Director, Preconstruction

Job Summary

We are one of the leading mechanical contractors in the eastern United States. Our construction and service (mechanical and electrical) experience includes a broad range of commercial and government projects, including data centers, hospitals, sports stadiums, convention centers, hotels, and research laboratories.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Leadership & Strategy
• Afford strategic leadership and oversight for all preconstruction services related to mechanical construction projects, including HVAC, plumbing, piping, and process systems.
• Develop and implement preconstruction strategies that align with company growth, profitability targets, and market positioning.
• Refine standards, processes, and best practices for estimating, budgeting, and proposal development.
• Mentor and develop team members, fostering a high-performance, collaborative culture.
• Estimating & Cost Management
• Oversee preparation of conceptual, schematic, design development, and GMP estimates for mechanical systems.
• Ensure accuracy, completeness, and competitiveness of bids and proposals.
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and other documentation to prepare detailed cost estimates.
• Manage risk analysis, contingency planning, and cost validation processes.
• Lead value engineering efforts to optimize project costs while maintaining quality and performance.
• Client & Business Development
• Collaborate with business development and operations teams during project pursuits and presentations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, general contractors, engineers, and owners.
• Participate in proposal interviews, presentations, and negotiations.
• Support market research and identify new opportunities in target sectors (e.g., healthcare, data centers, industrial).
• Preconstruction Execution
• Lead constructability reviews and coordination with design teams.
• Oversee early-stage project planning, scheduling input, and procurement strategies.
• Direct integration of BIM/VDC for clash detection, purchasing, prefabrication planning, and cost validation.
• Cookordination with purchasing and operations teams to ensure seamless transition from preconstruction to project execution.
• Vendor & Trade Partner Management
• Develop and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and manufacturers.
• Oversee subcontractor prequalification, bid solicitation, and leveling processes.
• Ensure competitive pricing and adherence to scope requirements.
• Process Improvement & Technology
• Implement and optimize estimating software, and digital workflows.
• Continuously improve data analytics, historical cost databases, and benchmarking practices.
• Drive innovation in preconstruction methodologies.
• Financial Oversight
• Review and approve final estimates, budgets, and proposal submissions.
• Monitor preconstruction costs and resource utilization.
• Ensure alignment with company financial objectives and margin expectations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Supply Chain Management or a related field (required).
• 10+ years of experience in mechanical construction, with significant experience in estimating or preconstruction.
• 5+ years in a leadership or management role.
• Deep knowledge of mechanical systems (HVAC, piping, plumbing).
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., Autobid, Trimble a plus).
• Strong understanding of construction documents, codes, and industry standards.
• Strong familiarity with construction contract structures, risk allocation, and industry standards.
• Excellent negotiation, mathematical, and analytical skills.
• Prior in-house experience with a general contractor, construction manager, or large specialty contractor.
• Computer Skills: Must demonstrate proficiency in Autobid, Microsoft Office applications (i.e. Outlook, Word and Excel).
• Advanced end-user of Excel. Working knowledge of project and financial software a plus.

Required Attributes

• Practical, business-oriented preconstruction judgment.
• Ability to balance estimate risk with operational realities.
• Ability to manage high volume, high value preconstruction deliverables under tight deadlines.
• Must demonstrate integrity, honesty, professionalism, and appropriate concern regarding dissemination of sensitive and confidential information.
• Must demonstrate the ability to work well in a team-oriented work environment and flexibility to take on added responsibilities when department demands present with additional workload.
• Must demonstrate professional self-discipline and initiative in performing work, attention to detail, and committed to performing work within specified deadlines.
• Must prioritize and organize work in a fast-paced multi-tasking environment.
• Must build positive working relationships with multiple levels of employees, management, suppliers, and customers.
• Must demonstrate commitment to company values and safety culture.

Work Environment

• Sit, see, talk, and hear.
• Use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Sit, stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Lift and/or move up to twenty-five (25) pounds.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and provide a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. We are always looking for individuals with the talent and skills required to contribute to our continued growth and success.