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Precon Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Liberty Mutual

Construction Risk Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$94K - $176K/yr

... construction milestones (precon, foundation, structure, MEP rough-in, enclosure, fit-out ... CSP, ARM, CRM, CPCU, CIH, or CPE * Travel may be required About Us Pay Philosophy: The typical ...

Liberty Mutual

Construction Risk Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

... construction milestones (precon, foundation, structure, MEP rough-in, enclosure, fit-out ... CSP, ARM, CRM, CPCU, CIH, or CPE * Travel may be required About Us Pay Philosophy: The typical ...

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Precon Manager information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Precon Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Precon Manager, you need strong project management skills, construction knowledge, and experience in cost estimating, typically supported by a degree in construction management or a related field. Familiarity with software such as Bluebeam, Procore, and estimating tools like Sage Estimating or Timberline is essential. Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities help you coordinate with clients, architects, and subcontractors effectively. These skills ensure accurate project planning, cost control, and seamless collaboration, which are critical for successful project delivery.

What are some common challenges faced by a Precon Manager during the preconstruction phase, and how can they be addressed?

One of the main challenges Precon Managers face is coordinating input from multiple stakeholders, including owners, architects, engineers, and subcontractors, to ensure accurate and timely project estimates. Managing evolving project scopes and incomplete design documents can also complicate budgeting and scheduling. To address these challenges, effective communication, proactive problem-solving, and early involvement of key team members are essential. Leveraging technology, such as project management and estimating software, can also streamline collaboration and improve accuracy.

What is a Precon Manager?

A Precon Manager, short for Preconstruction Manager, is a professional responsible for overseeing the planning and preparation phases of a construction project before actual building begins. Their duties include coordinating with architects, engineers, and clients to develop project budgets, schedules, and scopes of work. They analyze drawings and specifications to estimate costs, assess risks, and ensure that all preconstruction activities align with the client’s goals. By managing this phase effectively, Precon Managers help prevent costly changes and delays during construction. Their expertise is crucial for setting projects up for success.

What is the difference between Precon Manager vs Construction Project Coordinator?

AspectPrecon ManagerConstruction Project Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, or related field; certifications like PMP or CCM are commonOften holds a bachelor's degree in construction management, civil engineering, or related area; certifications are less common but may include OSHA or PMP
Work EnvironmentPre-construction phase, focusing on planning, budgeting, and scheduling before construction beginsDuring construction, coordinating between teams, managing schedules, and ensuring project progress
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by general contractors, construction firms, and project management companies during project planningEmployed by construction firms, contractors, and project teams during active project execution

The Precon Manager primarily focuses on planning, budgeting, and preparing for construction projects, while the Construction Project Coordinator manages daily activities during the construction phase. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in their focus and timing within the project lifecycle.

What are popular job titles related to Precon Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Precon Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Precon Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Precon Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Precon Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Precon Manager job openings:
Precon Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Precon Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 64% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 32% Remote job distribution.
Estimator - Global Facilities/Industrial Construction (Chicago/Downer's Grove)

Estimator - Global Facilities/Industrial Construction (Chicago/Downer's Grove)

Burns & McDonnell

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Burns & McDonnell rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 77 rated construction

Job description

This precon/estimating position will be responsible for leading construction design-build and EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) estimates and proposals for a diverse portfolio of commercial and industrial projects. Working collaboratively with a team of estimators, this role will involve assisting with the preparation of estimates and requires a strong understanding of conceptual estimating. This position will assist clients in making fact-based decisions by presenting accurate estimates in a credible and professional manner while minimizing risk to the company. 

What you will do

  • Work with Estimating and Pre Construction teams to develop estimating strategy and implementation efforts.
  • Drive conceptual estimating.
  • Review and approve project summary schedules for validity.
  • Manage workload scheduling to ensure timely completion of deliverables.
  • Manage risk review process.
  • Responsible for compliance with estimating methodology insuring quality estimates are produced.
  • Lead and/or participate in project team reviews for estimating quantities and scope of project.
  • Responsible for reviewing and approving quotes on bonds and insurance.
  • Review and approve small and disadvantaged business solicitation and evaluations.
  • Lead and/or participate in subcontractor solicitation and pre-qualification reviews.
  • Responsible for reviewing and approving specialty and standard equipment pricing.
  • Review and verify subcontractor bid packages before being transmitted for quotes.
  • Present the estimate to internal and external clients.
  • Responsible for the review of final estimate before management review and proposal presentation.
  • Participate and/or lead estimating teams for completion of pre-construction services.
  • Responsible for cost history, data base management and estimating process.
  • Review and comment on general conditions, indirect costs and review as provided by project management team.
  • Make final recommendations as to fee, contingency and escalation.
  • Provide man hour quotes for required estimating effort.
  • Develop strategy on contract partnering agreements.
  • Prepare and present estimating data for risk review process.
  • Verify and approve estimates for joint venture reviews.
  • Review commercial terms and conditions and address risk issues.
  • Review and validate value engineering items, alternates and options.
  • Responsible for the accuracy and validity of estimate clarifications and assumptions.
  • Review documents for gaps and overlaps in scope of work.
  • Train and mentor staff.
  • OSHA 10-hour certification.
  • Become proficient with InEight estimating software.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management or related field, and 3 years of direct project estimating experience required.
  • Applicable experience may be substituted for the degree requirement. 
  • Ability to work independently or in groups, think creatively and analytically, and make quick and sound decisions.
  • Demonstrated attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office
  • InEight experience preferred.
  • OSHA 10-hour certification required.

EEO/Disabled/Veterans

What Burns & McDonnell employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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