Pre-Construction Manager, Institutional - Education Sector | General Contractor | Hayward, CA -

Pre-construction Manager

The Pre-construction Manager will oversee planning, estimating, and budgeting phases of construction projects from concept through GMP or final bid submission. The successful candidate will be based on-site at the Hayward, CA office and will join a market-leading general contractor specializing in Educational construction projects (K-12 & K-14). This role plays a critical part in setting projects up for financial and operational success through accurate cost forecasting, value engineering, and strong collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.

Must Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 7+ years of progressive estimating and/or preconstruction experience in educational or commercial construction, including at least 3 years in a leadership role
• Experience with various delivery methods including Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, and CM at Risk
• Strong knowledge of CSI divisions, building systems, and current market pricing
• Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., OnScreen Takeoffs, Procore) and Microsoft Office Suite
• Proven ability to prepare detailed conceptual and hard bid estimates using historical data, market trends, and subcontractor input
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines
• Collaborative leadership style with the ability to mentor, guide, and influence cross-functional teams

Nice to Haves

• Direct experience in Educational construction projects (K-12 & K-14)
• Strong subcontractor network within Northern California
• Familiarity with advanced project management tools and digital takeoff technologies
• Experience driving departmental process improvements and resource planning
• Knowledge of local jurisdictional requirements and California building codes

Responsibilities

• Manage the full preconstruction process for assigned projects, from concept through contract award
• Develop and present guaranteed maximum price (GMP) proposals, cost models, and budgets
• Lead bid solicitations, subcontractor outreach, and scope leveling
• Partner with clients, architects, engineers, and consultants to evaluate design documents and provide cost-saving solutions
• Lead preconstruction meetings, ensuring alignment on budget, scope, and schedule
• Identify opportunities for value engineering without compromising design intent or quality
• Conduct constructability reviews to identify risks and recommend cost-effective alternatives
• Provide comprehensive handoff to project teams with schedules, procurement plans, and budget baselines
• Evaluate potential project risks and develop mitigation strategies
• Ensure estimates comply with company policies, safety standards, and all applicable codes/regulations
• Maintain accurate and organized estimate documentation for reference and auditing
• Mentor and support estimating staff and junior team members, contributing to their professional development