Preconstruction Co-op

J.H. Findorff & Son Inc.; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive hourly pay

Housing stipend

Structured co‑op program

Job summary

J.H. Findorff & Son Inc. is seeking a Preconstruction Co-op in Milwaukee, WI, for Spring/Summer or Summer/Fall terms in 2027.

The role supports the preconstruction team with planning and estimating activities and provides exposure to estimating software and bid processes. Applicants are pursuing a bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or related field and should demonstrate strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Comfortable using technology with strong computer skills.
• Interest in building a career in preconstruction, estimating, or construction management.

Responsibilities

• Support Estimating Activities: Assist with quantity takeoffs, pricing exercises, subcontractor solicitation, bid package preparation, and other estimating tasks.
• Participate in Bid Day & Procurement Efforts: Attend pre‑bid conferences, support bid day activities, communicate with prospective bidders, and assist in the evaluation of bid results.
• Contribute to Project Planning: Help develop preliminary project schedules, compile project information, and support scope development efforts.
• Collaborate with Project Stakeholders: Attend meetings with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and internal project teams to gain exposure to the pre‑construction process.
• Learn Industry Tools & Processes: Utilize estimating and bidding software while developing an understanding of budgeting, project strategy, and construction planning.
• Build Professional Skills: Strengthen communication, organization, problem‑solving, and analytical skills while working on real‑world construction projects.

Education

Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or related field

Job description

At Findorff, we bring expertise and value in construction that extends far beyond building. Since 1890, we've grown from humble beginnings into one of the Midwest's most trusted construction firms - driven by strong relationships, high-quality work, and a commitment to the communities we serve.

Come join Findorff as a Preconstruction Co-op this Spring/Summer (January 2027 - August 2027) or Summer/Fall (May/June 2027 - December 2027).

What You'll Do

The Preconstruction Co-op is located in Milwaukee, WI and works alongside Findorff's Preconstruction team. As a Preconstruction Co-op, you'll gain hands‑on experience supporting the planning and estimating efforts that set projects up for success before construction begins. This role is designed for students interested in construction management, engineering, estimating, and project planning. You'll work with estimators, project managers, and design partners while building technical, analytical, and communication skills.

• Support Estimating Activities: Assist with quantity takeoffs, pricing exercises, subcontractor solicitation, bid package preparation, and other estimating tasks.
• Participate in Bid Day & Procurement Efforts: Attend pre‑bid conferences, support bid day activities, communicate with prospective bidders, and assist in the evaluation of bid results.
• Contribute to Project Planning: Help develop preliminary project schedules, compile project information, and support scope development efforts.
• Collaborate with Project Stakeholders: Attend meetings with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and internal project teams to gain exposure to the pre‑construction process.
• Learn Industry Tools & Processes: Utilize estimating and bidding software while developing an understanding of budgeting, project strategy, and construction planning.
• Build Professional Skills: Strengthen communication, organization, problem‑solving, and analytical skills while working on real‑world construction projects.

Why Findorff

• Gain hands‑on experience from day one by contributing to real projects, not just job shadowing.
• Work alongside experienced mentors invested in your learning and development.
• Mock Bid Day opportunities where you'll partner with fellow Co‑ops and gain firsthand experience in the competitive bidding process.
• Job Site Visits across sectors like Education, Science & Technology, Multi‑family, Corporate, and Healthcare to broaden your understanding of the construction industry.
• Networking and Offsite Events designed to connect Co‑ops and Interns from across the company.
• Collaborative, people‑first culture where your contributions are valued.

Plus: competitive hourly pay, holiday pay, housing stipend, and a structured co‑op program.

What We Are Looking For

• Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Comfortable using technology with strong computer skills.
• Interest in building a career in preconstruction, estimating, or construction management.

Diversity matters. Findorff recognizes the talents of all, appreciating the different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives that make us a stronger company and partner for the communities we live and work in.

Findorff provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

#LI-DNI

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.