What are the responsibilities and job description for the Construction Estimator/Precon Manager (Data Center) position at Connect Search, LLC?
Job Title: Estimator / Preconstruction Manager – Data Center (Hyperscale Focus)
Location: Project-Based (IN, CO, TN, AL)
Travel: 90% (project phase dependent)
Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Estimator / Preconstruction Manager to play a critical leadership role in the preconstruction and estimating phase of large-scale hyperscale data center projects.
As a key member of the owner’s representative team, you will lead cost management, detailed estimating, constructability reviews, and preconstruction planning from conceptual design through GMP and construction handover. This is a high-impact position for a detail-oriented leader who excels at delivering accurate cost models and driving value in fast-paced, technically complex data center environments.
Key Responsibilities
Preconstruction & Estimating Leadership
- Lead all estimating efforts from conceptual and schematic design through final GMP, including quantity takeoffs, pricing, and cost modeling for large-scale data centers.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive preconstruction schedules, budgets, and project execution plans.
- Manage design-build partner bids, subcontractor pricing, and vendor negotiations.
Cost & Value Management
- Perform detailed cost analysis, value engineering, and risk assessments to ensure projects meet budget and performance targets.
- Provide ongoing cost forecasting, contingency planning, and budget tracking throughout preconstruction.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining owner standards and mission-critical requirements.
Design-Build Collaboration
- Work closely with design teams (architectural, MEP, civil, structural) to ensure constructability, technical compliance, and cost-effectiveness.
- Review design deliverables and provide actionable feedback on cost implications and alternatives.
- Support seamless transition from preconstruction into active construction phases.
Stakeholder & Owner Communication
- Deliver clear, strategic cost and schedule reporting to owner’s representatives and executive stakeholders.
- Present estimates, risk registers, and value engineering recommendations to clients and leadership.
- Manage change management and scope clarification during preconstruction.
Project Controls & Risk Management
- Oversee development of project budgets, cash flow projections, and cost-loaded schedules.
- Proactively identify and mitigate cost and schedule risks.
- Lead preconstruction meetings, bid reviews, and coordination with internal and external teams.
Qualifications
- 7 years of progressive experience in estimating and preconstruction, with significant focus on data centers, mission-critical, or large-scale industrial projects.
- Strong background in design-build or integrated project delivery environments.
- Deep expertise in MEP systems, civil/site development, structural, and hyperscale infrastructure costing.
- Proficiency with estimating and preconstruction tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Procore, or similar).
- Proven ability to produce accurate, detailed estimates in a fast-moving hyperscale environment.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills- able to translate complex cost data for both technical and executive audiences.
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.
- PMP, LEED AP, or similar certifications are a plus.
What We Offer
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge hyperscale data center projects that power global technology.
- High-visibility role with direct impact on project financial success and delivery.
- Competitive compensation package, comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, life, 401(k)), paid time off, and professional development support.
- Collaborative, high-performance culture with wellness benefits including on-site gym, training, and more.
If you are a skilled Estimator or Preconstruction Manager with proven hyperscale data center experience and thrive on delivering accurate, high-stakes cost strategies, we’d love to connect.
Apply now to join a forward-thinking team delivering industry-leading mission-critical infrastructure.
Salary : $180,000 - $240,000