Director of Preconstruction

Director of Preconstruction – Multifamily & DSA EducationLocation: Irvine, CA Employment Type: Full-Time | Onsite Project Type: Multifamily, K-12, and Higher Education ConstructionPosition OverviewA leading Southern California general contractor is seeking an experienced Director of Preconstruction to lead estimating and preconstruction efforts for multifamily and DSA education projects in the Irvine market. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing conceptual estimating, budgeting, value engineering, and client engagement while supporting business development and strategic growth initiatives.The ideal candidate brings strong experience in ground-up multifamily and DSA-regulated school construction, along with the leadership ability to manage teams and maintain strong relationships with owners, developers, architects, and school districts.Key ResponsibilitiesPreconstruction LeadershipLead all preconstruction and estimating activities from conceptual design through GMP development.Oversee budgeting, quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and value engineering efforts.Develop and implement preconstruction strategies to support successful project delivery.Review plans and specifications for constructability, logistics, and risk analysis.Multifamily & DSA ExpertiseManage preconstruction efforts for multifamily, podium, wrap, and mixed-use residential projects.Lead budgeting and planning for DSA-regulated K-12 and higher education projects.Ensure compliance with public works and DSA standards during preconstruction phases.Client Relations & Business DevelopmentBuild and maintain strong relationships with developers, school districts, architects, and consultants.Participate in interviews, proposals, and project pursuits.Support strategic growth initiatives and help secure repeat business opportunities.Operational & Team LeadershipLead and mentor estimators, preconstruction managers, and support staff.Collaborate closely with operations, project management, and executive leadership teams.Establish best practices and standardization across preconstruction efforts.Financial & Strategic OversightSupport bid strategy, subcontractor engagement, and procurement planning.Monitor market trends, escalation factors, and subcontractor pricing.Provide executive-level reporting and forecasting support.Qualifications10–15+ years of experience in preconstruction, estimating, or operations leadership.Strong experience with multifamily and DSA/K-12 construction projects.Deep understanding of conceptual estimating, GMP development, and value engineering.Proven leadership experience managing preconstruction teams.Existing Southern California industry relationships strongly preferred.Excellent communication, presentation, and organizational skills.Proficiency with estimating software, Bluebeam, Procore, and related tools.