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Preconstruction Manager

EMJ Construction

Job Location:

Chattanooga, TN - USA

Monthly Salary: Not provided by the employer

Posted: 10 August 2026 (14 hours ago)

Application Deadline: 7 November 2026

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

About EMJ

At EMJ we are more than just General Contractors we are People Serving People. With over 50 years in business and a reputation as a recognized leader in the construction industry we strive to provide unique value and an unmatched client experience by living our core values: Selflessness Trustworthiness and Grit.

Position Summary
The Preconstruction Manager (PCM) at EMJ Construction leads the project team through decision-making planning and execution phases creating value for clients as a key member of our Client Experience (CX) teams. This role is responsible for building and maintaining strong relationships with clients architects engineers trade partners and suppliers while closely collaborating with Project Managers and Superintendents to ensure a seamless transition from preconstruction to project execution. The PCM must embody EMJs core values and promote a collaborative solutions-focused team environment. This role is based in Chattanooga TN.

What You Will Be Doing in This Role:

Relationship Building

Build lasting relationships by demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity.
Foster trust and confidence through open frequent communication.
Understand client values and align project activities to enhance the overall client experience.

Risk Management & Constructability

Identify and mitigate project risks through creative collaborative problem-solving.
Ensure accurate and timely documentation to support profitability and client satisfaction.
Partner with Project Managers and Superintendents to evaluate constructability and develop risk mitigation plans.

Project Leadership & Coordination

Lead the project team through preconstruction efforts with a focus on execution readiness.
Facilitate Owner-Architect-Contractor (OAC) meetings and distribute timely documentation.
Mentor team members while aligning project schedule safety and quality goals.
Document opportunities for added project value.

Budgeting & Estimating

Prepare accurate detailed budgets from conceptual through final design stages.
Collaborate with design consultants to maintain project vision while offering value-engineering insights.
Support project execution with complete bid packages and cost breakdowns.

Due Diligence & Coordination

Manage site investigations due diligence efforts and design document reviews.
Align lease and end-user requirements with design budget and schedule.
Oversee entitlement and permitting processes.

Validation Constructability Analysis & Value Management

Maintain design alignment with budget scope and schedule through regular updates.
Evaluate systems for efficiency and cost-saving opportunities.
Conduct thorough constructability reviews and manage preconstruction RFIs.

Bid Preparation

Develop bid strategies and clear bid instructions.
Lead subcontractor and supplier outreach to ensure comprehensive bid coverage.
Prepare detailed estimates and bid tab analyses.
Present bid results and strategic recommendations to clients.

Buyout Support

Prequalify trade partners and suppliers using Compass.
Lead scope reviews and trade partner negotiations.
Prepare and track Subcontracts Purchase Orders and Owner Contracts.
Lead estimate review and formal project handoff to Project Manager and Superintendent.

During Construction

Support project teams in monitoring cost and profitability throughout execution.
Participate in monthly Project Status Reports (PSRs).
Assist with conflict resolution and maintaining client and partner relationships.

Project Close-Out

Participate in post-project reviews and trade partner surveys.
Document lessons learned and update historical cost data.
Collaborate on capturing key takeaways for future projects.

What You Will Need For This Role:

Bachelors Degree in Architecture Engineering Construction Management or a related field (preferred).
Minimum of 5 years of relevant construction experience.
Strong ability to define expectations prioritize and meet deadlines.
Expertise in LEED and sustainability building codes and entitlements due diligence and tenant coordination.
Proficiency in reading and analyzing soils reports and other technical project data.
Working knowledge of building systems site work and construction cost components.
Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office Procore On-Screen Takeoff Viewpoint and EarthWorks.
Willingness to travel up to 20%.

EMJ offers competitive pay and benefits a strong work/life balance a best-in-class office environment and a culture that recognizes and rewards entrepreneurial spirit.

EMJ is an EOE and E-Verify employer.

Required Experience:

Manager

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