About this role
About the Company
Our client is a well-established, growth-oriented mechanical construction organization with a strong presence across the Midwest. The company is recognized for delivering complex HVAC, piping, and mechanical systems on technically demanding projects. With a reputation built on collaboration, accuracy, and long-term client relationships, this organization continues to invest in its preconstruction capabilities to support continued growth and project success.
About the Position
The Preconstruction Manager plays a critical role in the successful planning and execution of mechanical construction projects. This position is responsible for developing accurate, comprehensive cost estimates and budgets for HVAC and piping projects across a range of sizes and complexities.
Leveraging industry experience and detailed construction documents, the Preconstruction Manager partners closely with project managers, engineers, and external stakeholders to develop conceptual budgets, respond to RFPs, and ensure all estimates align with client expectations and budget constraints. This role places a strong emphasis on estimating accuracy, value engineering, and proactive risk assessment during the preconstruction phase.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop complete project budgets and detailed preconstruction plans
- Prepare conceptual budgets and support RFP responses
- Create comprehensive bids and cost estimates for mechanical (HVAC and piping) projects
- Estimate labor costs, including travel and subsistence when applicable
- Apply value engineering principles to keep projects within client budget limitations
- Validate and confirm the accuracy of all cost estimates prior to submission
- Collaborate with internal teams to determine material quantities and labor requirements
- Compile, organize, and evaluate equipment and subcontractor pricing
- Coordinate with project managers to forecast project durations and sequencing
- Account for inclement weather, risk, and unforeseen conditions in estimates
- Consult internal and external experts on complex or specialized estimates
- Revise cost estimates as project scopes evolve
- Prepare and submit customized cost and budget reports to clients
Requirements
- Ability to read, interpret, and comprehend construction drawings and specifications; basic drafting knowledge preferred
- Strong understanding of plumbing, piping, and mechanical systems
- Advanced computer proficiency, particularly with spreadsheet-based estimating tools
- Experience using file transfer programs for large drawing sets
- Operational knowledge of estimating, project management, and construction scheduling software
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact professionally with clients and internal teams
- Detail-oriented mindset with a strong commitment to accuracy and accountability
Benefits
- Competitive base salary (approximately $130K-$140K)
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Opportunity to work on complex, high-profile mechanical projects
- Collaborative and stable work environment with long-term growth potential
Other facts
About Kimmel & Associates
Kimmel & Associates was formed in 1981 with the goal of providing service-oriented executive search to a group of specialized industries. Since then, we have become the largest industry-specific executive search firm in North America. For more than 40 years, we have been committed to exceeding expectations and providing unparalleled service through dedication, honesty, and stewardship—it’s the Kimmel Standard. Here are the industries we serve: construction (all sectors), renewable & sustainable infrastructure, supply chain, waste & recycling, and automotive.
An Unmatched Commitment to Service
Kimmel & Associates was founded on the principle of serving. We believe that helping people and companies to prosper is our calling, and we are certain that helping companies attract the right people at the right time is how we can serve best. Kimmel employees follow this calling in the community as well, through our Kimmel Goodwill Program, our in-house volunteer network.
Why Kimmel?
Kimmel & Associates has been recognized as the industry leader in executive search for the industries we serve. We partner with clients to become their agents and advocates in the marketplace. We know the right job at the right time changes a candidate’s future, and the right candidate at the right time changes a company’s future. We’ve helped thousands of professionals grow their careers. We recruit. We really recruit.
Experience the Kimmel Difference in Executive Recruiting Today
*Named America's Top 10 "Best Management Consulting Firms"
Forbes, 2016
What you'll do
- The Preconstruction Manager is responsible for developing accurate cost estimates and budgets for HVAC and piping projects. This role involves collaborating with project managers and engineers to ensure estimates align with client expectations and budget constraints.
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