Lead Pre-Construction Manager - Multifamily Projects

At Cortland, we operate with a forward-thinking approach that challenges conventional norms and actively seeks insights beyond traditional industry boundaries. As a recognized leader in the multifamily sector, our focus on performance, innovation, and disciplined execution continues to drive strong growth and market leadership. We are committed to building a best-in-class organization by empowering top talent with the resources, autonomy, and support needed to deliver results and advance their careers in a high-performance environment.



Role Overview

As a Pre-Construction Manger, you will lead new construction, renovation, and Cap Ex projects across a multimillion‑dollar multifamily portfolio. You'll manage project performance, coordinate with internal and external partners, and ensure delivery that meets quality, budget, schedule, and compliance expectations.

Project Coordination & Communication

• Prepare project updates and professional reporting for development teams, senior leadership, and capital partners
• Facilitate communication among Development, Operations, contractors, consultants, and utility providers
• Participate in construction, OAC, and project‑specific meetings, tracking issues and managing documentation
• Support post‑completion issue resolution and report on outstanding items

• Monitor budgets, cost updates, value engineering opportunities, and change order logs to support informed decision‑making
• Administer change orders, pay applications, and contractor progress payments, including draw reviews, invoice approvals, and coordination with lending and internal accounting teams
• Assist with construction contract development and permitting processes

• Monitor contractor performance for schedule, cost, contract conformance, and overall project quality
• Review design documents throughout development to ensure alignment with standards, scope accuracy, and constructability
• Conduct field walks—including box pre‑walks—to verify implementation of design standards and quality expectations
• Track inspections, submittals, RFIs, and construction change directives to maintain project progress and compliance
• Evaluate and report on contractor CPM schedules, identifying risks and driving mitigation strategies

• Manage external consultants (e.g., ADA, envelope, geotechnical) to ensure compliance and best‑practice execution
• Coordinate with utility companies and internal design teams to confirm requirements and ensure timely service readiness
• Provide due diligence on site logistics, phasing, and technical reports during pre‑development

• 5+ years of general contracting or construction experience, ideally in multifamily ground‑up projects
• Bachelor's degree in construction science, engineering, or a related field
• Strong project management capabilities with the ability to lead multiple complex projects simultaneously
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to facilitate effective in‑person and virtual meetings
• Proven ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships with internal teams, contractors, and consultants
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and proactive, with strong task‑management skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and industry‑standard construction software (e.g., Bluebeam, Procore)
• Self‑starter with strong initiative and the ability to thrive in a team‑focused environment
• Willingness to travel as needed