and trade partners
• Growth mindset with the desire to advance within preconstruction

What will set you apart

• Decisive and accountable. You make informed calls and stand behind them
• Thrive under pressure, balancing speed with accuracy in fast-moving environments
• Think strategically and analytically, able to see the big picture without missing critical details
• Operate with ownership. You take initiative, remove obstacles, and ensure follow-through
• Communicate clearly and directly, focused on facts, solutions, and alignment
• Driven by results and precision, committed to accurate, complete, and high-quality outcomes

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• Company phone and vehicle allowance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) retirement savings program
• Weekly pay cycle
• Paid training, certifications, and career development

About our client

Our client is a Florida-based construction management firm with locations in Gainesville, Tampa, and Jacksonville. Since 2008 it has grown into one of the fastest-growing firms in the region, leading complex, high-impact projects across the Southeast and the Caribbean, specializing in government, education, healthcare, industrial, institutional, and commercial work. Its teams are known for delivering with consistency, professionalism, and a strong commitment to operational excellence.

The firm has been named one of Florida's Top 100 Places to Work and recognized by Inc. as one of America's fastest-growing private companies, because it invests in its people as much as its projects. That starts with a strong onboarding process, clear expectations, and real opportunities to grow. Whether you are in the field or the office, you will be part of a team that values accountability, problem-solving, and follow-through. The firm plans ahead, stays proactive, communicates early and often, and does the work up front to set its teams and its projects up for success.

Its core values are:

• Can-do attitude
• Ownership mentality
• Responsiveness
• Spirit of excellence

Equal opportunity

Our client is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.