Preconstruction Project Manager (Rochester, NY)

Become Part of Something Bigger
Rooted in the principles of Unity, Social impact and Craftsmanship, we’ve spent more than 23 years breaking systemic barriers, transforming communities and delivering excellence. Every project we undertake goes beyond bricks and mortar; it’s about creating places and spaces that inspire, empower and uplift. Based in Rochester, N.Y., with expanding operations in Ithaca, we specialize in subcontracting, general contracting and real estate development—bringing expertise and innovation to commercial, multifamily and residential construction projects.

As an award-winning New York State Certified MWBE, we’re committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging [DEIB] within the industry, leading the charge toward a more representative construction landscape. People focused and purpose driven, we partner with like-minded organizations to deliver workforce development, skilled trades training and employment opportunities, fostering economic empowerment and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive. By working with us, you’ll become part of a team that values your contributions and craftsmanship while providing opportunities for growth and development. And whether it’s through our charitable initiatives or community-serving projects, you’ll find that being part of USC Builds means being part of something bigger—an organization dedicated to delivering excellence and driving meaningful change.

Position Summary:
The Preconstruction Project Manager (PCM) is responsible for bridging the gap between the estimating/preconstruction phase and the active construction phase. Reporting directly to senior leadership, the PCM ensures that critical project data, budgets, documents, and materials are accurately translated and communicated to the project management and field teams. This role is pivotal in preventing scope discrepancies, budget overruns, and communication breakdowns—thereby setting each project up for success before ground is ever broken.

The Preconstruction Project Manager role is designed to eliminate the gaps in critical information and process that can sometimes occur between finalizing an estimate and beginning active construction. This position is critical for ensuring USC Builds delivers on its promises to clients—from financial accuracy and contract compliance to on time, high quality project execution.


Key Responsibilities:

• Buyout Meeting Coordination & Documentation
  • Attend all GC/USC Builds buyout meetings alongside estimating, project management, and executive stakeholders.
  • Capture comprehensive notes, highlight risk items, and document critical project information (e.g., schedules, budgets, submittal requirements).
• Contract Review & Alignment
  • Thoroughly review the final contract (including scope, schedules, and commercial terms) to ensure alignment with the estimate and project intent.
  • Communicate any discrepancies between the contract and estimating assumptions to relevant stakeholders for resolution.
• Budget Setup & Cost Code Translation
  • Work directly with the estimating team to understand cost codes, scope definitions, and allowances.
  • Translate estimated costs and scope details into construction budgets in Foundation or similar project management/accounting software.
  • Verify that cost codes and budgets match the project’s contract requirements.
  • Prepare QuickBid and On Screen Takeoff files for project teams.
• Submittal Package Creation
  • Collaborate with the Purchasing Manager and Project Manager to assemble a comprehensive submittal package for each project (e.g., materials, product data, shop drawings).
  • Ensure submittals align with client/GC specifications, building codes, and project schedules.
• Project Kickoff Coordination
  • Organize and lead a formal kickoff meeting with the Estimator, Project Manager, and Foreman (and other relevant team members).
  • Present all key information—including budgets, scope, schedule milestones, and any specialized requirements—to ensure alignment and clarity.
• Field Verification & Measurement
  • Oversee the process of verifying actual field measurements (for example, dimensions for metal framing or specialized materials) to validate or adjust quantity takeoffs.
  • Coordinate any revisions to material orders or labor forecasts based on real?world conditions.
• Initial Mobilization & Team Coordination
  • Collaborate with the Project Manager and Field Manager to confirm labor resources, equipment needs, site logistics, and safety requirements.
  • Ensure site is prepared for Day 1 mobilization, including permits, temporary utilities, and initial scheduling of subcontractors.
• Project Documentation & File Management
  • Set up and maintain a dedicated Microsoft Teams (or similar) project folder.
  • Upload and organize all essential documents (contract, schedule, budget, submittals, RFI logs, etc.) for easy access by the entire project team.
  • Continue to refine and update project folders throughout the handoff process.
• Information Transfer & Issue Escalation
  • Serve as the main conduit between estimating/preconstruction and construction.
  • Identify, track, and escalate potential project risks or discrepancies to upper management when necessary.
• Continuous Improvement
  • After each project kickoff, solicit feedback from the field team, estimator, and PM on the handoff process.
  • Recommend process enhancements to improve future transitions from preconstruction to construction.

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent work experience in commercial construction will also be considered.
• 3 years of experience in estimating, project engineering, or project management within the construction industry.
• Drywall, carpentry and acoustical experience preferred.
• Familiarity with construction project management software (e.g., Foundation, Procore, or similar).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 suite, including Teams and Excel for cost tracking and scheduling.
• Knowledge of construction contracts, budgeting, and cost-coding best practices.
• Experience with estimating technology similar to On Screen Takeoff or Quickbid preferred.
• Key Competencies:
  • Detail Oriented: Able to spot and reconcile discrepancies in estimates, contracts, and field conditions.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication for documenting buyout meetings, leading kickoff sessions, and coordinating with diverse teams.
  • Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining accurate records.
  • Problem Solving: Proactive in identifying potential scope or budget issues and recommending solutions.
  • Team Player: Skilled in cross-functional collaboration between estimating, operations, field management, and executive leadership.
• Soft Skills & Leadership:
  • Demonstrate initiative and a proactive approach to ensuring a seamless project handoff.
  • Flexible and adaptable under tight deadlines and changing project circumstances.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, fostering cooperative working relationships across departments.

• Early-to-Mid Experience (3–5 Years Relevant Construction Background)
  Annual Salary Range: $75,000 – $88,000 
  • These candidates typically have solid estimating or project engineering exposure, plus some direct involvement with preconstruction processes.
• Mid-to-Senior Experience (5–10 Years, Strong Drywall/Acoustical Expertise)
  Annual Salary Range: $90,000 – $105,000 
  • This tier is for professionals who can handle complex preconstruction tasks with minimal oversight, have substantial client-facing experience, and can help refine handoff processes for multiple projects simultaneously.

• 10 paid vacation days annually
• 6 paid holidays
• 56 hours paid sick days
• 70% employer-paid health, dental and vision plan coverages (employee responsible for co-pays and out-of-pocket expenses)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 401(k) plan w/up to 4% employer match*
• $10,000 life insurance policy
• Professional development
• Short- & Long-term disability
• $100 annual credit for Boot Program when eligible
• Company credit card provided
• Company cell phone, iPad and laptop will be provided
• Company apparel
• Company/Team events

*Must be 21 years old and continuously employed full-time with the company for one year to receive this benefit.

Salary : $75,000 - $88,000