Job Description

Our client, a nationally recognized Design-Build Contractor with more than $500M in annual revenue, is seeking a Director of Preconstruction to lead their preconstruction and estimating organization out of their Birmingham, MI office.

This is a strategic, high-impact leadership role shaping early project planning, client strategy, budgeting, and pursuit execution across a diverse portfolio of commercial, multifamily, industrial, and mission-critical projects nationwide.

What You’ll Lead

As Director of Preconstruction, you will guide the full preconstruction lifecycle—setting strategy, driving accuracy, strengthening client alignment, and ensuring all pursuits start with rock-solid clarity and direction.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a multi-level team of estimators and preconstruction managers.
• Oversee workload, performance, hiring, onboarding, and long-term skill development.
• Build a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Preconstruction Strategy & Execution

• Direct conceptual estimating, detailed estimates, cost modeling, VE efforts, schedule alignment, and project feasibility.
• Develop and implement best practices, standardized workflows, and competitive pursuit strategies.
• Partner closely with business development and operations to ensure win themes, scope strategy, and project deliverables are aligned.
• Lead the transition from preconstruction into project execution.

Client, Design, & Partner Collaboration

• Engage early with clients, architects, and engineers to ensure alignment on scope, constructability, and cost expectations.
• Lead client-facing preconstruction presentations and strategy discussions.
• Oversee subcontractor outreach, scope reviews, bid packages, and early procurement strategy.

Cost, Risk & Quality Oversight

• Ensure accuracy and consistency of all estimates, budgets, and preconstruction documents.
• Identify cost, design, scheduling, and procurement risks and develop mitigation plans.
• Continuously elevate the use of preconstruction tools, technology, and historical cost data.

Cross-Functional Leadership

• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on market trends, cost escalation forecasting, and procurement intelligence.
• Contribute to long-term company strategy, growth planning, and operational alignment.
• Represent the firm in client interviews, key pursuits, and strategic industry relationships.

Supervisory Scope

You will oversee a preconstruction department that includes:

• Junior, mid-level, and senior estimators
• Preconstruction managers
• VDC/BIM support
• Rotational project engineers

You’ll manage recruiting, training, performance reviews, workload planning, and long-term team structure.

What We’re Looking For

• 10–20+ years of experience in commercial, industrial, or design-build construction with a strong track record in preconstruction, estimating, and early-phase project strategy
• Proven experience leading preconstruction or estimating teams , including hiring, mentoring, workload management, and performance development
• Deep expertise in conceptual estimating, budgeting, value engineering, design-phase coordination, and subcontractor engagement
• Strong understanding of design-build delivery , cost modeling, risk evaluation, and early procurement strategy
• A strategic thinker who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and can influence decisions at the executive level

What’s on Offer

💰 Compensation: Competitive base salary of $150,000- $200,000 + performance-based bonus

📈 Profit Sharing: Annual company profit share available at the leadership tier

🏖 Time Off: 4+ weeks PTO + paid holidays

❤️ Benefits: Best-in-class healthcare package (including family coverage options)

🚗 Perks: Company vehicle or allowance, 401(k) with company match, and leadership team events

🏢 Impact: High-visibility role with direct influence on project strategy, team development, and company growth

📍 Location: Birmingham, MI — modern, upscale office environment with strong executive presence

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