Preconstruction Manager - Data Centers & Mission Critical

About the Opportunity

LVI Associates are seeking an experienced Preconstruction Manager with hands-on estimating expertise to lead the full preconstruction lifecycle on large-scale data center and mission critical projects. This is a senior-level role for someone who can manage the preconstruction process end-to-end - from first look through GMP execution - while also rolling up their sleeves to produce detailed cost estimates.

The ideal candidate has spent the majority of their career within a general contractor's preconstruction department, is deeply familiar with the unique demands of mission critical construction, and can confidently engage with owners, design teams, trade partners, and internal stakeholders at every stage.

Key Responsibilities

Preconstruction Leadership

• Lead and manage the full preconstruction process across multiple data center projects simultaneously - from conceptual planning through final GMP pricing, lump sum bid, or contract execution.
• Serve as the primary preconstruction point of contact for clients, design teams, and internal operations, ensuring seamless communication and alignment throughout.
• Develop and execute preconstruction strategies including procurement planning, bid packaging, trade partner engagement, and long-lead equipment coordination.
• Attend and lead pre-bid meetings, site visits, and walkthroughs; participate in RFP responses and formal client presentations.
• Facilitate value engineering sessions with project teams and design consultants to optimize cost, schedule, and constructability.
• Provide seamless project turnover to operations and project management teams upon completion of preconstruction activities.

Estimating & Cost Management

• Produce detailed cost estimates at all stages of design - conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction documents - with a focus on accuracy and transparency.
• Perform quantity take-offs and pricing analysis across all scopes of work, including structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems critical to data center facilities.
• Review and level subcontractor and supplier proposals for scope completeness, pricing accuracy, and alignment with current market conditions.
• Develop variance summaries between estimate phases and clearly communicate budget impacts and risk exposures to stakeholders.
• Assemble comprehensive, presentation-ready estimate packages that clearly communicate project cost to clients and ownership groups.
• Maintain and leverage historical cost data to inform future estimates and benchmarking on data center projects.

Data Center / Mission Critical Expertise

• Apply deep knowledge of critical facility systems including generators, UPS, switchgear, transformers, chillers, CRAH/CRAC units, fire suppression, BMS/EPMS, and power distribution infrastructure.
• Understand the unique sequencing, commissioning requirements, and risk profiles associated with mission critical construction.
• Stay current on data center construction trends, emerging technologies, and market dynamics affecting cost and delivery.

Business Development & Client Engagement

• Support pursuit efforts by contributing to proposals, interview presentations, and client relationship development.
• Engage with new and existing clients, trade partners, and industry contacts to strengthen the firm's data center pipeline.
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and networking functions as needed.

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in preconstruction and/or estimating within commercial construction, with a minimum of 5 years focused on data center / mission critical projects (this is non-negotiable).
• Demonstrated ability to manage the full preconstruction process while also producing detailed estimates - this is a dual-function role, not purely managerial.
• Strong working knowledge of data center MEP systems, critical power and cooling infrastructure, and the construction methods unique to mission critical facilities.
• Experience with GMP, CM-at-Risk, Design-Build, and hard bid delivery methods.
• Proficiency in cost estimating software (e.g., MC², On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam, Procore, or equivalent).
• Ability to interpret complex architectural, structural, and MEP drawings and specifications.
• Strong understanding of subcontractor procurement, bid leveling, scope alignment, and trade partner management.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills - comfortable presenting to C-suite and owner groups.
• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with hyperscale data center programs (50MW+) for major operators or developers.
• Familiarity with prefabrication strategies, modular construction, and innovative delivery approaches common in the data center sector.
• LEED AP, DBIA, or CCM certification.
• Established network of trade partner and subcontractor relationships within the data center space.