Pre-Construction Design Manager

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Salary Range: $140000-$180000

JOB TITLE: Pre-Construction Design Manager

BUSINESS SERVICE LINE: Pacific Construction

REPORTS TO: Construction Program Manager

SUMMARY:

As a Pre-Construction Design Manager you will play a critical role in shaping project success by leading design coordination constructability analysis cost planning and schedule development during the pre-award and early execution phases of construction projects. Leveraging deep knowledge of design-build and design-bid-build delivery methods you will collaborate closely with owners designers estimators and operations teams to ensure projects are strategically planned accurately priced and positioned for efficient execution. Your ability to integrate design intent with construction means and methods will be central to mitigating risk controlling cost and achieving client objectives.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Pre-Construction Planning and Strategy:

• Assume a lead role in defining project scope design intent and pre-construction objectives in alignment with client requirements and organizational strategy.
• Direct pre-construction planning efforts including design development milestones cost modeling and schedule sequencing.
• Evaluate delivery methods (Design-Build Design-Bid-Build CM-at-Risk) and recommend optimal approaches based on project constraints.
• Identify technical schedule and cost risks early and develop mitigation strategies to support successful project outcomes.
• Establish pre-construction benchmarks performance metrics and deliverables to guide project development.

Design Management and Coordination:

• Serve as the primary liaison between design consultants estimating teams and construction operations during pre-construction.
• Lead design reviews to ensure alignment with constructability phasing safety and lifecycle cost considerations.
• Facilitate interdisciplinary coordination meetings to resolve design conflicts and ensure completeness of contract documents.
• Ensure design packages comply with applicable codes standards client requirements and federal contracting criteria.
• Oversee value engineering and alternatives analysis to optimize cost schedule and performance without compromising quality.

Cost Estimating and Schedule Development:

• Collaborate with estimating teams to develop conceptual schematic and detailed cost estimates throughout design progression.
• Validate quantities assumptions and pricing strategies to ensure accuracy and competitiveness.
• Lead development of pre-construction schedules including phasing plans long-lead procurement and milestone tracking.
• Support proposal development including technical narratives pricing assumptions and risk registers.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication:

• Cultivate strong working relationships with clients designers subcontractors and internal stakeholders.
• Clearly communicate design status cost impacts risks and recommendations to executive leadership and clients.
• Prepare and deliver pre-construction reports presentations and briefings to support informed decision-making.
• Proactively manage stakeholder expectations throughout the design and pre-construction lifecycle.

Transition to Construction:

• Support seamless transition from pre-construction to execution by coordinating handoff of design intent estimates schedules and risk strategies.
• Participate in early construction planning procurement strategies and subcontractor engagement.
• Provide ongoing design and technical support during early phases of construction as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in Construction Management Engineering Architecture or a related field.
• 10 years of demonstrated experience in pre-construction design management and estimating complex construction projects valued at $20M
• Strong understanding of federal construction projects including regulatory contracting and compliance requirements.
• Proven ability to interpret design documents and integrate construction means and methods into planning decisions.
• Exceptional communication coordination and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency with estimating tools scheduling software and design coordination platforms.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with a strategic mindset.
• Ability to manage multiple pursuits or projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional certifications (DBIA CCM PE AIA or similar) are preferred.
• Must be able to pass background check.
• Must possess valid drivers license.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Predominantly office-based with site visits during pre-construction and early execution phases.
• Prolonged periods of sitting and computer use.
• Occasional standing walking bending or lifting light materials.
• Moderate noise levels typical of an office or active construction environment.

COMPETENCIES:

• Demonstrates commitment to diversity equity and inclusion in all professional interactions.
• Upholds the highest ethical standards and organizational values.
• Exhibits strong interpersonal skills discretion and collaborative problem-solving abilities.
• Exercises sound judgment and decision-making grounded in data and experience.
• Maintains a strong focus on quality accuracy and continuous improvement.
• Promotes a culture of safety risk awareness and proactive planning.
• Communicates effectively in writing presentations and technical documentation.

DAWSON is an Equal Opportunity/VEVRAA federal contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race color religion gender national origin disability status protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

DAWSON offers a best-in-class benefits program including medical dental and vision insurance; a 401(k) program with employer match; paid vacation and sick leave; employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance; an Employee Assistance Program; and a flexible work environment. Additionally employees can choose from several voluntary benefits including critical illness coverage; accident insurance; identity theft coverage; pet insurance and more.

DAWSON gives preference to internal candidates. If no internal candidate meets our qualifications external candidates will be given

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