Preconstruction Director - Underground Utilities

Director of Preconstruction

The Director of Preconstruction leads all aspects of the preconstruction lifecycle for municipal and public-sector infrastructure projects, from early pursuit and capture planning through GMP development and negotiations. This role is responsible for proposal strategy, estimating leadership, and client engagement, with a strong focus on alternative delivery methods such as CMAR and JOC.
As a senior leader in work acquisition, the Director of Preconstruction guides teams, develops scalable processes, and builds long-term client partnerships that carry through from pursuit into construction execution.
Key Responsibilities
Lead preconstruction efforts for CMAR, JOC, and other alternative delivery municipal infrastructure projects.
Direct RFQs, RFPs, proposals, interviews, and GMP negotiations from pursuit through award.
Develop and execute capture strategies for municipal and public-sector clients.
Partner closely with Business Development leadership to expand relationships, improve hit rates, and support long-term growth.
Provide leadership and mentorship to project managers, engineers, and estimators throughout the preconstruction phase.
Establish and standardize preconstruction workflows to improve accuracy, efficiency, and cost control.
Maintain active client engagement from pursuit through construction to ensure continuity and alignment.
Support internal business planning related to market positioning, delivery strategy, and resource planning.
Qualifications & Experience
Extensive experience in preconstruction and estimating within municipal wet utilities or public infrastructure.
Demonstrated leadership capability with strong client-facing and communication skills.
Proven experience with CMAR, JOC, and other public-sector or alternative delivery methods.
Strategic thinker with a strong understanding of pursuit planning, proposal development, and negotiations.
Ability to build, mentor, and scale high-performing preconstruction teams while delivering results.
Work Environment
This position is primarily office-based with periodic travel for client meetings, pursuits, and project collaboration throughout the Phoenix metro area.
Interview Process
As part of the interview process, candidates may be asked to complete a brief behavioral or work-style assessment. Candidates who complete both the application and assessment will receive priority consideration.
Pay Details: $160,000.00 to $195,000.00 per year
Search managed by: Nate Padia Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled Military connected talent encouraged to apply