Manager, Electrical, Pre - construction Services

Manager, Electrical, Pre-Construction Services

Gray Construction is looking for a Manager to support our Preconstruction team. This position will be based at Gray Construction's Lexington, KY office location.

Responsibilities

Why Gray?

Gray is a fully integrated, global service provider deeply rooted in engineering, design, and construction, along with smart manufacturing and equipment manufacturing services. Consistently ranked as a leader in the industry, we focus on the following markets for domestic and international customers: Food & Beverage, Manufacturing Plant Construction, Data Centers, Distribution Center Construction, and Advanced Technology. Founded in 1960, Gray's robust offering enables us to create one-of-a-kind solutions at the highest levels of customization, delivering unmatched precision and partnership to some of the world's most sophisticated organizations. Still, these areas don't define Gray—our people do. Passion, commitment, and a great team spirit all speak to the team members at Gray.

Who we want… (Requirements)

* Education: Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or chemical engineering (or related discipline) is preferred, with significant experience (8+ years) in mechanical or electrical design, project estimating, or construction management. Equivalent years of related experience will be considered in place of a technical degree. An MBA or related business qualification or experience is desirable.

* Experience: Prior experience in construction estimating is advantageous but not required. (Emphasis on design-build MEP approach with coordination of design and engineering efforts.) Experience reviewing and analyzing construction documents from subcontractors and engineers to confirm they comply with the project scope. Experience working with design and engineering managers to ensure project(s) is/are designed, specified, procured, and constructed within the boundaries of operating guidelines, while conforming to technical requirements and ensuring customer satisfaction. Mechanical candidates - experience with HVAC, plumbing, fire protection, process piping, ductwork, wastewater, process engineering, mechanical design, or construction management is required. Electrical candidates - experience with electrical distribution systems, controls, lighting, power generation, process engineering, electrical design, single line diagrams, or construction management is required.

* Skills: Strong analytical abilities with attention to detail. Strong leadership capabilities with a focus on mentoring and developing junior engineers and technical staff. Proven ability to guide teams in applying best practices for system design, installation, and problem-solving. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Presentations are required to internal and external customers. Proficiency in industry specific modeling or estimating tools is preferred, in addition to Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.

Qualifications

What we expect … (Essential Functions) At Gray, we are shaping the future of construction through innovation and collaboration. From designing state-of-the-art data centers to contributing to strategic manufacturing, distribution, and distillery projects, we believe that every successful project starts with talented individuals eager to learn and grow. The Mechanical or Electrical Manager will play a key role in the pre-construction phase, helping to estimate project costs, coordinate bids with subcontractors, design systems and communicate those details to internal and external customers. This position is ideal for professionals with 8-12 years of experience who are looking to highlight their technical expertise, communication skills, and business acumen in a dynamic environment. You will gain hands-on experience working on diverse, high-profile projects and have the opportunity to travel to construction sites to see the designs you have helped influence come to life. As part of our team, you will work and partner with industry experts, giving you the resources, guidance, and exposure to showcase your skills and abilities.

Key Responsibilities:

* Cost Estimating & Value Engineering: Develop and refine cost estimates for mechanical or electrical systems based on historical data, market analysis, and technical specifications. Perform detailed value engineering analyses to optimize system performance and cost-efficiency while ensuring design integrity. Collaborate closely with the design and engineering teams to refine estimating techniques and improve overall accuracy and precision. Proficient in various contracting methods such as lump sum, GMP, cost-plus construction management, and fee-based construction. Basic understanding of legal aspects and implications of contractual language.

* Subcontractor Coordination & Integration: Cultivate strong relationships with key mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and controls subcontractors, leveraging their expertise in system design and construction methodologies. Lead the distribution of technical RFP documents, manage bid leveling processes, and ensure subcontractor proposals are aligned with project scope, technical specifications, and budget constraints. Review subcontractor proposals for compliance with technical requirements and identify any gaps or areas for further clarification.

* Documentation & Reporting: Prepare and maintain detailed, organized records of cost estimates, project specifications, and bid documentation. Lead the development of exhibit A's, contract documentation, and project status reports, ensuring all technical and contractual elements are clearly communicated to internal teams and external stakeholders.

* Project Management Support: Assist in preparing project proposals, conducting bid evaluations, and assessing the feasibility of alternative solutions. Support a seamless transition from pre-construction to construction phases by delivering necessary documentation.