Director of Preconstruction

A well-established commercial general contractor in South Florida is seeking a Director of Preconstruction & Estimating to lead and scale all preconstruction operations across the organization.

This executive-level role is responsible for overseeing estimating strategy, conceptual budgeting, value engineering, subcontractor engagement, and financial risk management. The Director will work closely with executive leadership, business development, and operations to secure and successfully launch profitable projects.

The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of the Florida construction market, coastal building requirements, and negotiated/GMP delivery models. This position reports directly to executive leadership and plays a critical role in the company’s growth and profitability strategy.

Key Accountabilities

• Lead and grow the Preconstruction & Estimating Department
• Develop and implement standardized estimating systems, tools, and procedures
• Maintain and improve cost database accuracy and benchmarking processes
• Align preconstruction strategy with company revenue and margin objectives
• Support executive-level pursuit strategy and go/no-go decision-making

Estimating & Budget Overs

• Oversee all conceptual, schematic, design development, and GMP estimating
• Review and validate budgets prior to client submission
• Lead subcontractor bidding and scope leveling processes
• Ensure competitive yet profitable pricing strategies
• Direct value engineering initiatives to maximize project outcomes

Design-Build & Negotiated

• Work partner with Business Development on negotiated and design-build purchases
• Lead early-stage conceptual budgeting and feasibility analysis
• Support GMP development and contract negotiations
• Provide financial risk analysis prior to project management
• Build and maintain strong subcontractor relationships
• Expand and strengthen the qualified bidder pool
• Develop strategic trade partnerships
• Monitor market pricing trends, labor availability, and escalation management
• Lead preconstruction-to-operations handoff meetings
• Ensure scope clarity and risk documentation prior to project launch
• Establish project margin targets and cost controls during preconstruction
• Identify scope gaps, design risks, and escalation exposure
• Provide executive-level forecasting and profitability oversight

Qualifications

• 10+ years of commercial construction estimating experience
• 5+ years in a senior estimating or leadership role
• Strong experience in multifamily, hospitality, mixed-use, or coastal projects
• Demonstrated success with cost-plus and GMP project delivery, design-build experience
• Proficiency in estimating software and cost database systems
• Strong financial acumen with a clear understanding of project P&L and margin protection
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop estimating teams
• Strong communication skills with the ability to lead high-level client presentations