Construction Estimator - Owners Representative

Carolina Search Group; Greenville (SC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Carolina Search Group in Greenville, SC is seeking a Construction Estimator / Preconstruction Manager to support its Columbia team. You will join a tight-knit, well-supported Greenville, SC office that values early cost guidance and collaboration across design and construction stakeholders.

Responsibilities include leading cost estimates, developing budgets, and guiding clients from concept through design, with opportunities across K–12, Higher Ed, Healthcare, Municipal, and Commercial markets.

Qualifications

• 2–10+ years of experience in preconstruction or estimating with a GC, CM, or Owner’s Rep firm.
• Strong foundation in commercial construction cost management—Education, Healthcare, Municipal, or Commercial sectors.
• Ability to create conceptual estimates with limited design information.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication abilities.
• Proficiency with industry-standard estimating tools and cost databases.
• Client-facing experience and the ability to explain cost decisions clearly.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates for a variety of project types.
• Develop, manage, and update project budgets throughout planning and design.
• Perform quantity takeoffs, evaluate design options, and analyze scopes to ensure accurate forecasting.
• Review contractor proposals, lead scope reviews, and provide cost recommendations to owners.
• Support value engineering efforts and develop cost models for various design scenarios.
• Work closely with architects, engineers, and contractors to identify risks and opportunities early.
• Assist with schedule development, phasing strategies, and procurement planning.
• Lead and participate in client meetings, delivering clear, confident cost guidance.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Client-facing

Cost estimation

Job description

A respected Owner’s Representative and Project Management firm with a strong statewide reputation is seeking a talented Construction Estimator / Preconstruction Manager to support its expanding Columbia team. This role is perfect for a construction professional who enjoys being involved early, influencing decision-making, and guiding clients from concept through budgeting and design. You’ll join a tight-knit, well-supported Greenville, SC office that offers the resources of a larger organization while maintaining a personal, collaborative feel where your expertise truly matters.

Why Preconstruction Professionals Love This Opportunity

• Local work only – all projects are in SC and no travel required and predictable work-life balance.
• Owner’s Representative environment – strategic, advisory-focused work rather than high-volume bid chasing.
• High-impact projects across K–12, Higher Ed, Healthcare, Municipal, and Commercial markets.
• Smaller-office culture with strong, experienced leadership and a team that values accuracy, collaboration, and client service.
• Influence the project early—your cost guidance directly shapes design, scope, and outcomes.
• Clear path for advancement
• Balanced workload with a strong emphasis on quality and long-term relationships, not just volume.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates for a variety of project types.
• Develop, manage, and update project budgets throughout planning and design.
• Perform quantity takeoffs, evaluate design options, and analyze scopes to ensure accurate forecasting.
• Review contractor proposals, lead scope reviews, and provide cost recommendations to owners.
• Support value engineering efforts and develop cost models for various design scenarios.
• Work closely with architects, engineers, and contractors to identify risks and opportunities early.
• Assist with schedule development, phasing strategies, and procurement planning.
• Lead and participate in client meetings, delivering clear, confident cost guidance.

Qualifications

• 2–10+ years of experience in preconstruction or estimating with a GC, CM, or Owner’s Rep firm.
• Strong foundation in commercial construction cost management—ideally in Education, Healthcare, Municipal, or Commercial sectors.
• Ability to create conceptual estimates with limited design information.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication abilities.
• Proficiency with industry-standard estimating tools and cost databases.
• Client-facing experience and the ability to explain cost decisions clearly.