Commercial Preconstruction Manager

Commercial Preconstruction Manager – Indianapolis, IN

In this role, you will lead a team responsible for preparing accurate preconstruction cost estimates and project budgets aligned with project designs—supporting smart, timely decision‑making across our commercial development pipeline.

Thompson Thrift is an integrated, full‑service real estate company engaged in the development, construction, leasing, and management of high‑quality communities nationwide. We’re committed to building exceptional places — and developing the people who make them possible.

• Values‑Driven Culture — Excellence, Service, and Leadership guide everything we do
• Career Growth — Training, mentorship, and long‑term development opportunities
• Work‑Life Support — Competitive benefits, flexibility, and wellness programs
• Real Impact — Hands‑on involvement in industry‑leading projects

As a Preconstruction Manager, you will lead and support a team focused on construction estimating, budgeting, and early project planning for commercial construction projects. You will partner with Development Management, Construction, architects, engineers, and trade partners to ensure project estimates are complete, competitive, and aligned with Thompson Thrift’s quality standards, processes, and business goals.

This role is ideal for a proven estimating or construction professional with strong leadership capability, deep knowledge of construction means and methods, and a passion for building high‑performing teams that deliver accurate budgets and better project outcomes.

• Lead a team in preparing preconstruction cost estimates and budgets aligned with project designs
• Analyze construction drawings, specifications, and documentation to develop time, cost, labor, and material estimates
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners—including vendors, general contractors, and subcontractors—to develop accurate budget estimates and resolve scope questions
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors on design changes and cost adjustments
• Prepare, evaluate, and recommend vendors, general contractors, and subcontractors during selection and bid processes
• Support civil and architectural design coordination in partnership with the Development Management team
• Evaluate cost effectiveness of products, services, and solutions; track estimate accuracy as projects evolve
• Support and demonstrate effectiveness in the buyout process
• Maintain tendering processes, support negotiations, and assist with contractor/subcontractor vetting
• Conduct site evaluations to understand access, drainage, topography, and availability of utilities and services
• Engage with local authorities and jurisdictions to confirm applicable codes, rules, and regulations—ensuring estimates are complete and compliant

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management or a related field

• 4+ years of experience in construction estimating, preconstruction, or construction operations

• Diversified understanding of construction means and methods, including a basic understanding of project scheduling, cost accounting, and estimating practices
• Ability to break down construction operations into logical sequences of activities
• Exceptional analytical, problem‑solving, organizational, and time management skills
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify discrepancies
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a customer‑service mindset across multiple internal divisions
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and consistently meet deadlines
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint)
• Ability to perform work with a high degree of latitude and ownership