Estimator / Preconstruction Manager

Colas Construction, Inc.; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% employer-paid health insurance

401(k) retirement plan with employer match

Generous paid time off

Annual education allowance

Flexible working hours

Job summary

Colas Construction, Inc., located in Portland, Oregon, is looking for an experienced Estimator to lead preconstruction efforts on diverse commercial projects. The role demands strong analytical skills and experience with commercial estimating and budget management.

The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative environment, preparing accurate estimates and managing client relationships effectively. We offer competitive health insurance and professional development opportunities as part of our comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive estimating experience in commercial construction.
• Able to manage preconstruction efforts for mid-to-large-scale projects.
• Valid driver's license required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accurate conceptual estimates and budgets for projects.
• Develop estimates for civil, architectural, structural, and MEPF systems.
• Mentor junior estimator team members.

Skills

Estimating and cost management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture

Tools

Sage

Procore

Bluebeam

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

At Colas Construction (COLAS), we believe every employee plays a vital role in our mission: to build legacies and strengthen communities. We value collaboration, adaptability, and a team-first mindset.

We are seeking an experienced Estimator to lead preconstruction efforts from conceptual design through project handoff. This role is ideal for a collaborative construction professional who thrives in high performing team environments, enjoys strategic problem-solving, and can confidently manage complex estimates while building strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and project teams.

As an experienced Estimator, you will play a critical role in developing accurate budgets, identifying project risks and opportunities, supporting business development efforts, and helping drive successful project outcomes across a diverse portfolio of commercial construction projects.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare accurate and timely conceptual estimates, GMPs, Lump Sum pricing, budgets, and cost models for projects ranging from $10K to $100MM.
• Develop estimates for civil, architectural, structural, and MEPF systems from early design through final pricing.
• Identify project risks, cost drivers, and atypical conditions while providing value engineering and cost‑saving recommendations aligned with project goals.
• Lead preconstruction meetings, presentations, and coordination efforts with owners, architects, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams.
• Manage bid documents, subcontractor bid packages, clarifications, qualifications, exclusions, assumptions, and Cost Revision Logs (CRLs).
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, vendors, and industry partners to ensure competitive pricing and complete bid coverage.
• Monitor market trends, labor conditions, material pricing, and subcontractor availability to maintain current and competitive estimates.
• Collaborate with operations and project teams to ensure smooth project turnover from preconstruction to construction.
• Support project cost management efforts through quantity takeoffs, workforce production analysis, change order pricing, and estimate revisions.
• Ensure all bids, budgets, and documentation are completed accurately, reviewed, and submitted within established deadlines while maintaining data within Foundation Software and company systems.
• Mentor Estimator I and Estimator II team members and contribute to the continuous improvement of estimating processes, standards, and best practices.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred; equivalent industry experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 7‑10 years of progressive estimating and preconstruction experience within commercial construction or a related industry.
• Demonstrated experience managing preconstruction efforts for mid‑to‑large‑scale commercial projects, including conceptual estimating, GMP development, and Lump Sum bidding.
• Proven ability to successfully deliver projects within budget, schedule, and client expectations.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, systems, constructability, and current market conditions.
• Proficiency with estimating and project management software, including Sage, Procore, Bluebeam, Smartsheet, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Project).
• Experience performing quantity takeoffs and document review using Bluebeam or comparable takeoff software.
• Ability to read, interpret, and analyze architectural drawings, engineering documents, specifications, and bid packages.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, budgeting, and cost management skills with the ability to develop complex estimates and pricing strategies.
• Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
• Valid driver’s license required.

ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES

The physical and work environment requirements described below are representative of those necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities on a case‑by‑case basis.

This position is primarily office‑based and typically works Monday through Friday, averaging 8‑10 hours per day at the Colas Headquarters office.

While performing the duties of this role, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, communicate, and use standard computer and office equipment. Occasional repetitive hand and wrist movement may be required. The employee may occasionally lift or carry items up to 20 pounds.

This role may also require occasional visits to active construction project sites. Employees visiting job sites must be able to navigate uneven terrain and comply with all required safety procedures and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.

ABOUT US

Colas Construction is a general contracting firm based in Portland, Oregon, where our passion for building stems from our expertise in the industry and our values of integrity, safety, and exceeding standards for equity and inclusion.

Our mission: to build legacies and strengthen communities.

CORE VALUES

Our core values are our S.E.E.D.S:

• Spirited: We desire to be the best at what we do, to be competitive and non‑complacent.
• Enlightened: We strive for the greater good in society. We have integrity, are unselfish, and treat others with respect.
• Effective: We are highly functional. We think first, plan and analyze our approach to achieve excellence.
• Dedicated: We are professionals who are reliable and deliver on our commitments.
• Synergetic: We elevate the people around us to reach their best. We stretch our team’s ability to think and achieve the best outcomes.

BENEFITS

At Colas Construction, we believe in investing in our employees' well‑being and professional growth. We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you both personally and professionally. Our benefits include and are not limited to:

• Health Insurance: 100% employer‑paid employee coverage for robust medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
• Retirement: 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Paid Time Off: generously paid sick, vacation, personal, and holiday days off.
• Professional Development: annual allowance for continued education and training.
• Additional Perks: Benefit from various additional perks, such as company vehicles for certain roles, travel allowances, and flexible working hours to help balance life and work commitments.

Colas Construction, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer. We value equitable hiring practices and adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, age, or disability. We assure you that employment with COLAS depends solely on your qualifications.

Thank you for your interest in COLAS, where we are Building Tomorrow, Today!