Senior Estimator & Preconstruction Lead

Elite-Recruiting-; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Elite-Recruiting- seeks a Senior Estimator in Perry, GA to lead estimating and preconstruction for commercial projects. You will develop accurate cost estimates, manage budgets, and drive pursuit from concept through award.

You will review drawings, coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and project teams to deliver competitive proposals and ensure profitability. Strong communication is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent industry experience in CM/Engineering/Architecture.
• 10+ years of commercial construction estimating and preconstruction experience.
• Experience estimating projects from $1 million to $20 million+.
• Proficient with estimating software such as Bluebeam, Procore, BuildingConnected, PlanSwift, OST.
• Ability to read and interpret drawings, specs, and contract documents.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, negotiation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, GMP, and final estimates.
• Perform quantity takeoffs and pricing for labor, materials, equipment, and subs.
• Review drawings and documents to develop comprehensive estimates.
• Develop competitive pricing strategies while maintaining profitability.
• Maintain historical cost databases and estimating benchmarks.
• Present estimate reviews to executive leadership prior to submission.
• Lead preconstruction activities from pursuit through turnover to operations.
• Develop budgets, preliminary schedules, logistics plans, and procurement strategies.
• Coordinate subcontractor and supplier bidding efforts.
• Conduct bid leveling, scope reviews, and value engineering analyses.
• Perform constructability reviews and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Evaluate project risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Participate in owner meetings, design reviews, and preconstruction planning sessions.
• Work with operations teams to ensure a smooth transition from preconstruction to execution.
• Support change order pricing, budget updates, and cost analysis.
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, owners, architects, and consultants.
• Mentor junior estimators and contribute to estimating standards.

Skills

Estimating

Cost analysis

Leadership

Communication

Preconstruction management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field

Tools

Bluebeam

Procore

BuildingConnected

PlanSwift

OST

Job description

Elite-Recruiting- seeks a Senior Estimator in Perry, GA to lead estimating and preconstruction for commercial projects. You will develop accurate cost estimates, manage budgets, and drive pursuit from concept through award.

You will review drawings, coordinate with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and project teams to deliver competitive proposals and ensure profitability. Strong communication is essential.