Estimator/Preconstruction Manager

Sand Creek Construction; Lincoln, Wahoo, Omaha (NE, NE, NE); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Sand Creek Construction is seeking an Estimator/Preconstruction Manager in Lincoln, NE to analyze project plans, develop accurate cost estimates, and prepare competitive bids for commercial and residential projects. You will collaborate with internal teams, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure accurate pricing and smooth hand‑off into operations after award.

This role requires 5+ years of estimating experience, proficiency with leading estimation software, and travel to job sites as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience in construction estimating, preferably in commercial or residential construction.
• Proficient in estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, Autodesk Build, Building Connected, MS Project).
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and building codes.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to job sites as needed.
• OSHA 30 hour training (if necessary).

Responsibilities

• Review and interpret project plans, specifications, and related documents.
• Identify cost‑saving opportunities, potential risks, and scope gaps.
• Prepare detailed quantity take‑offs and cost estimates for materials, labor, equipment, and subcontracted work.
• Develop and maintain databases of historical costs and pricing trends.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and other team members to finalize bid strategies.
• Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals.
• Ensure all bids are complete and compliant with client requirements, and submitted within deadlines.
• Assist in post‑bid negotiations and clarifications as required.
• Provide accurate preliminary budgets and assist in value engineering during project planning.
• Coordinate with operations to ensure estimates reflect realistic execution methods.

Skills

Estimating

Budgeting

Project Coordination

Bid Strategy

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field

Tools

Bluebeam

Autodesk Build

Building Connected

MS Project

Job description

Position Summary

The Estimator / Preconstruction Manager is responsible for analyzing project plans, specifications, and other documentation to develop accurate cost estimates and budgets for construction projects. This role involves collaborating closely with internal teams, subcontractors, and suppliers to determine pricing, evaluate risks, and prepare competitive bids and/or RFPs. This role also ensures a smooth hand‑off of estimates and supporting information from the bidding and budgeting phase into operations following award, enabling the project team to execute efficiently and profitably. In addition to the core responsibilities of Estimator/Preconstruction Manager, there will be supporting responsibilities of Project Management.

Core Responsibilities

Project Analysis & Estimating

• Review and interpret project plans, specifications, and related documents.
• Identify cost‑saving opportunities, potential risks, and scope gaps.
• Prepare detailed quantity take‑offs and cost estimates for materials, labor, equipment, and subcontracted work.
• Develop and maintain databases of historical costs and pricing trends.

Bid Preparation & Submission

• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and other team members to finalize bid strategies.
• Solicit, review, and evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals.
• Ensure all bids are complete and compliant with client requirements, and submitted within deadlines.
• Assist in post‑bid negotiations and clarifications as required.

Vendor & Subcontractor Coordination

• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
• Organize and lead pre‑bid meetings and scope review sessions.
• Ensure subcontractor and supplier pricing aligns with project requirements and company standards.

Cost Control, Forecasting & Transition to Operations

• Provide accurate preliminary budgets for potential projects.
• Assist project teams in value engineering to improve project cost efficiency.
• Monitor market conditions, material price fluctuations, and labor rates.
• Manage the transition of estimates, assumptions, and related documentation from the bidding phase into operations after award to ensure clarity, accuracy, and continuity.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work with business development staff to support proposal writing and presentations.
• Coordinate with operations to ensure estimates reflect realistic project execution methods.
• Communicate clearly with all stakeholders regarding scope, assumptions, and contingencies.

Support Responsibilities

Project Management

• Responsible for overall construction project delivery on multiple project assignments.
• Maintain safety standards in every aspect of every project.
• Develop and manage project schedules.
• Manage pay applications.
• Manage project budgets and analyze job costs.
• Manage project labor, equipment and supply needs.
• Provide support to project personnel.
• RFI, Submittal and Change Management.
• Resolve construction related issues and disputes on the project.
• Manage and conduct project close‑out activities.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience in construction estimating, preferably in commercial or residential construction.
• Proficient in estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, Autodesk Build, Building Connected, MS Project).
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and building codes.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to job sites as needed.
• OSHA 30 hour training (if necessary).