Pre-Construction Project Manager

This position will support our Savannah, GA office.

As a Pre-Construction Project Manager I, you'll coordinate professional design services and deliver cost estimating and technical expertise that shape how clients see Samet from day one.

You'll own take-offs, cost estimates, and subcontractor bid coverage while collaborating with architects and engineers — building the pre-construction fundamentals that support every successful project start.

What You'll Do

• Perform take-offs and develop quantities for conceptual and preliminary cost estimates using computer-based estimating software.

• Prepare and complete accurate conceptual, preliminary, and contract cost estimates, including general conditions, site development, and building systems.

• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and designers to understand project design concepts and requirements.

• Review and analyze design documents for accuracy, completeness, and constructability.

• Set up and execute vendor/subcontractor bidder solicitation to ensure adequate bid day coverage (goal of three bids per trade).

• Create and maintain strong subcontractor and vendor relationships to provide a competitive advantage.

• Assist in preparing proposal responses for strategic project pursuits.

• Attend planning and kickoff meetings with project development staff to review project scope and develop project approach.

• Provide weekly project status information to the Sr. Director of Pre-Construction Services to meet proposal deadlines.

• Facilitate communication and coordination between design teams, subcontractors, and internal project teams.

• Prepare written scopes of work and technical specifications for the procurement of design and consulting services.

• Determine and prepare value engineering or alternative cost proposals for client review and consideration.

• Document meetings and prepare written correspondence to ensure project scope clarity and team accountability.

• Coordinate with administrative staff to make plans and specifications available through internal systems and plan rooms.

• Schedule and monitor completion of design documents from design partners.

• Identify potential risks and challenges related to cost estimating and design integration, and develop mitigation strategies.

• Assist and attend sales presentations to prospective clients as required.

• Participate in project turnover meetings to effectively transfer projects from pre-construction to construction.

• Maintain and update historical cost data to support future estimates and improve department efficiency.

• Stay current with industry trends, building codes, regulations, and innovative construction approaches.

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from a four-year college or university, or two to four years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Understanding of building codes, regulations, and construction processes.

• Knowledge of construction project delivery methods (Design-Build, Design-Bid-Build, Construction Manager at Risk).

• Experience with cost estimating principles and quantity take-off procedures.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint), Zoom, and Microsoft Teams.

• Experience with estimating software (MC² or similar platforms preferred).

• Knowledge of scheduling software (Primavera, Sure Trak, or similar).

• Familiarity with project collaboration platforms and BIM technologies.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and resolve cost- and design-related issues.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills to convey complex technical concepts to various stakeholders.

• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects…