DescriptionPreconstruction Manager By the time a project breaks ground, the most important decisions have already been made. We're looking for a Preconstruction Manager who is strategic, precise, and people-driven - someone who shapes which projects MCL pursues, how we win them, and how we set every team up to succeed before the first shovel hits the ground.
The title is Preconstruction Manager. The real job is shaping outcomes before construction begins - and building the team that makes it happen.Your Day-to-DayLead Preconstruction and Estimating
- Lead estimating efforts across a diverse portfolio of commercial projects - from early concept through GMP, ensuring accuracy, strategy, and client confidence at every stage.
- Develop detailed cost models, conceptual budgets, and strategic pricing that reflect both market conditions and MCL's approach to delivering value.
- Guide early design collaboration with owners, architects, and engineers - shaping scope, constructability, and cost from the first conversation.
- Oversee workload management, quality control, and deliverable timelines across all active pursuits; set and hold a high standard for the team's output.
- Champion Lean practices, VDC integration, and continuous process improvement to keep MCL at the front edge of how preconstruction gets done.
Build and Mentor Your Team
- Manage, mentor, and develop preconstruction talent - build a team that thinks critically, communicates clearly, and performs at the level this role demands.
- Create a culture of precision and accountability within the preconstruction department; your standard becomes the team's standard.
- Partner with HR and leadership on recruiting and career development to build depth and longevity in the estimating function.
- Serve as a resource and sounding board for project teams post-award - keeping preconstruction connected to what actually happens in the field.
Influence Strategy and Growth
- Play a key leadership role in RFP strategy, pursuit decisions, and client presentations - your voice carries weight in which work MCL goes after and how.
- Partner directly with executive leadership to shape preconstruction strategy, refine processes, and contribute to the company's long-term growth.
- Influence innovation in technology, delivery methods, and estimating approach - this is a seat where ideas get acted on.
The Right FitYou're a strong fit if you:
- 10+ years of preconstruction or estimating experience in commercial construction, with a strong track record across project types and delivery methods.
- 5+ years leading and developing estimating teams - you know how to build people, not just spreadsheets.
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
- Strong command of modern estimating software and construction technology; you stay current because the work demands it.
- Proven ability to balance precision with strategic thinking - you can read a set of drawings and read a room.
- Experience with integrated delivery methods (CMAR, Design-Build, GMP, IPD) and the judgment to position MCL competitively within each.
- A collaborative leadership style that earns trust with owners, architects, internal teams, and the people who report to you.
- Comfort and credibility in client-facing settings: presentations, interviews, early-stage owner conversations - you represent MCL well.
What You're Walking IntoMCL Construction has been delivering exceptional commercial projects across the Midwest since 1987 - and preconstruction is where that reputation starts. It's where trust is built with clients, risks are identified before they become problems, and smart strategy creates the conditions for everything that follows.
In this role, you'll have direct visibility with executive leadership, real influence on project selection, and a clear runway to grow within a stable, expanding organization. Your ideas will shape not just estimates - but how MCL builds. If you want meaningful work with people who hold a high standard and have each other's backs, MCL is the place.
Competitive Compensation Package with benefits including: Employer-paid healthcare premiums • Profit sharing • 401(k) with employer support • Employer-paid short-term disability • And more
You don't just price work. You influence which work we pursue, how we win it, and how we set up every project for success.If that speaks to you, let's talk.
Ready to Shape What Gets Built? 
