Preconstruction & Purchasing Manager

Location: Union, NJ

Company: Residential Real Estate Developer

Our client, a well-established residential real estate developer based in Union, New Jersey, is seeking an experienced Preconstruction & Purchasing Manager to oversee estimating, budgeting, subcontractor procurement, and purchasing activities for ground-up residential construction projects.

This role will play a critical part in project planning, cost control, and subcontractor selection from early preconstruction through project start.

Key Responsibilities

Preconstruction & Estimating

• Prepare detailed project budgets and cost estimates for ground-up residential developments.
• Review architectural drawings, specifications, and development plans to establish accurate cost projections.
• Conduct quantity take-offs and develop scopes of work for all trades.
• Work closely with ownership, architects, and consultants during project planning and feasibility analysis.
• 
  
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving strategies.

Purchasing & Subcontractor Procurement

• Solicit and evaluate bids from subcontractors and vendors.
• Level and compare proposals to ensure competitive pricing and scope completeness.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and contracts with subcontractors and suppliers.
• Issue and manage subcontracts and purchase orders.
• Maintain relationships with reliable subcontractors and vendors.

Cost Control & Project Support

• Track budgets and provide updates throughout the preconstruction phase.
• Assist the project management team during project startup with finalized scopes and contracts.
• Coordinate with accounting and project management teams to ensure accurate cost tracking.
• Maintain procurement schedules aligned with project timelines.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in preconstruction, estimating, purchasing, or procurement within residential construction.
• Experience working for a developer, GC, or construction manager on residential projects.
• Strong knowledge of multifamily, apartment, or residential development construction.
• Ability to perform take-offs, bid leveling, and subcontractor negotiations.
• Strong understanding of construction drawings, scopes, and specifications.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.

Preferred Experience

• Experience with ground-up multifamily or residential development projects.
• Familiarity with construction management software such as Procore, Buildertrend, or similar platforms.
• Established relationships with subcontractors in the NJ / NYC market.

Compensation

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Opportunity to work with a growing residential developer with a strong project pipeline