Location: Brighton, MI (On-Site)
Compensation: $80,000 – $120,000 (Based on Experience)
Overview
A growing, well-established construction organization is seeking a Project Manager / Estimator (Entry-Level) to join its Preconstruction and Project Management team. This role is designed for early-career professionals looking to build a long-term path in estimating, preconstruction, and project execution within a collaborative, high-performance environment.
This position offers hands‑on exposure to estimating, subcontractor coordination, and project lifecycle support, with a structured development path toward advanced preconstruction leadership roles.
Position Summary
The Project Manager / Estimator will support the planning, estimating, and early‑stage execution of construction projects. Working closely with senior estimators, project managers, and leadership, this individual will assist with quantity takeoffs, subcontractor coordination, cost analysis, and project documentation.
This is a high‑growth role ideal for someone who wants to develop into a full‑cycle estimator and project leader.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform quantity takeoffs (concrete, steel, finishes, and general trades) using drawings and specifications
- Assist in developing conceptual and detailed cost estimates
- Enter quantities and pricing into Excel‑based estimating templates
- Support cost benchmarking and historical data analysis
- Review plans/specifications (architectural, structural, MEP) for scope understanding
Subcontractor & Procurement Coordination
- Assist with subcontractor outreach, bid solicitation, and follow‑ups
- Support evaluation and comparison of subcontractor proposals
- Help identify scope gaps, overlaps, and clarifications
- Participate in early procurement activities and vendor coordination
Project & Design Coordination
- Attend owner, architect, and internal coordination meetings
- Assist with tracking design changes, addenda, and revisions
- Support documentation of estimate narratives and assumptions
- Collaborate with Project Managers on project handoff and buyout preparation
Tools & Technology
- Utilize tools such as:
- Bluebeam for measurements and takeoffs
- On‑Screen Takeoff (OST) or PlanSwift (preferred)
- Microsoft Excel for cost tracking and estimate development
- Assist with document control and digital plan management
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 2 years + of experience in construction, estimating, or project engineering
- Strong ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
- High attention to detail and organizational skills
- Strong communication skills with the ability to work in a team environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Exposure to Bluebeam, PlanSwift, or On‑Screen Takeoff (OST)
- Internship or field experience in commercial or industrial construction
- Basic understanding of construction means and methods
- Interest in design‑build delivery and preconstruction processes
Core Competencies
- Foundational understanding of construction estimating and cost structures
- Ability to learn unit pricing, labor productivity, and cost assemblies
- Strong analytical mindset with attention to scope completeness and accuracy
- Effective communication across internal teams and external partners
- Willingness to learn and grow within a structured development program
Growth & Development Path
This role is part of a structured Preconstruction development program:
Phase 1 (0–24 Months):
- Master blueprint reading and quantity takeoffs
- Gain hands‑on experience in estimating tools and subcontractor coordination
- Support full estimate lifecycle and bid‑day activities
- Long‑term path toward Senior Estimator / Director of Preconstruction
Why This Opportunity
- Clear, structured career growth path in preconstruction and estimating
- Exposure to full project lifecycle—from concept through award
- Collaborative environment with strong mentorship from senior leadership
- Competitive compensation with long‑term advancement potential
For estimators taking on smaller project & full discipline responsibility.
Advanced Training
- Conceptual estimating (using historical cost data and/or select vendors)
- Detailed assemblies and composite pricing
- Intermediate scheduling awareness (impact in cost)
- Using vendor quotes and market pricing
- Bid analysis and evaluation of leveling sheets
Responsibilities
- Own specific CSI division(s) for estimates
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- Development of subcontractor lists
- Lead Owner, Architect & Contractor Meetings during the Preconstruction Process
- Assigning bid day scopes to other team members
- Evaluate and level subcontractor proposals
- Participate in design‑review meetings and cost check‑ins
- Coordinate with PMs on Project Buyout and handoff after award
Outcome: Able to independently prepare estimates and contribute to full estimate packages.