Preconstruction Manager Job Description, Key Duties and Responsibilities

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This post presents in-depth information on the preconstruction manager job description, to boost your knowledge of the duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly perform, as well as templates employers can use.

It also highlights the major requirements you may be expected to meet to be hired for the preconstruction manager role by most companies.

What Does a Preconstruction Manager Do?

The preconstruction manager is responsible for minor site development, foundation preparation, and building support systems at the site of a construction project.

They work with all areas of construction to perform preconstruction tasks before any construction or other related work, such as demolition or remediation begins on the site.

The preconstruction manager must communicate daily with the owner, general contractor or architect and be sure that both parties understand the progress of development and what needs to be done in order to proceed with the project.

They manage all government related permits, approvals and building code compliance for the project site.

The preconstruction manager job description also involves designing, preparing, and installing foundation piers, drives, footing systems, foundation walls, and footings with emphasis on the structural engineering aspects of such work.

It also entails surveying existing conditions on the property prior to the start of construction at the site, to provide the basis for site adjustments and clearances that need development during site preparation.

Inspecting available construction equipment to determine which is appropriate for the project is an important duty that preconstruction managers perform.

Preconstruction managers should have a working knowledge of those items.

One of the tasks of the preconstruction manager is the coordination of all laborers, mechanics, and subcontractors on the site in order to perform all preconstruction, staging and scope of work assignments.

Another task they perform is the preparing of site plans of all preconstruction projects and providing them to owners as required.

The preconstruction manager is responsible for performing those duties necessary to coordinate site and utility preparation with the general contractor, architect, and other consultants.

They schedule all projects, identify staffing requirements, and arrange for timely delivery of materials, equipment, and labor.

The preconstruction manager work description also entails preparing the necessary plans, providing training in safe job procedures, and assigning work duties for pre-construction activities.

You need to be familiar with all work safety practices, Occupational Safety and Health Administration rules and regulations, as well as comply with safety requirements set by state laws and the National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) standards.

The preconstruction manager will also be responsible for directing and controlling the work of all laborers and subcontractors at the site, as well as providing physical support of their work.

Preconstruction Manager Job Description Template/Sample/Example

The preconstruction manager job description involves the following duties, tasks, and responsibilities:

Conducting site inspections and pre-planning the construction process
Supervising construction work on site
Preparing contract documents for signing by owners or contractors
Establishing, maintaining, and complying with all applicable safety codes, laws and regulations relating to the construction of the project including, without limitation, OSHA standards, State and local laws and ordinances; fire prevention and fire protection standards; all applicable building codes, plumbing codes, electrical codes and other standards as required by law or regulations; private entity codes; contract specifications; environmental protection requirements; materials handling procedures; requirements for equipment hiring practices and inventory control procedures
Coordinating, monitoring, and administrating the pre-construction activities, including, but not limited to negotiating sub-contractors, materials and equipment procurement, material storage, site development, and construction scheduling
Inspecting pre-construction phases of the project and ensuring quality control has been completed
Overseeing the execution of site work, including but not limited to excavation, foundations, footings, pour of concrete or other approved materials; equipment installation; roof construction; trimming, stapling and siding; dry walling; electrical wiring or mechanical installation as applicable; landscaping and other final site development for residential projects; and routine inspections for completion of all project operations
Designing and reviewing construction documents for the project
Overseeing the inspection of materials to ensure compliance with all applicable codes, specifications and regulations.

Preconstruction Manager Requirements: Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities for Career Success

If you are seeking to work as a preconstruction manager, here are major requirements you may be expected to meet to be hired:

Must be at least 22 and above
Good communication skills
Must be able to work in large build and small build projects, residential or commercial projects
Have experience as a project manager for preconstruction phase of construction
Possess experience as a preconstruction manager
Familiarity with all code requirements and ability to meet deadlines of project completion
Must have extensive knowledge in working with all subcontractors on site
Excellent computer skills and knowledge of software applications, such as AutoCAD, Word, Excel, PowerPoint; as well as browser browsers Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer, Google Chrome or Firefox
Eligible for preconstruction manager license (under the state Licensing Act) issued by the Department of Building Management (DBM).

Preconstruction Manager Job Description Templates

Here are preconstruction manager job description templates employers can simply edit and use in their job postings to attract the best talents to their companies:

TEMPLATE 1.

Position Title: Preconstruction Manager
Reports To: Director of Preconstruction / Vice President of Construction / Chief Estimator
Location: [Your Company Location]
Employment Type: Full-Time

Company Overview

[Your Company Name] is a leading construction and development firm specializing in [commercial, residential, industrial, healthcare, education, multifamily, or infrastructure] projects. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality work through collaborative planning, innovative solutions, and strong partnerships with clients, architects, and trade partners. Our company culture emphasizes teamwork, continuous improvement, and a commitment to operational excellence.

