Preconstruction Engineer

Brinkmann Constructors; Chesterfield (MO); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Brinkmann Constructors seeks a Preconstruction Engineer/Estimator to support bidding for hard bid and conceptual projects. You will perform quantity takeoffs, analyze plans, develop unit costs, and manage subcontractor pricing and bid packages.

The role emphasizes value engineering, bid day analysis, and collaboration with owners, architects, and engineers to secure timely award decisions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or construction management.
• 3–5 years estimating experience in vertical/construction.
• Proficient in MS Excel; experience with On-Screen Take Off, iSqft, Bluebeam.
• Excellent communication and analytical skills.
• Detail oriented with strong subcontractor negotiation abilities.

Responsibilities

• Review project documents conceptually and perform takeoffs for all scopes of work.
• Prepare internal estimates using historical cost data and bid information.
• Solicit subcontractor bids and prepare bid packages; manage bid communications.
• Conduct bid day analysis and identify value engineering opportunities.
• Award subs and manage them to ensure alignment with project schedule and scope.

Skills

MS Excel

Takeoffs

Bid analysis

Subcontractor negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or construction management

Tools

On-Screen Take Off

Bluebeam

iSqft

Job description

Overview

The Preconstruction Engineer (or Estimator) will support the bidding process by preparing estimates and proposals for hard bid and conceptual projects. This position will be responsible for all aspects of the bidding and estimating process including quantity takeoffs, review of plans and specifications, developing unit costs to estimate final project costs, soliciting and negotiating prices from subcontractors/suppliers, bid analysis and interacting with owners, architects and engineers. As a preconstruction engineer, you may assist in recommending sub selection and award, buyout and value engineering. Duties include but are not limited to:

Responsibilities

Conceptual Estimating

• Review and understand project documents at a conceptual and schematic level
• Complete onscreen takeoff of project quantities for all scopes of work
• Prepare internal estimates based on use of historical cost information from bids and completed work
• Complete design review and analysis in order to identify value engineering solutions
• Prepare proposal information for clients

Bid Administration

• Prepare and maintain status of plan reproduction
• Solicit and maintain communication with subcontractors and vendors
• Prepare subcontractor bid packages
• Transmit addenda and other bid information to subcontractors
• Ensure proper coverage from subcontractors on bid day
• Show creativity and resourcefulness to gain better pricing from subcontractors

Project Knowledge

• Review bid requirements thoroughly and ask follow-up questions on every bid
• Understand scope for each trade assigned
• Develop RFIs and clarifications to ensure adequate subcontractor coverage
• Perform a comprehensive "bid day" analysis and scoping of specific assigned trades
• Understand how to fit subs to the size/scope of project
• Create bid lists that fit scope of job to ensure we have the right subs for the project
• Provide value engineering ideas on every bid

Subcontractor Award

• Check requirements to buy the proper scope
• Award subcontracts in a timely manner to ensure release of materials
• Ensure subs are aware of and committed to project schedule
• Provide subs with as much project information as possible (i.e. project team, permit status, etc.)

Subcontractor Management

• Seek and qualify new subcontractors

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering (i.e. civil, architectural, or construction), construction management or related field
• 3-5 years' estimating experience in the vertical, commercial construction industry
• Excellent computer skills including proficiency in MS Excel, working knowledge of On-Screen Take Off, iSqft, Bluebeam, estimating or scheduling software preferred.
• Experience in AutoCAD is a plus
• Proven success in initiating and maintaining strong interpersonal relationships with internal and external customers
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong analytical skills
• Detail oriented