MEP Preconstruction Manager / Design Phase Manager
Trueline · Minneapolis, MN · United States · Hybrid
Pay: USD 113,500 – 170,300 a year
Posted Sep 29, 2026
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Trueline, one of the largest and most respected builders in the country, is seeking an MEP Preconstruction Manager (Design Phase Manager) to join their team in Minneapolis, MN, on a hybrid schedule. You'll lead the design phase on complex commercial projects, with an emphasis on electrical systems, owning MEP estimating, designer and trade partner selection, scheduling, design development, and commissioning planning, with base salaries reaching $170,300 in Minneapolis and up to $187,300 in select markets, plus an incentive plan.
Minneapolis is the focus, but outstanding candidates in other markets are encouraged to apply, and relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate. The right person pairs deep MEP and preconstruction expertise with a humble, team-first approach and wants a long-term home at a company with work booked through 2030.
What You'll Do as the MEP Preconstruction Manager:
Manage the design phase for one or more concurrent commercial projects, including estimating, business partner selection, preliminary scheduling, design development, quality control, and MEP commissioning planning
Work closely with owners to define project expectations and the critical success factors to focus on during design
Facilitate the solicitation, selection, and contracting of designers on design-build projects
Develop and lead the preparation and presentation of project proposals
Build detailed design-phase and baseline construction schedules
Lead construction planning, including the contract manual, subcontractor selection, MWD/BE participation, trade and site utilization, disruption avoidance, and owner direct purchase planning, using Lean Design Delivery principles and BIM/VDC technology
Guide design teams to build constructability and logistics solutions into the design, and provide meaningful input on programming and conceptual design
Lead estimating team members on the technical design side, including drawings, specifications, scheduling, and cost documentation
Manage design-phase costs through estimate preparation, technical estimating, value engineering, life-cycle analysis, and budget management
Secure regulatory approvals, meet risk management requirements for insurance, bonding, owner contracts, and subcontractor terms, and implement LEED tracking and analysis
Supervise, mentor, and develop Design Phase Engineers, including work direction, performance evaluations, and hiring decisions
Set the tone for exceptional customer relationships, gather feedback throughout design, and help identify future project opportunities
Must-Haves as the MEP Preconstruction Manager:
Bachelor's degree in Construction, Architectural, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, or a related field
10+ years of construction experience
5+ years of estimating or on-site project management experience, including 1-2 years as a Preconstruction Manager
Thorough knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and low-voltage systems
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