Position Overview

We are seeking an analytical, detail-oriented, and strategic Preconstruction Manager to oversee all preconstruction activities, including budgeting, estimating, planning, and coordination with design and project teams. This role is crucial for evaluating project feasibility, creating accurate cost models, identifying risks, and ensuring smooth transitions into construction.

The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of construction means and methods, strong leadership skills, and the ability to collaborate with clients, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and internal teams.

Key Responsibilities

Preconstruction Planning & Strategy

Lead the preconstruction process from concept through final estimate and project handoff.
Develop project budgets, cost models, feasibility studies, and value engineering proposals.
Participate in conceptual design discussions and provide input regarding constructability, schedule impacts, and cost implications.

Estimating & Cost Management

Prepare detailed estimates, including quantity takeoffs, labor calculations, material pricing, and subcontractor quotes.
Analyze subcontractor bids and ensure scope completeness.
Maintain historical cost data and stay current with market pricing trends.
Identify cost-saving opportunities through value engineering.

Design Review & Coordination

Collaborate with architects, engineers, and consultants to review plans, specifications, and design documents.
Recommend design alternatives that improve cost efficiency, constructability, and performance.
Ensure project designs align with client goals and budget constraints.

Risk Management & Feasibility

Identify potential risks related to budget, schedule, logistics, materials, and labor availability.
Develop mitigation strategies and contingency plans.
Evaluate project feasibility and provide recommendations to leadership.

Bid Management & Procurement

Manage the bid process for subcontractors, including invitation, prequalification, scope review, and award recommendations.
Maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
Prepare bid packages and ensure accurate documentation and compliance.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

Work closely with project managers, superintendents, estimators, and other departments.
Lead preconstruction meetings and communicate project expectations clearly.
Mentor junior estimators and support staff.

Client & Stakeholder Communication

Serve as a primary point of contact during the preconstruction phase.
Prepare and deliver presentations, budget reports, and progress updates to clients and internal leadership.
Ensure high-quality client service and alignment with project objectives.

Project Transition & Handoff

Lead the transition from preconstruction to construction teams.
Provide thorough documentation, cost breakdowns, scopes, schedules, and risk assessments.
Support kickoff meetings and ensure project teams understand all preconstruction deliverables.

Skills & Qualifications

Extensive knowledge of construction processes, materials, building systems, and cost drivers.
Strong estimating skills across multiple disciplines (civil, structural, architectural, MEP).
Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, OST, ProEst) and construction management systems.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
Leadership experience in mentoring teams and collaborating with diverse stakeholders.

Education & Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field required.
5–10+ years of experience in estimating, preconstruction, or project management.
Previous experience with [commercial/residential/industrial] projects preferred.
Professional certifications (LEED AP, CCM, PMP, or AACE certification) are a plus.

Eligibility to Work in the United States

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Work Environment

Office-based role with occasional visits to job sites.
Requires use of computers, estimating software, and digital construction tools.
May involve travel for meetings, site reviews, or subcontractor coordination.
Normal business hours with occasional overtime based on project deadlines.

Equal Opportunity Statement

[Your Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any protected status.

Additional Information

This job description outlines key responsibilities but may not include all duties.
Responsibilities may vary depending on project type and company needs.
Reasonable accommodations can be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities.
Pre-employment background checks or tests may be required.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].

TEMPLATE 2.

Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time

About Us

[Your Company Name] is a leading construction firm specializing in [commercial/residential/industrial] projects. We are seeking an experienced Preconstruction Manager to lead estimating, budgeting, and planning efforts before projects move into construction.

Job Summary

The Preconstruction Manager oversees project budgeting, cost estimating, design coordination, and subcontractor bidding. This role ensures accurate cost models, evaluates project feasibility, identifies risks, and leads all preconstruction activities to support successful project execution.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare conceptual and detailed estimates and cost models
Review plans, specifications, and design documents
Coordinate design meetings and provide value engineering recommendations
Lead subcontractor prequalification, bidding, and scope reviews
Analyze project risks and develop mitigation strategies
Present budgets and updates to clients and internal leadership
Support a smooth transition from preconstruction to construction teams

Qualifications

5+ years of experience in estimating, preconstruction, or construction management
Strong knowledge of construction processes, materials, and building systems
Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, ProEst)
Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field

Eligibility to Work in the U.S.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

How to Apply

Submit your resume to [Insert Email or Application Link].

Preconstruction Manager Job Description for Resume

If you are writing a resume or CV for a new job and have worked before as a preconstruction manager or are presently working in that role, you can apply the sample preconstruction manager job description provided above in making the Professional Experience section of your resume.

You can apply the duties and responsibilities in the above job description in making the Professional Experience part of your resume to show that you have been successful working as a preconstruction manager.

This piece of information can greatly boost the impact of your resume on the employer/recruiter to give you an interview or hire you, especially if the new job that you are seeking requires someone with some preconstruction manager work experience.

(Learn how to make an effective resume applying the Employer-focused Resume Writing Technique)