Preconstruction Project Manager, Commercial Construction

With offices in Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Ohio, Pepper Construction is a national general contracting and construction management firm that primarily serves the private sector. Pepper Construction provides clients the experience and resources of a national company, combined with the hands-on approach of a local company. Position Summary At Pepper Construction Wisconsin, preconstruction is more than estimating. It is strategic project leadership that shapes outcomes long before construction begins. We are seeking a collaborative, client-focused Preconstruction Project Manager who can guide projects from early concept through turnover with a deep understanding of cost, constructability, market conditions, building systems, and client priorities. What You'll Do Lead preconstruction efforts from conceptual design through GMP development and project turnover Partner with clients and design teams to establish project goals, budgets, schedules, and operational priorities Develop conceptual, schematic, design development, and detailed estimates from limited or evolving information Perform detailed quantity takeoffs manually and electronically Analyze drawings, specifications, and project documents to identify cost drivers, constructability concerns, and opportunities for optimization Lead value analysis and value engineering discussions while maintaining design intent and project goals Develop detailed scopes of work by trade and manage bid packaging strategies Conduct constructability reviews and building systems evaluations Analyze market conditions, labor trends, material escalation, and procurement risks Level, analyze, and descope trade partner proposals Collaborate with operations and field leadership to align planning with execution strategies Support business development and project pursuit activities Leadership & Collaboration Build strong relationships with clients, architects, engineers, trade partners, and internal teams Communicate clearly and confidently with technical and non-technical stakeholders Lead meetings and facilitate productive conversations that drive alignment and decision-making Mentor and support less experienced team members Promote a collaborative, solutions-oriented culture grounded in Pepper's values Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred 5-10 years of commercial construction experience with significant preconstruction leadership responsibilities Experience leading preconstruction efforts on projects exceeding $10M Strong client-facing communication and relationship management skills Deep understanding of conceptual estimating, constructability, cost planning, and project phasing Proficiency with Destini, WinEst, or similar estimating platforms Experience with Revit and BIM coordination preferred Experience in healthcare, higher education, office, industrial, manufacturing, life sciences, hospitality, interiors, K-12, or retail preferred Why Pepper? Competitive compensation and performance-based rewards Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage 401(k) with company match Student loan repayment assistance Generous PTO, holidays, and floating holidays Professional development and career growth opportunities Collaborative, people-first culture Meaningful work building projects that positively impact communities Pepper Construction is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Please note: Pepper does not sponsor work visas.