What are the responsibilities and job description for the Preconstruction Manager position at NGS?
Position Summary
The Preconstruction Manager is responsible for leading all preconstruction and estimating functions for our nationwide window film and graphics projects serving major retail, commercial, and branded environments.
This role oversees project development from initial client inquiry through final proposal — ensuring accurate budgets, constructability reviews, and coordinated bid submissions that align with design intent, brand standards, and client rollout timelines.
The Preconstruction Director serves as the bridge between sales, design, estimating, procurement, and operations, providing strategic leadership that optimizes cost, quality, and speed-to-market for high-volume, multi-site programs.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Management
- Lead, mentor, and develop a preconstruction team including estimators, bid coordinators, and project planners.
- Establish standardized estimating procedures, cost databases, and proposal templates.
- Drive continuous improvement across estimating accuracy, speed, and quality.
Preconstruction Oversight
- Manage all preconstruction activities from concept to contract for window film, signage, and architectural graphics projects.
- Review project scopes, drawings, and specifications to identify key risk and value opportunities.
- Collaborate with sales, account management, and design to align cost and schedule expectations early.
- Ensure bid compliance with client brand standards and site requirements.
Estimating & Cost Management
- Develop conceptual and detailed cost estimates for material, labor, logistics, and subcontracted services.
- Oversee subcontractor and supplier engagement to ensure competitive, accurate pricing.
- Maintain historical cost data and track industry pricing trends for films, adhesives, and substrates.
- Evaluate alternatives and value-engineering options to reduce cost and improve install efficiency.
Bid Strategy & Client Engagement
- Lead go/no-go evaluations and bid strategy meetings with executives.
- Present estimates, budgets, and schedules to clients and internal leadership.
- Coordinate RFP responses and ensure professional, compelling bid submissions.
- Serve as the preconstruction point of contact for key retail clients, ensuring responsiveness and reliability.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with design and production teams to review feasibility, installation methods, and site logistics.
- Coordinate with operations to align preconstruction deliverables with field execution needs.
- Support procurement with vendor negotiations and national account partnerships.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- 10 years of experience in preconstruction, estimating, or project management — ideally within:
- Architectural films, signage, branding, interior finishes, or specialty trade construction.
- 3 years in a senior leadership or management role overseeing multi-site projects.
- Proven experience with national retail or multi-location programs.
Technical Skills
- Proficient in estimating and project management software (e.g., Bluebeam, Procore, Excel, Smartsheet, or similar).
- Strong understanding of take-offs, pricing models, and installation methods for window film and graphics applications.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and branding guidelines.
- Knowledge of logistics, scheduling, and subcontractor coordination across U.S. regions.
Soft Skills
- Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation abilities.
- Strategic thinker with hands-on problem-solving skills.
- Detail-oriented with a strong sense of accountability and follow-through.
- Capable of balancing multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Performance Metrics
- Bid accuracy and profitability vs. actual job cost
- Preconstruction schedule adherence and response times
- Client satisfaction and repeat business rate
- Team performance and development milestones