Strategic Lead Estimator – Preconstruction & Bids

Consolidated Contracting; San Clemente (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401K plan

Paid vacations

Paid holidays

Sick leave

Gym membership

Bonus potential

Continuing education

Job summary

Consolidated Contracting is seeking a driven Lead Estimator to lead bid strategy, deliver accurate estimates, and help win high-value construction projects. You will coordinate teams, subcontractors, and stakeholders through the preconstruction process, ensuring comprehensive bid coverage and strong commercial decisions.

The role requires 5–7+ years of estimating experience with a GC, familiarity with construction documents, and leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
• 5–7+ years estimating or preconstruction experience with a GC or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Lead assigned bids from start to finish, ensuring strong strategy, thorough coverage, and no last-minute emergencies.
• Prepare accurate, competitive estimates across multiple projects while managing deadlines and priorities.
• Review plans, specs, and contract documents to identify scope, risks, opportunities, and project requirements.
• Coordinate estimators, subcontractors, and vendors to ensure complete bid coverage (minimum 3 bids per major trade).
• Attend job walks, pre-bid meetings, and collaborate with project managers and superintendents.
• Negotiate scope, pricing, and coverage with subcontractors and vendors.
• Maintain historical cost data and continuously improve subcontractor database quality.
• Support a culture of accountability, urgency, and excellence within the estimating team.

Skills

Construction docs

Negotiation

Leadership

Excel

Microsoft Project

Primavera

Education

Construction Management degree

Civil Engineering / Architecture background

Tools

None

Job description

Consolidated Contracting is seeking a driven Lead Estimator to lead bid strategy, deliver accurate estimates, and help win high-value construction projects. You will coordinate teams, subcontractors, and stakeholders through the preconstruction process, ensuring comprehensive bid coverage and strong commercial decisions.

The role requires 5–7+ years of estimating experience with a GC, familiarity with construction documents, and leadership skills.