Senior Preconstruction / CM Lead
Job Description
The Senior Preconstruction / CM Lead is a key member of the preconstruction team, responsible for supporting and leading cost management through the design phase and into field execution. We are looking for a dependable, organized preconstruction professional with real CM-phase experience, solid estimating instincts, and the judgment to grow into a fully independent role.
Estimating:
Prepare phase estimates from concept through construction documents using Sage with eTakeoff; develop quantity takeoffs across primary CSI divisions.
Support GMP proposal preparation including scope leveling, general conditions modeling, and cost narrative development.
Maintain estimate templates, cost databases, and historical benchmarks. Use Bluebeam Revu for digital plan review, markup, and drawing comparisons.
Manage subcontractor solicitation and bid leveling in BuildingConnected.
CM Lifecycle Support:
Pre-Design and SD: Assist in developing ROM budgets and SD-level estimates using sq-ft benchmarks and comparable project data; flag site and program risks early.
Design Development: Prepare DD-level estimates with quantity-based takeoffs; assist with constructability reviews and VE log management; begin early trade outreach on major scopes. CDs and GMP:
Support bid package structuring; level subcontractor proposals; assist in GMP presentation preparation and documentation. Transition to Operations:
Participate in the precon-to-PM handoff; support the buyout process; contribute to reconciliation reporting at project milestones.
Post-Project: Participate in post-project cost reviews and contribute actual cost data to the historical database.
Subcontractor Relationships:
Develop and maintain relationships with union and non-union subcontractors and suppliers across Michigan; be capable of pricing under either labor framework.
Actively solicit and support M/W/SBE trade partners to achieve diversity participation goals. Participate in subcontractor prequalification, including bonding, safety records, and past performance.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or Architecture, or equivalent combination with 6+ years of directly relevant experience.
6 to 8 years of commercial construction estimating or preconstruction experience with some CM-phase exposure.
Full proficiency in every phase is not required on day one.
Experience on commercial projects $10M or greater. Experience with projects $25M+ is a plus.
Some exposure to GMP, CM at Risk, or Design
Assist delivery methods. Full GMP lead experience is a plus but is not required.
Required Software:
Bluebeam Revu: digital plan review, takeoff markup, Studio Sessions. Sage Estimating with eTakeoff: formal estimate production, database management, quantity integration.
Sage-specific proficiency is not required; experience with a comparable estimating platform is acceptable. MS Office 365: advanced Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Familiarity with or openness to Microsoft Copilot and AI productivity tools within M365. BuildingConnected: subcontractor solicitation, bid coverage management, and leveling.
Work Environment:
Hybrid role based out of Detroit, Michigan, with in-office presence as needed. A largely remote arrangement will be considered for the right, seasoned candidate. Regular travel to project sites, client offices, and design team meetings across Metro Detroit and Michigan. Occasional extended hours during active bid deadlines or major proposal submissions.
