Senior Preconstruction Services Manager *****
Wharton-Smith, Inc. · Sanford, FL · 3 mo ago
ManagementFull-time
Position Summary
The Preconstruction Services Manager is responsible for leading the preconstruction effort on assigned projects, developing accurate cost estimates, managing subcontractor relations, preparing proposals, and ensuring a seamless transition to operations. Senior-level candidates will lead more complex pursuits, mentor team members, and contribute strategically to preconstruction planning and execution.
Primary Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed estimates across all trades for Lump Sum, Construction Management, and Design-Build projects.
- Develop bid strategies that maximize competitiveness while maintaining budget accuracy.
- Perform comprehensive quantity take-offs using PlanSwift and similar estimating software.
- Use unit cost methods and Excel-based formats to develop conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates.
- Prepare budgets and proposals from all drawing levels (SD/30%, DD/60%, CD/90%).
- Provide constructability reviews and value management recommendations to support project goals.
- Present estimates and cost breakdowns to owners, architects, and project stakeholders.
Subcontractor & Vendor Coordination
- Lead solicitation, scope review, and evaluation of subcontractor and vendor proposals.
- Organize and conduct pre-bid subcontractor meetings and site walkthroughs.
- Select subcontractor/vendor proposals for incorporation into final bids.
- Conduct site visits to assess construction methods and conditions to inform competitive bid strategies.
Team Leadership & Collaboration
- Supervise and mentor junior estimators assigned to projects.
- Work collaboratively within strict deadlines to support bid-day activities and make timely subcontractor recommendations.
- Cookordinate with architects, engineers, design consultants, subcontractors, owner representatives, and internal staff throughout the preconstruction phase.
- Lead the Project Hand-off Meeting to ensure comprehensive knowledge transfer from Preconstruction to Operations.
Required Qualifications
- Preconstruction Manager Level: 10-15 years of total construction experience. Minimum of the most recent 5+ years in preconstruction (required).
- Senior Preconstruction Manager Level: 15–20 years of total construction experience (20 preferred). Minimum of the most recent 10+ years in preconstruction (required).
- Current residency in or near Palm Beach Gardens/Southeast Florida with strong knowledge of the local construction market.
- Experience with K–12 or government construction projects (required).
- Proficiency in PlanSwift and Microsoft Excel.
- Strong communication, organizational, and presentation skills.
- Experience with Hard Bid, Construction Management, and Design-Build delivery methods.
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field.
Additional Requirements
- 7–15+ years of estimating experience within the Southeast Florida region.
- Proven ability to lead multiple estimates and pursuits concurrently.
- Computer proficiency in MS Outlook, Word, and additional industry-relevant software.