Preconstruction Estimator — Chicago Market, Growth

LG Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Bonus opportunities

Unlimited PTO

Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits

401(k) with employer match

Paid maternity and paternity leave

Downtown Chicago headquarters

Job summary

LG Group is seeking an experienced Estimator for its LG Builders Preconstruction team in Chicago. You will develop accurate budgets and estimates through the preconstruction lifecycle, working closely with clients, architects, consultants, subcontractors, vendors, and internal teams.

The role requires a strong grasp of Chicago market dynamics, cost drivers, and an established network of trade partners to ensure competitive pricing and successful project pursuits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• 5-10 years of estimating, preconstruction, or commercial construction experience.
• Experience with general contracting, construction management, or design-build organizations.
• Strong understanding of construction means, methods, and cost drivers.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings and specs.
• Experience preparing budgets, estimates, takeoffs, and bid packages.
• Strong knowledge of the Chicago construction market and local subcontractor community.
• Existing relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and trade partners.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Bluebeam.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates.
• Develop project budgets and cost plans throughout preconstruction.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and detailed pricing analyses.
• Identify project risks, constructability concerns, and cost-savings opportunities.
• Support feasibility studies and early project planning efforts.
• Develop value engineering recommendations while maintaining design intent.
• Independently manage estimates from pursuit through final pricing and turnover.
• Prepare bid packages and manage subcontractor solicitation efforts.
• Analyze and level subcontractor and vendor proposals.
• Conduct scope reviews and negotiate pricing, qualifications, and scope coverage.
• Support proposal development and project pursuit activities.
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors in the Chicago market.
• Evaluate subcontractor capabilities and project fit.
• Collaborate with Project Managers, Superintendents, and Operations teams.
• Participate in design reviews, scope meetings, and budget discussions.
• Communicate estimating assumptions, risks, and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Support turnover from preconstruction to operations.

Skills

Estimating

Budgeting

Quantity takeoffs

Bid management

Subcontractor relations

Microsoft Office

Bluebeam

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management

Tools

Procore

Sage

Bluebeam

Job description

LG Group is seeking an experienced Estimator for its LG Builders Preconstruction team in Chicago. You will develop accurate budgets and estimates through the preconstruction lifecycle, working closely with clients, architects, consultants, subcontractors, vendors, and internal teams.

The role requires a strong grasp of Chicago market dynamics, cost drivers, and an established network of trade partners to ensure competitive pricing and successful project pursuits.