Estimator - Preconstruction & Value Engineering

Power Construction; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Power Construction is seeking an Estimator for DEC '26 or MAY '27 graduate who will support preconstruction estimating and planning. You will prepare takeoffs, cost estimates, bid analyses, and value engineering while assisting with subcontractor solicitation and bid reviews.

You will maintain historical cost data, learn market costs, and build relationships with clients and subcontractors; travel in and around Chicago and suburbs is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a construction-related field.
• Relevant estimating internship or construction industry experience.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to interpret plans, specifications, and construction documents.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Support the preconstruction team through all phases of estimating and planning.
• Prepare quantity takeoffs, cost estimates, bid analyses, and value engineering recommendations.
• Assist with subcontractor solicitation, bid review, negotiations, and subcontract administration.
• Maintain historical cost, unit pricing, and subcontractor databases.
• Develop working knowledge of market costs, general conditions, and preliminary scheduling.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and subcontractors.
• Utilize Revit models and project documentation to support estimating efforts.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Verbal & written communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a construction-related field

Tools

WinEst

OST

SmartBid

BuildingConnected

Job description

Power Construction is seeking an Estimator for DEC '26 or MAY '27 graduate who will support preconstruction estimating and planning. You will prepare takeoffs, cost estimates, bid analyses, and value engineering while assisting with subcontractor solicitation and bid reviews.

You will maintain historical cost data, learn market costs, and build relationships with clients and subcontractors; travel in and around Chicago and suburbs is required.