Senior Preconstruction Engineer - Commercial

We are seeking an experienced Senior Preconstruction Engineer to lead estimating, cost planning, and early project strategy for a diverse portfolio of commercial, industrial, adaptive reuse, and specialty construction projects across Middle Tennessee. This role is ideal for a technically strong, detail‑driven professional who enjoys shaping projects early and collaborating closely with ownership, designers, and operations.

Client Details

Our client is a Nashville‑based, privately held general contractor with more than two decades of experience delivering ground‑up construction, adaptive reuse, renovations, industrial facilities, office buildings, restaurant/retail spaces, and residential developments throughout Middle Tennessee.

The firm is known for its hands‑on preconstruction approach, strong trade relationships, and its ability to guide owners and developers through budgeting, feasibility, and constructability challenges. Compared to similarly sized contractors, this company provides more detailed oversight, deeper early‑phase planning, and a highly collaborative team environment that values both precision and trust.

Description

• Lead preconstruction efforts from conceptual budgeting through detailed GMP development.
• Prepare quantity takeoffs and detailed estimates across sitework, concrete, structural, architectural, and MEP scopes.
• Evaluate drawings, specifications, and existing conditions to identify scope gaps, risks, and cost drivers.
• Manage subcontractor outreach, bid solicitation, scope definition, leveling, and analysis.
• Develop value‑engineering options and alternative systems to align projects with budget and schedule goals.
• Partner with project management and field teams to align estimates with real‑world production and logistics.
• Assist with schedule assumptions, construction phasing, and constructability reviews.
• Maintain and refine historical cost data, benchmarking tools, and estimating standards.
• Participate in client meetings, proposal presentations, and preconstruction handoffs to operations.
• Mentor junior preconstruction staff and support process improvement initiatives.

Profile

• 6-10 years of experience in preconstruction or estimating for commercial or industrial construction.
• Strong technical understanding of building systems, sequencing, and construction means and methods.
• Proven ability to produce accurate budgets at conceptual and schematic design phases.
• Experience with adaptive reuse or renovation projects, where scope definition and risk management are critical.
• Proficiency with estimating and takeoff tools (Bluebeam, Excel‑based models, and similar platforms).
• Strong communication skills and confidence working directly with owners, architects, and subcontractors.
• A proactive, solution‑oriented mindset with high attention to detail.

Job Offer

• Base Salary: $105,000 - $135,000
• Total Compensation (with bonus): $120,000 - $160,000
• Annual Bonus: 10-20% performance‑based
• Vehicle / Transportation Allowance: $500 - $900 per month (role‑dependent)
  
  

This company offers a well‑rounded, competitive benefits package designed to support long‑term career growth and work‑life balance, including:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision plans with company contributions
• Retirement: 401(k) program with company match
• Paid Time Off:
  • Generous PTO allowance
  • Paid holidays
  • Additional flex or floating holidays (company‑dependent)
• Professional Development:
  • Certification reimbursement
  • Continuing education and industry training support
  • Leadership development opportunities
• Technology & Tools:
  • Company‑provided laptop and software
  • Estimating and takeoff tools provided
• Work Environment:
  • Collaborative, team‑focused culture
  • Direct access to leadership and decision‑makers
  • Stability of a long‑standing Nashville builder
• Other Perks (role‑dependent):
  • Performance incentives
  • Company events and team outings
  • Hybrid flexibility when appropriate for preconstruction responsibilities
    

MPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state or local law. MPI encourages applications from minorities, women, the disabled, protected veterans and all other qualified applicants.