Preconstruction Manager / Conceptual Estimator

Job: Preconstruction Manager / Conceptual Estimator

Location: Lenexa, KS

Build Your Future with GBA Builders

The Preconstruction Manager / Conceptual Estimator helps lead all preconstruction activities related to new business pursuits and proposal development. This role is responsible for guiding the preconstruction team through the pursuit phase, delivering accurate cost estimates, schedules, and risk assessments that position the company competitively while remaining realistic and executable. This role partners closely with business development, marketing, estimating, project management, design partners, and senior leadership to develop compelling proposals that clearly demonstrate the company’s ability to deliver successful projects.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Provide oversight, coaching, and/or development support to preconstruction managers, project managers, estimators, and interns, as needed.

What You’ll Do

• Support preconstruction and conceptual estimating efforts for strategic pursuits, ensuring proposed solutions are competitive, feasible, and aligned with company standards.
• Develop high level rough orders of magnitude (ROMs) at 0-30% design milestones while working closely with our A/E partners and pursuit team.
• Collaborate with the pursuits team, business development, and project executives to align pursuit strategies with client objectives, project goals, and market conditions.
• Develop and review preliminary project schedules and milestones, coordinating with project management to validate constructability and feasibility.
• Identify and assess potential risks early in the pursuit process and ensure they are accurately reflected in pricing, scheduling assumptions, and mitigation strategies.
• Participate in the development and delivery of technical proposals and client presentations, highlighting company expertise, value, and experience.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, A/E partners, consultants, and key project stakeholders throughout the pursuit phase.
• Preparation of project handoff materials to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction to project execution.
• Monitor industry trends, market conditions, and emerging technologies to keep pursuit strategies innovative and competitive.
• Support company revenue goals by contributing to a contracted backlog that meets or exceeds established targets.
• Travel to and from job sites as needed to support field operations.
• Operating a motor vehicle on behalf of the company as an essential function of the role.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field, with 8+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience directly or indirectly supervising staff with increasing levels of responsibility.
• Strong background in project scheduling and conceptual estimating.
• Proven estimating and buyout experience.
• Fundamental understanding of contract terms, with demonstrated ability to negotiate effectively with vendors, subcontractors, and other stakeholders
• Biotech/Pharmaceutical experience preferred but not required
• OSHA 30-hour Certification required
• GC experience preferred

Technical Skills & Abilities

• Exceptional listening, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to lead complex discussions and drive sound decision-making.
• Advanced ability to interpret and analyze complex data, construction plans, drawings, and specifications.
• Deep knowledge of construction means, methods, and estimating principles.
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and follow-through.
• Ability to learn and understand unique client needs. Sometimes “out of the box” solutions are required.
• Be able to take vague verbal and written information and produce a high-level budget and/or schedule.
• Collaborative approach when working with superintendents, project managers, architects, engineers, and corporate services teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (advanced Excel skills preferred) and preconstruction tools such as On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, Pantera, or similar software.
• Demonstrates emotional intelligence by anticipating team dynamics and adapting communication styles to build trust and collaboration.
• Models emotionally intelligent leadership and mentors others in navigating interpersonal challenges and maintaining team morale.
• Actively participates in the Immersive EQ program with a focus on improving identified development areas.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
• Ability to walk active construction sites for extended periods, as required.

Travel

• Occasional travel to job sites for pre-bid meetings, approximately once per month.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

At GBA Builders, you’ll be part of a team that values integrity, safety, and innovation. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life, accident, and disability coverage
• 401(k) with company match
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness initiatives
• Paid company holidays, floating holidays, and flexible time off
• Opportunities for training, professional growth, and advancement

Join Our Team

If you’re a motivated construction professional who takes pride in delivering safe, high-quality work, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and build your future with GBA Builders.

At GBA, we are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer promoting diversity in our workforce by including all individuals regardless of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, veteran status, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law.