Preconstruction Manager

At Horwitz, we don't just offer jobs-we build careers. For over 100 years, we've been a leader in HVAC, plumbing, electrical services, delivering exceptional service while fostering a supportive and innovative workplace. Joining our team means working with passionate professionals in a culture built on safety, accountability, professionalism, motivation, curiosity, and a can-do attitude.

We're committed to your growth with training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities. Along with competitive benefits-you'll be part of a company that values its employees and makes a positive impact in the community. Join Horwitz and become part of a legacy of excellence and opportunity.

Position Overview: The Preconstruction Manager at Horwitz leads all preconstruction activities to ensure projects are accurately scoped, competitively priced, and strategically positioned for success from concept through turnover. This position oversees estimating, proposal development, design coordination, and client engagement to deliver clear, cost-effective, and constructible solutions. The Preconstruction Manager collaborates closely with Account Executives, Project Managers, Engineers, and Clients to maintain relationships, pursue opportunities, and support the Get-It Team. The role embodies Horwitz's core values: Safe, Accountable, Professional, Motivated, Can Do, and Curious.

Key Responsibilities: These responsibilities generally describe the nature of the position and may not be all inclusive:

Client Development & Relationship Management

Maintain strong working relationships with assigned clients and general contractors. Identify and develop new project opportunities through ongoing communication and networking. Serve as the primary point of contact during the preconstruction phase-representing Horwitz with professionalism and integrity. Understand client organizational structures to identify key decision-makers and maintain long-term partnerships. Participate in business development and client entertainment activities as appropriate.

Preconstruction Leadership

Manage all phases of preconstruction efforts from bid invitation through project turnover. Lead estimating and proposal teams in developing comprehensive bids, budgets, and RFP responses. Coordinate with design partners and internal engineers to ensure constructability, efficiency, and alignment with client goals. Guide internal teams through design reviews, scope evaluations, and value engineering opportunities. Ensure deliverables are accurate, on time, and aligned with Horwitz standards of quality and presentation. Direct supervision of preconstruction project engineers and estimators. Provide leadership, mentorship, and oversight to ensure consistent processes and high-quality deliverables.

Estimating & Cost Planning

Oversee the development of conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Collaborate with estimators to review drawings, clarify scopes, and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotes. Monitor market conditions, labor rates, and material pricing to maintain up-to-date cost knowledge. Review proposals for accuracy, risk, and profitability prior to submission.

Internal Collaboration

Partner with Project Managers and Operations teams to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction to project execution. Actively participate in internal meetings, including turnover, labor planning, and lessons-learned sessions. Support the coordination of design-assist, design-build, and early-engagement projects. Mentor Preconstruction Project Engineers and Estimators, providing guidance and professional development.

Reporting & Continuous Improvement

Track project win/loss metrics, estimate accuracy, and preconstruction performance indicators. Contribute to company-wide process improvement initiatives, estimating tools, and proposal templates. Support leadership in forecasting revenue and backlog related to preconstruction opportunities.

Perform other duties as assigned. Conduct yourself in accordance with Horwitz core values: Safe, Accountable, Professional, Motivated, Can Do, and Curious. Get better every day.

Skills and Abilities:

Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust internally and externally. Advanced understanding of mechanical, plumbing, and construction systems. Proficiency in estimating software (e.g., QuoteSoft, Trimble, or similar) and Microsoft Office Suite. Excellent written and verbal communication skills for client presentations and proposals. High attention to detail, organization, and accuracy. Ability to manage multiple bids, deadlines, and client accounts simultaneously. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a proactive mindset.

Education/Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, or related field required. 7-10 years of experience in mechanical preconstruction, estimating, or project management. Proven success leading design-assist and design-build projects. Experience managing client relationships and delivering competitive proposals in the MEP industry.