Preconstruction Manager

Position Type: Full-Time 

Pay Range: $140K to $160K 

Position Summary 

Southern Mechanical is seeking an experienced Preconstruction Manager. In this role, you will lead and manage the preconstruction process for multi-family construction projects, from contract issuance project turnover to operations. This role partners with clients, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and internal teams to develop accurate budgets, schedules, scopes of work, and value engineering solutions that position projects for successful execution. 

The Pre-Construction Manager serves as the primary link between Estimating, Purchasing, Fabrication, Field Operations, and Project Management, ensuring that every project is thoroughly planned before construction begins.  

The ideal candidate is highly organized, collaborative, and experienced in estimating, constructability reviews, procurement strategies, and client relationship management. 

Benefits 

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 
• Company-Paid Basic Life Insurance 
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability 
• 401(k) Retirement Plan 
• Paid Holidays 
• Paid Time Off (PTO) 
• Professional Development & Career Growth Opportunities 

Key Responsibilities 

Preconstruction Leadership 

• Lead the complete preconstruction process from contract through project handoff 
• Develop and maintain preconstruction schedules, milestones, and deliverables 
• Coordinate all preconstruction activities across estimating and operations 
• Ensure projects remain aligned with client goals, budget, and schedule 

Estimate & Contract Management 

• Review of Estimate, Proposal, and Contract to assure  
• Manage subcontractor prequalification and bid solicitation 
• Analyze bid results and prepare bid leveling comparisons 
• Support subcontractor selection and procurement recommendations 

Risk Management 

• Identify contractual and commercial risks
• Review owner and subcontract agreements
• Evaluate insurance and bonding requirements
• Identify labor market constraints 
• Assess schedule risks 
• Review liquidated damages provisions 
• Evaluate procurement and supply chain risks 
• Develop risk mitigation strategies before project award

Project Planning 

• Assist with logistics planning and site utilization strategies 
• Evaluate project risks and recommend mitigation strategies 
• Coordinate project turnover meetings with project management teams 

Collaboration 

• Work closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, Estimators, and Executives 
• Support continuous improvement of preconstruction processes and standards 
• Mentor preconstruction staff as needed 

Documentation Review and Turn Over to Operations 

• Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documents for completeness and accuracy 
• Lead formal project turnover meetings with Operations  
• Transfer complete estimating files and supporting documentation
• Review scope assumptions, exclusions, and clarifications
• Communicate procurement strategies and long-lead items  
• Review project budgets and labor assumptions 
• Ensure Operations receives a complete and accurate project handoff

Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred 
• 7+ years of construction experience, preferably in the Multi-family industry, with at least 3 years in a preconstruction or estimating leadership role 
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and building systems 
• Experience with conceptual estimating and negotiated work 
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings 
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills 
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Bluebeam 
• Experience with platforms such as Procore, BuildingConnected, or Autodesk  

Core Competencies 

• Leadership 
• Strategic Planning 
• Cost Management 
• Constructability Analysis 
• Value Engineering 
• Client Relationship Management 
• Negotiation 
• Risk Assessment 
• Communication 
• Problem Solving 
• Time Management 
• Team Collaboration 

Success Measures 

The Preconstruction Manager will be evaluated on: 

• Accuracy of project budgets and estimates 
• Timely completion of preconstruction deliverables 
• Client satisfaction and repeat business 
• Successful transition of projects to operations 
• Quality of subcontractor engagement and procurement 
• Identification of cost savings and value engineering opportunities 
• Win rate on negotiated and competitive pursuits 

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to visit active construction sites 
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds 
• Ability to travel to client meetings and project locations as required 

Working with our Company:  

Founded in 1992, Southern Mechanical is an operated company headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. With over 23,000 multifamily units completed and extensive experience in light commercial construction, we have built a reputation for quality, reliability, and exceptional service throughout the Southeast and Midwest. We are committed to investing in our people and creating opportunities for long-term career growth. 

We maintain a drug-free workplace and are committed to ensuring a safe, healthy, and productive environment for all employees and customers.  

We hope this information helps you make an informed decision as you consider your next employer.  

The company is committed to inclusive hiring practices. As an equal opportunity employer, we consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.