Senior Preconstruction Leader — Estimating & Bids

Wharton-Smith, Inc.; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Wharton-Smith, Inc. is seeking a Senior Preconstruction Manager to lead preconstruction efforts in Tampa, FL. The role focuses on accurate cost estimates, subcontractor relations, proposals, and a smooth hand-off to operations.

Senior candidates will mentor junior estimators, develop bid strategies, and manage complex pursuits within Hard Bid, CM, and Design-Build contexts, leveraging PlanSwift and Excel.

Qualifications

• 15–20 years of total construction experience (20 preferred).
• 10+ years in preconstruction (required).
• Experience with Hard Bid, Construction Management, and Design-Build delivery methods.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field.
• PlanSwift and Excel proficiency.
• Residency in or near Palm Beach Gardens/Southeast Florida with knowledge of the local market.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed estimates across all trades for Lump Sum, CM, and Design-Build projects.
• Develop bid strategies that maximize competitiveness while maintaining budget accuracy.
• Perform quantity take-offs using PlanSwift and similar estimating software.
• Use unit cost methods and Excel-based formats to develop conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction document estimates.
• Prepare budgets and proposals from all drawing levels (SD/30%, DD/60%, CD/90%).
• Provide constructability reviews and value management recommendations to support project goals.
• Present estimates and cost breakdowns to owners, architects, and project stakeholders.
• Lead solicitation, scope review, and evaluation of subcontractor and vendor proposals.
• Organize and conduct pre-bid subcontractor meetings and site walkthroughs.
• Select subcontractor/vendor proposals for incorporation into final bids.
• Conduct site visits to assess construction methods and conditions to inform competitive bid strategies.
• Supervise and mentor junior estimators assigned to projects.
• Work collaboratively within strict deadlines to support bid-day activities and make timely subcontractor recommendations.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, design consultants, subcontractors, owner representatives, and internal staff throughout the preconstruction phase.
• Lead the Project Hand-off Meeting to ensure comprehensive knowledge transfer from Preconstruction to Operations.

Skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Presentation skills

Leadership

Bid strategy development

Education

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

Tools

PlanSwift

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Wharton-Smith, Inc. is seeking a Senior Preconstruction Manager to lead preconstruction efforts in Tampa, FL. The role focuses on accurate cost estimates, subcontractor relations, proposals, and a smooth hand-off to operations.

Senior candidates will mentor junior estimators, develop bid strategies, and manage complex pursuits within Hard Bid, CM, and Design-Build contexts, leveraging PlanSwift and Excel.