Senior Estimator & Preconstruction Lead

Elite-Recruiting-; Montgomery (AL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Elite-Recruiting- is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to lead estimating and preconstruction for commercial construction projects. The role requires developing accurate cost estimates, managing preconstruction, and coordinating subcontractor procurement.

The ideal candidate will have strong estimating expertise, excellent communication, and the ability to collaborate with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and project teams to deliver competitive, high-quality proposals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in CM/Engineering/Architecture or related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• 10+ years of commercial construction estimating and preconstruction experience.
• Experience estimating projects ranging from $1 million to $20 million+.
• Proficiency with estimating software such as Bluebeam, Procore, BuildingConnected, PlanSwift, OST, or similar platforms.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, negotiation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design development, GMP, and final construction estimates.
• Perform detailed quantity takeoffs and pricing for labor, materials, equipment, and subcontracted work.
• Review drawings, specifications, geotechnical reports, and project documents to develop comprehensive estimates.
• Develop competitive pricing strategies while maintaining profitability goals.
• Maintain historical cost databases and estimating benchmarks.
• Present estimate reviews to executive leadership prior to submission.
• Lead preconstruction activities from project pursuit through turnover to operations.
• Develop project budgets, preliminary schedules, logistics plans, and procurement strategies.
• Coordinate subcontractor and supplier bidding efforts.
• Conduct subcontractor 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 closely with operations teams to ensure a seamless transition from preconstruction to project execution.
• Support project teams with change order pricing, budget updates, and cost analysis.
• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, owners, architects, and consultants.
• Mentor junior estimators and contribute to estimating standards and best practices.
• Manage multiple estimates and preconstruction efforts simultaneously while meeting deadlines.

Skills

Estimating Expertise

Communication Skills

Collaboration

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in CM/Engineering/Architecture or related

Tools

Bluebeam

Procore

BuildingConnected

PlanSwift

OST

Job description

Elite-Recruiting- is seeking an experienced Senior Estimator to lead estimating and preconstruction for commercial construction projects. The role requires developing accurate cost estimates, managing preconstruction, and coordinating subcontractor procurement.

The ideal candidate will have strong estimating expertise, excellent communication, and the ability to collaborate with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and project teams to deliver competitive, high-quality proposals.