Job Description

Pre-Construction Manager – Building Services (HVAC) Melbourne, VIC

Our client is a well-established Tier 3 Building Services Contractor with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality HVAC solutions across commercial, defence and specialist construction projects throughout Victoria. Due to continued growth and a healthy project pipeline, they are seeking an experienced Pre-Construction Manager to lead the front-end delivery of projects from concept through to handover to operations.

This is a pivotal leadership role where you'll work closely with clients, consulting engineers, architects and internal delivery teams to ensure projects are well-planned, commercially sound and positioned for successful execution.

About the Role
Reporting to the General Manager, you'll take ownership of the pre-construction function, leading estimating activities while acting as the technical and commercial link between clients, consultants and project delivery teams.
You'll be involved from early contractor engagement through to tender submission and project award, helping secure a diverse range of commercial and defence projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the pre-construction and estimating function across multiple HVAC and mechanical services projects.
• Prepare accurate cost estimates, budgets and tender submissions.
• Review drawings, specifications and tender documentation.
• Liaise with consulting engineers, architects, builders and clients during design development.
• Identify value engineering opportunities and provide practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Coordinate pricing from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Manage tender programs and ensure submissions are delivered on time.
• Conduct risk assessments and commercial reviews during the tender process.
• Work closely with Project Managers to ensure a seamless handover following project award.
• Support business development initiatives and attend client meetings where required.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with consulting engineers, contractors and industry stakeholders.

About You
You'll be a commercially astute building services professional who enjoys influencing projects before construction begins.

Ideally you'll bring:

• Extensive experience in estimating, pre-construction or design management within the mechanical services or HVAC industry.
• Strong understanding of commercial building services projects.
• Experience working with consulting engineers, builders and design teams.
• Ability to interpret mechanical drawings and specifications.
• Excellent commercial awareness and contract understanding.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A collaborative leadership style with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Mechanical Engineering qualification or relevant trade background (highly regarded).
• Experience working on defence, government or secure infrastructure projects will be highly regarded.

What's on Offer

• Circa $160,000-175,000 + Super + Vehicle Allowance/Package.
• Long-term career opportunity with a respected Tier 3 contractor.
• Diverse portfolio of commercial and defence projects.
• Opportunity to influence projects from concept through to delivery.
• Collaborative leadership team with genuine autonomy.
• Stable pipeline of work and strong repeat client base.
• Professional development and future leadership opportunities.
• Melbourne-based role with limited travel.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.