What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Preconstruction position at Appleton Finn?
Senior Preconstruction Manager – Industrial (Light & Heavy)
Location: [Confidential] - Georgia
Industry: Industrial Construction (Light & Heavy) – Commercial & Civil Projects
Position Type: Full-Time
About the Company
A leading industrial construction firm with a strong presence in both light and heavy industrial sectors is seeking a Senior Preconstruction Manager to lead and manage the preconstruction efforts for major industrial projects. With a reputation for delivering high-quality industrial facilities across commercial and civil sectors, this firm offers long-term stability, career progression, and a strong project backlog.
About the Role
The Senior Preconstruction Manager will be responsible for leading the preconstruction phase of industrial projects, ensuring accuracy in estimating, budgeting, and procurement. This role involves working closely with clients, ownership groups, and internal teams to drive value engineering, develop cost-effective solutions, and secure projects. The individual will also train and mentor preconstruction staff, supporting the Director of Preconstruction.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all aspects of preconstruction for industrial projects, including preliminary budgeting, value engineering, and procurement strategy.
- Develop accurate conceptual, schematic, and design development estimates.
- Lead subcontractor/supplier bid processes, including prequalification, bid evaluation, and selection.
- Create and manage preconstruction schedules and logistics plans to ensure project success.
- Work closely with owners, engineers, and project teams to ensure cost-effective construction methods are implemented.
- Provide leadership and mentorship to Preconstruction Managers, Engineers, and support staff.
- Maintain strong client relationships and support Business Development efforts in securing repeat work.
- Manage risk by identifying potential cost implications and contractual differences in various project delivery methods (Lump Sum, CMAR, Design-Build, etc.).
- Conduct site visits and feasibility studies to ensure accurate cost projections.
- Ensure accuracy of estimates and proposals, making strategic recommendations to leadership.
- Stay current with industrial construction trends, costs, and technological advancements.
Qualifications & Experience
- 10 years of experience in preconstruction, estimating, or related industrial construction roles.
- Strong background in light and heavy industrial projects (e.g., manufacturing facilities, processing plants, distribution centers, energy infrastructure, water/wastewater facilities, heavy civil industrial sites, etc.).
- Expertise in value engineering, estimating, and cost control within industrial construction.
- Proven ability to develop preconstruction strategies and execute them effectively.
- Strong leadership and communication skills, with experience mentoring and developing teams.
- Proficiency in preconstruction software such as Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, BuildingConnected, Procore, Revit, Agtek, HCSS, and Destini.
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field (preferred but not required with equivalent experience).
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive Base Salary: $150K - $220K (DOE)
- Performance-Based Bonus: 15% - 25%
- Comprehensive Benefits Package (Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K Matching, PTO, etc.)
- Auto Allowance & Gas Card ($8K - $12K)
- Clear Career Progression Path with opportunities for long-term growth
- Company Culture Focused on Work-Life Balance & Employee Retention
Why Join Us?
- Work with a company that has a strong backlog of industrial projects and a clear growth trajectory.
- Be part of a team that values collaboration, leadership, and innovation in industrial construction.
- Enjoy a company culture that prioritizes employee retention, career development, and long-term stability.
- Lead and influence major industrial projects that shape the future of industrial infrastructure.
This is a confidential opportunity. If you are interested in advancing your career in preconstruction with a leading industrial contractor, apply now to learn more.
Salary : $150,000 - $220,000