Estimator (Residential, commercial, or remodeling construction)

Job Title: Pre-Construction Manager / Estimator

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Pre-Construction Manager / Estimator to lead the planning, budgeting, and estimating phases of residential, commercial, and remodeling construction projects. This role is responsible for developing accurate project estimates, coordinating with clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors, and ensuring projects are properly planned before construction begins. The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills with a thorough understanding of construction methods, materials, and costs across multiple project types.

Estimating & Budget Development

• Prepare detailed cost estimates for residential, commercial, tenant improvement, remodeling, renovation, and ground-up construction projects
• Analyze plans, specifications, and project requirements to determine labor, material, equipment, and subcontractor costs
• Solicit, review, and compare subcontractor and supplier bids
• Develop conceptual estimates, preliminary budgets, GMPs, and final project pricing
• Maintain and update estimating databases, unit costs, and historical pricing information
• Identify value engineering opportunities and cost-saving alternatives while maintaining project quality and scope
  
  

Pre-Construction Management

• Lead the pre-construction process from project conception through contract execution
• Review architectural and engineering plans for completeness, constructability, and cost impacts
• Coordinate with architects, designers, engineers, consultants, owners, and clients during the planning phase
• Prepare project scopes of work, bid packages, and procurement schedules
• Assist in developing project schedules and construction timelines
• Identify potential risks, constructability issues, and budget exposures before construction begins
  
  

Client & Team Coordination

• Meet with residential and commercial clients to review project goals, budgets, schedules, and expectations
• Present estimates, budgets, and scope recommendations to clients and company leadership
• Facilitate pre-construction meetings with project stakeholders
• Collaborate closely with project managers and field teams to ensure a smooth transition from pre-construction to construction
• Maintain clear communication regarding project changes, budget updates, and schedule impacts
  
  

Project Planning & Documentation

• Maintain organized project files, bid documentation, and estimating records
• Review contracts, proposals, drawings, and project specifications
• Assist with permitting, entitlement, and approval requirements as needed
• Prepare reports and recommendations regarding project feasibility, profitability, and risk management
• Support project procurement planning and long-lead material identification
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred
• 5 years of estimating and/or pre-construction experience in residential, commercial, or remodeling construction
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and building systems
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and civil plans
• Proficiency in estimating, takeoff, and project management software
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational abilities
  
  

Preferred Skills

• Experience with custom homes, multifamily, commercial buildings, tenant improvements, and renovation projects
• Knowledge of local building codes, permitting processes, and construction regulations
• Familiarity with value engineering, cost control, and procurement planning
• Experience using Bluebeam, Procore, Buildertrend, CoConstruct, PlanSwift, Sage, or similar construction software
  
  

Work Environment

• Combination of office work, client meetings, plan reviews, bid coordination, subcontractor meetings, and occasional site visits