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Preconstruction (Design Phase) Careers in Construction

Preconstruction (Design Phase) Careers in Construction

Tackling Risk by Design

With most major construction projects, everyone talks about design, innovation and sustainability. Yet, ask any owner and they will probably tell you: the real story is what happens before construction begins.

Risk can compound quickly. This is especially true with today’s hyperscale structures that involve highly complex infrastructure and technology scopes.

Design Phase Managers play a critical role in guiding preconstruction efforts by de-risking projects, ensuring stakeholder alignment, aligning with building codes, and much more. Their willingness to take-on and resolve difficult challenges ultimately sets the customer and construction team up for success.

Design Phase vs. Preconstruction

Preconstruction happens on every project. Design Phase Management goes further to uncover opportunities that add value for the customer. Following the architectural direction, Design Phase Managers dig into every aspect of the engineering design to maximize efficiencies, mitigate potential issues and provide a smooth transition to construction operations.

The interesting part about this role is there's really no limit as to what people will ask us for help with within the preconstruction realm. It’s amazing in terms of the challenges you've got to solve and how each day is something you really look forward to.
Andy Peart, MEP Design Phase Manager
Andy Peart MEP Design Phase Manager

Influencing Cutting-edge Projects

Design Phase Managers at Mortenson can broaden their skills through a variety of operating groups and dynamic projects. With expertise that spans over 20 different markets, we’re trusted to build today’s most robust and impactful structures, including iconic sports and entertainment venues, hyperscale data centers, in-demand renewable energy installations, and more.

Design Phase Career Growth

Opportunities in Design Phase

Our diverse business model and rapid growth offer opportunities for Mortenson Design Phase Managers to grow and achieve their career goals. Clear paths prevent “hitting the ceiling” while cross-training opportunities provide structured career progression – supported with regular goal setting and check-ins along the way.

Turning Vision into Reality

No two projects are the same. Design Phase Managers set projects up for success by aligning the customer’s vision with constructability.

By building a network of relationships and a focusing on the preconstruction elements of contracting, engineering design, financials and scheduling, they balance all stakeholder perspectives to determine what's best for the project.

 
 

Design Phase at Mortenson

First Impressions Matter

The design phase often sets the tone for the customer relationship. Balancing different perspectives and managing expectations go hand-in-hand with addressing problems before they become more impactful during construction.

Curiosity and Conviction

While design phase professionals often come from a variety of backgrounds, they all share a passion for learning. Their insatiable curiosity is matched with a drive to figure out complex problems and not be overwhelmed by them.

You'll Never Walk Alone

Whether the challenge relates to permitting, scheduling or something in between, collaboration is a design phase team superpower. Leveraging individual strengths and unique backgrounds leads to clarity and viable solutions.

 
One thing I've noticed is I'm laughing at work now. A lot of work is being done, but people are having fun while doing it. There was none of that at my last company. Here, there's so much more of an open dialogue and it is extremely refreshing.
Riley Hoffman, Design Phase Manager
Riley Hoffman Design Phase Manager
 

Explore Opportunities with Mortenson