Pre-Construction Project Manager / Planner – Civil Infrastructure
Location: Preston (Hybrid working available)
Employment Type: Permanent (Freelance would also be considered)
Salary: £70,000 – £80,000 + Car Allowance & Package
Sector: Civil Engineering – Highways, Structures, Utilities, Public Realm, Water & Energy
A leading regional Civil Engineering Contractor is seeking an experienced Pre-Construction Project Manager / Planner to join their growing pre-construction team. This role will lead the tender planning and programming function, ensuring competitive and fully compliant bids are developed, while establishing robust project controls from the earliest stage.
This is an opportunity to play a key role in securing and shaping landmark infrastructure projects, working closely with estimators, bid writers, project teams, and senior leadership.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead the development of tender planning and programme activity for 3–6 bids per month
* Analyse tender documents and create NEC4-compliant, resourced programmes including TRA, float, resources, critical path, and costs where applicable
* Develop phasing and logistics plans to clearly communicate methodology to internal teams and clients
* Provide planning input to bid writers to achieve high-scoring quality responses (75%+)
* Present methodology, phasing, and programmes at tender settlement meetings with directors
* Align tender programmes with operational requirements, incorporating lessons learned from live projects
* Support optimal strategy development by identifying risks, opportunities, and innovations
* Review programmes produced by other pre-construction team members and provide guidance
Candidate Requirements:
* Degree or HND in Civil Engineering or related discipline
* Minimum 5 years’ experience in planning within civil engineering, with demonstrable pre-construction/tendering experience
* Strong knowledge of highways, structures, and public realm projects; experience in energy, industrial, or water sectors highly desirable
* Proficiency in planning software (Asta Powerproject essential; Primavera P6 and MS Project preferred)
* Strong understanding of NEC3/4 contracts and programme requirements
* Excellent technical knowledge of civil engineering methodologies and construction sequencing
* Strong written and verbal communication skills with ability to produce persuasive tender narratives
* Effective leadership, problem-solving, and time management abilities
What’s On Offer:
* Salary: £70,000 – £75,000 (dependent on experience)
* Company Car or Car Allowance
* Comprehensive benefits package including pension and private healthcare
* Career development within a forward-thinking, socially responsible contractor
* Opportunity to shape and win high-value projects across civil infrastructure sectors