Preconstruction Manager

Location: Arlington, VA 22203.

About the role

At Vivmark Residential, we develop communities that create long-term value for our residents, associates, and investors. We're seeking a Preconstruction Manager to play a critical role in shaping the success of our development pipeline by leading cost estimating, value engineering, and constructability analysis from project pursuit through completion. This is an opportunity for an experienced construction professional to influence major multifamily development projects, partner with senior leaders across Development, Design, Capital Projects, and Construction, and help drive informed investment decisions through data-driven cost analysis and market expertise. This role operates in a professional office environment with periodic travel to regional offices and active construction sites as needed to support assigned projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead Project Estimating: Develop and manage conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates for multifamily development projects. Produce Pursuit, Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 estimates with a high degree of accuracy and market awareness. Maintain cost benchmarks and leverage historical data to support forecasting and decision-making.
• Drive Value Engineering & Cost Optimization: Lead value engineering efforts throughout all phases of design. Analyze drawings, specifications, and bid documents to identify cost drivers, risks, and opportunities. Present recommendations and cost impacts to project teams and senior leadership.
• Support Development Decisions: Perform project-level cost analyses and constructability reviews that inform investment decisions and development pro formas. Identify and escalate key issues that could impact project feasibility, schedule, or budget.
• Collaborate Across Functions: Partner closely with Development, Design, Capital Projects, and Construction teams to ensure plans are complete, coordinated, and constructable. Serve as a trusted advisor on cost, scope, and construction strategy throughout the design process.
• Manage Trade Partner Bidding & Buyout Support: Support trade contractor procurement efforts through bid analysis and proposal evaluation. Assist project teams in making informed buyout decisions and negotiating cost-effective solutions.
• Improve Future Project Performance: Conduct post-construction cost reviews and lessons learned analyses. Capture and share findings that improve future estimating accuracy and project outcomes. Contribute to continuous improvement of preconstruction processes, tools, and best practices.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of construction estimating, preconstruction, or related experience.
• Strong understanding of building systems, construction methods, site development costs, and constructability principles.
• Experience producing detailed cost estimates across multiple stages of design.
• Proficiency with estimating and takeoff tools such as Bluebeam, PlanSwift, STACK, Autodesk Takeoff, On-Screen Takeoff, or similar platforms.
• Strong analytical, communication, and presentation skills.