Preconstruction Estimator

Build Group, Inc; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Build Group, Inc is seeking a Preconstruction Estimator in San Francisco, CA. In this role, you will analyze project plans and prepare cost estimates for various projects including retail and hospitality. Responsibilities include developing budgets, reviewing designs, and collaborating with project teams to ensure alignment between scope and budget. Candidates should hold a relevant bachelor's degree and have 5+ years experience in preconstruction estimating. Proficiency in estimating software is required, and the company values diversity in hiring.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction.
• Experience estimating Core & Shell and Tenant Improvement projects.
• Strong knowledge of conceptual estimating methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual budgets during early design phases.
• Review drawings to prepare cost estimates.
• Collaborate with project managers to maintain alignment between project scope, schedule, and budget.

Skills

Estimating Core & Shell projects

Budgeting

Quantity takeoffs

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

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

Tools

Bluebeam

Timberline

Salesforce

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Job description

Job Overview

The Preconstruction Estimator will be responsible for analyzing and preparing project plans, specifications, and related documents to prepare accurate and timely cost estimates and bids for retail, restaurant, office and hospitality, as well as special projects, including seismic, public work, healthcare, life science and institutional. We have on-site openings in our Santa Clara and San Francisco offices.

Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual budgets during early design phases using historical project data, system benchmarks, and unit costs (Programming, Schematic Design, and Design Development stages).
• Review drawings from all disciplines—including architectural, structural, and MEP—to prepare cost estimates for Core & Shell (C&S) and Tenant Improvement (TI) projects.
• Build cost models using internal data and prior project experience to support early feasibility studies and preliminary budget planning, often before subcontractor market feedback is available.
• Analyze building systems (structure, envelope, MEP infrastructure, interiors, etc.) to identify key cost drivers and inform design decisions.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare scope narratives to support estimate development.
• Prepare clear lists of inclusions, exclusions, and qualifications for client proposals.
• Evaluate design options and material selections to assess cost impacts and identify value engineering opportunities.
• Review subcontractor and supplier proposals during later preconstruction phases and confirm alignment with the project budget.
• Prepare bid tabulations and leveling during estimating and later preconstruction phases.
• Track project budgets from conceptual estimate through GMP development, identifying potential cost risks, gaps, and variances.
• Collaborate with project managers, preconstruction staff, and design teams to maintain alignment between project scope, schedule, and budget.
• Prepare estimate summaries, cost reports, and presentations for internal and client review.
• Assess cost impacts related to design revisions, scope changes, and schedule adjustments.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction.
• Experience estimating Core & Shell and Tenant Improvement projects.
• Strong knowledge of conceptual estimating methods, including the use of historical cost data and system-based budgeting.
• Proven experience performing independent quantity takeoffs.
• Experience developing early-stage budgets without full reliance on subcontractor pricing.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting architectural, structural, and MEP drawings.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational and document management skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Bluebeam, Timberline (or similar estimating software), Ediphi, Salesforce, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Word.
• Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

This position description is a summary and not a complete representation of the position; the essential functions of the position may change as duties are assigned.

Equal Opportunity Employment

Build Group provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment, free from unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any other status or condition protected by local, state or federal law. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, training, orientation, placement, discipline, promotion, transfer, position elimination, rehire, benefits, compensation, retirement and termination. As an equal opportunity employer, Build Group seeks to hire employees based solely on their qualifications and abilities.