Preconstruction Manager

Preconstruction Manager

HWA Construction is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented preconstruction Manager to own the estimating, budgeting, scope development, and preconstruction planning process for high-end custom residential projects. This role works closely with owners, architects, interior designers, engineers, subcontractors, and HWA’s internal team to establish realistic project budgets, define scope, evaluate constructability, and align design decisions with the client’s goals and financial expectations.

The Preconstruction Manager is responsible for preparing and presenting Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) budgets, developing detailed estimates as projects progress, leading preconstruction meetings, identifying value-engineering opportunities, and helping clients understand the cost and feasibility of their desired scope. This person must be able to translate complex construction costs into clear, practical information that allows clients and design teams to make informed decisions.

The ideal candidate combines strong estimating and construction knowledge with financial judgment, problem-solving skills, and excellent client-facing communication. This person takes ownership of the preconstruction process, anticipates challenges, and helps establish a clear, well-coordinated project scope and budget before transitioning the project to the construction team.

The Company

HWA Construction is a Los Angeles-based builder of custom luxury homes. We are hospitality-driven, commercially disciplined, and residentially focused. We bring the organization, accountability, and execution of commercial construction to every home while treating each client with the care and attention of a five-star hotel.

We collaborate with some of Los Angeles’ most respected architects and designers to deliver exceptional homes through a commitment to service, transparency, and quality. Our clients value the experience as much as the finished product, and we believe that delivering an outstanding client experience starts with a well-organized, thoughtful, and transparent process from the very beginning.

At HWA, we value our team and believe that a strong company culture, clear communication, and individual accountability are essential to delivering exceptional results for our clients.

Website: https://www.hwaconstruction.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hwaconstruction/

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Unlimited paid time off (PTO)
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Company cell phone
• Work laptop
• Collaborative team environment with opportunities for professional growth

Responsibilities

• Estimating & Budget Development: Prepare ROM budgets and detailed construction estimates for custom homes, additions, and major remodels. Develop cost breakdowns by construction division and cost code, incorporating subcontractor pricing, materials, labor, allowances, and other project costs. Maintain accurate estimates as plans, specifications, and scope evolve.
• Client Budget Presentations: Present estimates and ROM budgets to clients. Help clients understand the relationship between design decisions, project scope, and overall budget while setting realistic expectations and communicating cost implications.
• Preconstruction Meetings & Design Coordination: Lead and participate in preconstruction meetings with owners, architects, interior designers, engineers, and other consultants to establish project scope, priorities, budget expectations, constructibility and feasibility.
• Value Engineering & Budget Alignment: Identify and present cost-saving alternatives that align with the client’s priorities while maintaining design intent and HWA’s quality standards.
• Subcontractor & Vendor Pricing: Solicit and evaluate bids initial bids from subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors. Review proposals for scope coverage, pricing, exclusions, and completeness; investigate discrepancies; and coordinate with trade partners to establish accurate, comparable pricing.
• Coordination & Handoff: Coordinate with the Project Manager to support continuity between preconstruction and construction.
• Client Experience & Communication: Maintain clear, proactive, and professional communication throughout preconstruction. Build trust through timely follow-through, and a solutions-oriented approach that reflects HWA’s hospitality-driven culture.

Requirements / Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred; equivalent relevant experience will be considered.
• 2-5+ years of experience in construction estimating, preconstruction, project management, or a related role, preferably involving high-end custom residential construction.
• Demonstrated experience preparing construction estimates, ROM budgets, and cost breakdowns for complex residential projects.
• Strong understanding of construction costs, subcontractor scopes, building materials, construction methods, construction sequencing, and residential building systems.
• Ability to read architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, finish schedules, and other construction documents.
• Experience soliciting and evaluating subcontractor bids, comparing proposals, identifying scope gaps, and validating pricing.
• Demonstrated ability to lead client-facing budget presentations and explain complex cost information clearly and professionally.
• Strong financial acumen, analytical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.
• Highly organized, proactive, and able to manage multiple projects, estimates, deadlines, and competing priorities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $100,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Construction: 2 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Los Angeles, CA 90020 (Required)

Work Location: In person