Preconstruction Project Manager, Commercial Construction

Position Summary

At Pepper Construction Wisconsin, preconstruction is more than estimating. It is strategic project leadership that shapes outcomes long before construction begins. We are seeking a collaborative, client-focused Preconstruction Project Manager who can guide projects from early concept through turnover with a deep understanding of cost, constructability, market conditions, building systems, and client priorities.

What You’ll Do

• Lead preconstruction efforts from conceptual design through GMP development and project turnover
• Partner with clients and design teams to establish project goals, budgets, schedules, and operational priorities
• Develop conceptual, schematic, design development, and detailed estimates from limited or evolving information
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs manually and electronically
• Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documents to identify cost drivers, constructability concerns, and opportunities for optimization
• Lead value analysis and value engineering discussions while maintaining design intent and project goals
• Develop detailed scopes of work by trade and manage bid packaging strategies
• Conduct constructability reviews and building systems evaluations
• Analyze market conditions, labor trends, material escalation, and procurement risks
• Level, analyze, and descope trade partner proposals
• Collaborate with operations and field leadership to align planning with execution strategies
• Support business development and project pursuit activities

Leadership & Collaboration

• Build strong relationships with clients, architects, engineers, trade partners, and internal teams
• Communicate clearly and confidently with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Lead meetings and facilitate productive conversations that drive alignment and decision-making
• Mentor and support less experienced team members
• Promote a collaborative, solutions-oriented culture grounded in Pepper’s values

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred
• 5–10 years of commercial construction experience with significant preconstruction leadership responsibilities
• Strong client-facing communication and relationship management skills
• Deep understanding of conceptual estimating, constructability, cost planning, and project phasing
• Proficiency with Destini, WinEst, or similar estimating platforms
• Experience with Revit and BIM coordination preferred
• Experience in healthcare, higher education, office, industrial, manufacturing, life sciences, hospitality, interiors, K-12, or retail preferred