Strategic Preconstruction & Estimating Leader

LG Group; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Compensation

Unlimited PTO

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

401k Match

Downtown Office HQ

Exciting Project Work

Job summary

LG Builders is seeking a seasoned Preconstruction and Estimating Manager to lead budget development, feasibility studies, and bid strategies for hospitality and multi-family projects in Chicago. You will work with clients, design teams, and internal stakeholders to deliver accurate estimates and value-engineering solutions, ensuring alignment with project goals and schedules.

The role requires strong analytical skills, 5+ years in estimating/preconstruction, and proficiency with Bluebeam,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Construction Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in estimating, preconstruction, and construction project management, preferably in commercial hospitality and multi-family projects.
• Strong technical and communication skills; proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite is required; knowledge of estimating software and tools such as Bluebeam, Procore, and Sage
• Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings and manuals is preferred.
• Efficiently prioritize tasks and identify long lead times and critical path items.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the preconstruction phase, including budget development, feasibility studies, and schedule analysis.
• Collaborate with project teams, clients, and design partners to define project scopes and goals.
• Provide creative value-engineering solutions to enhance project efficiency while maintaining quality and design intent.
• Develop and manage comprehensive cost estimates, ensuring accuracy, competitiveness, and alignment with project objectives.
• Review drawings, specifications, and other documentation to prepare estimates.
• Conduct bid leveling and subcontractor/vendor negotiations to ensure scope alignment and cost efficiency.
• Partner with Business Development to support bid strategies and secure new opportunities.
• Lead scope review meetings with clients and project teams to align expectations.
• Work with Project Managers and Superintendents to establish achievable budgets and schedules.
• Implement and refine estimating processes and tools to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Stay current on market trends, construction costs, and industry practices to maintain competitive pricing.
• Identify and communicate project risks during the preconstruction phase.
• Collaborate with legal and project management teams to ensure contracts reflect project requirements.

Skills

Estimating

Preconstruction

Construction Mgmt

Bluebeam

Procore

Sage

MS Office

Education

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

Tools

Bluebeam

Procore

Sage

Job description

LG Builders is seeking a seasoned Preconstruction and Estimating Manager to lead budget development, feasibility studies, and bid strategies for hospitality and multi-family projects in Chicago. You will work with clients, design teams, and internal stakeholders to deliver accurate estimates and value-engineering solutions, ensuring alignment with project goals and schedules.

The role requires strong analytical skills, 5+ years in estimating/preconstruction, and proficiency with Bluebeam,