Project Estimator/Pre-Construction

J&J Contractors, Inc.; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

J&J Contractors, Inc. seeks a Project Estimator/Pre-Construction professional based in Chattanooga, TN.

The role focuses on preparing detailed estimates for commercial and industrial projects, including quantity take-offs, pricing labor and materials, and evaluating subcontractor proposals. Day-to-day work involves analyzing drawings, developing budgets, and collaborating with project managers to refine scopes and value-engineering options.

Qualifications

• Ability to interpret drawings and specifications to develop accurate estimates.
• Develop budgets and cost models for commercial/industrial projects.
• Collaborate with project teams and leadership to refine scopes and value-engineering options.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates for commercial/industrial projects, including quantity take-offs and pricing labor/materials.
• Analyze drawings and specs to build budgets and cost models; evaluate subcontractor proposals.
• Support pre-construction planning, bid strategies, and risk/opportunity identification.
• Maintain estimating databases and communicate clearly with internal teams and external partners.
• Assist with smooth handoff from pre-construction to operations on projects.

Skills

Estimating

Cost budgeting

Client communication

Construction knowledge

Estimating software

Analytical

Organizational

Education

Associate or Bachelor’s in construction management or engineering

Job description

Company Description

J&J Contractors, Inc. is a general contractor specializing in commercial and industrial construction projects across Southeast Tennessee, Northwest Georgia, and Northeast Alabama. Headquartered in Chattanooga, TN, the company supports a wide range of regional clients with ground-up builds, expansions, and facility improvements. J&J Contractors, Inc. is focused on delivering dependable project execution, quality workmanship, and responsive service. Team members work in a fast-paced environment where collaboration with owners, design professionals, and trade partners is key to successful project outcomes.

Role Description

The Project Estimator/Pre-Construction professional is a full-time, on-site role based in Chattanooga, TN. This role is responsible for preparing detailed estimates for commercial and industrial construction projects, including quantity take-offs, pricing labor and materials, and evaluating subcontractor proposals. Day-to-day tasks include analyzing drawings and specifications, developing budgets and cost models, and collaborating with project managers and leadership to refine scopes and value-engineering options. The individual will participate in pre-construction planning, assist with bid strategies and schedules, and help identify project risks and opportunities. The role also involves maintaining estimating databases, communicating clearly with internal teams and external partners, and supporting smooth handoff from pre-construction to operations.

Qualifications

• Strong construction estimating and project estimation skills, with the ability to interpret plans, specifications, and scopes of work.
• Cost management and budgeting skills to develop accurate project budgets, track assumptions, and support value-engineering efforts.
• Clear and professional communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with clients, design teams, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Experience in commercial and/or industrial construction, including familiarity with building systems, materials, and trade sequencing.
• Proficiency with estimating software, spreadsheets, and basic project management tools; ability to learn new systems as needed.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills, with attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple bids and deadlines.
• Relevant education such as an associate or bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Ability to work on-site in Chattanooga, TN, and coordinate occasional site visits within the company’s service regions.
• 10+ Years of Experience as a Project Estimator in Commercial Contracting.