Director of Preconstruction

Description Mc Gough  is a respected partner that brings six generations of experience to high profile, unique and complex construction projects. We take great pride in our people and their extraordinary expertise in planning, development, construction and facility management. McGough employee tenure reflects the commitment and pride we share in our work. Ask anyone who knows us - the caliber of our people sets us apart.

POSITION DESCRIPTION The Director of Preconstruction leads the Central Minnesota operating unit's preconstruction and estimating functions. Reporting to the General Manager, this role manages the local estimating team and partners with Project Executives to shape pursuits and guide selected projects from concept through GMP.The Director serves as a flexible extension of the Project Executive team. Depending on workload and project needs, the Director may lead preconstruction, provide targeted support, or guide cost planning under Project Executive sponsorship.

The role also drives consistent processes and high-quality deliverables across the operating unit in alignment with McGough enterprise preconstruction and estimating processes and workflows.

QUALIFICATIONS Required

Bachelor's or master’s degree in construction management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field; equivalent experience considered.
15+ years in general contracting, preconstruction, estimating, or project management on large, complex projects.

Experience leading negotiated, CM at Risk, or design-build preconstruction from concept through GMP.Five or more years leading people or functions, including staffing, coaching, performance, and workload.

Experience managing estimates and working knowledge of concept budgets, cost models, general conditions, contingencies, bid analysis, and procurement.

Broad knowledge of building systems, MEP, constructability, logistics, phasing, procurement strategy, risk management, codes & regulations.

Ability to balance owner, designer, contractor, and trade partner perspectives with commercial discipline.

Strong facilitation, presentation, writing, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a changing, deadline-driven environment.

Preferred Senior level experience in preconstruction, project execution, project management, estimating, or target value design.

Experience across multiple building types and market sectors (Healthcare, Life Science, Higher Ed, Corporate, Advanced Manufacturing)

Experience with early site evaluation, entitlements, pro formas, consultant selection, or scope definition.

Experience with Lean, VDC/BIM, design-assist, prefabrication, sustainability, or collaborative planning.

Established Central Minnesota owner, design, and trade partner relationships.

Leadership Competencies
• Strategic judgment for connecting operating unit goals to practical project and staffing decisions.
• Collaborative leadership to build alignment and define accountability for project teams.
• Executive presence for earning trust with Estimators, Project Executives, General Superintendents, clients, and designers.
• Continuous improvement - simplifies work, reinforces standards, and applies data and lessons learned.
• Talent development for providing clarity, feedback, growth opportunities, and accountability to team.
• High integrity for protecting confidences, honoring commitments, and strengthening relationships.

OFFICE AND TRAVEL This role is based at our Headquarters office in Roseville, with regular travel to project sites, client meetings, and McGough offices. Periodic overnight, evening, or weekend commitments are expected.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS Pursuit Strategy and Business Development (15% of time)
Partner with Project Executives,…