Chief Estimator – OHLA Building; Preconstruction

Overview

Who is OHLA USA
? We are a global construction and infrastructure company dedicated to building a better, safer, and more sustainable world for generations to come. With projects spanning across Europe, Latin America, and North America, we bring international expertise and innovative solutions to the communities we serve. We are committed to making a difference within our communities, who depend on the safety and reliability of the structures we build—and this is only possible with our greatest asset:
our people
!

OHLA USA brings together the construction industry s most diverse talent who thrive in a collaborative work environment and embrace challenges and opportunities.

OHLA Building, a division of OHLA USA, is a leading general contractor specializing in vertical construction, delivering high-quality commercial, institutional, and mixed-use projects. With a focus on operational excellence, safety, and client satisfaction, we bring decades of experience to complex building environments—ranging from high-rises and schools to government and infrastructure-related vertical structures.

The Chief Estimator – Preconstruction will oversee and lead all estimating and preconstruction functions, ensuring accurate cost projections, competitive bids, and successful project acquisition. This role plays a critical part in driving OHLA Building’s growth by managing estimating teams, coordinating with clients, and developing strategies for both negotiated and hard-bid pursuits.

• Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and manage the estimating and preconstruction team across multiple projects and pursuits.

• Mentor, train, and develop Estimators and Preconstruction Managers to strengthen technical expertise and leadership skills.

• Collaborate with executive leadership to establish long-term strategies for preconstruction excellence and market competitiveness.

• Estimating & Preconstruction Management

• Oversee preparation of conceptual, schematic, and detailed cost estimates for commercial, institutional, and mixed-use building projects.

• Manage preconstruction deliverables including budgets, schedules, value engineering, constructability reviews, and risk assessments.

• Ensure accuracy and completeness of all estimates, proposals, and bid submissions.

• Lead bid reviews, subcontractor scope analysis, and final pricing strategy.

• Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients during the preconstruction phase.

• Build strong client relationships by providing accurate budgets, value-driven solutions, and transparent communication.

• Participate in client presentations, interviews, and negotiations to secure new business opportunities.

• Market Strategy & Subcontractor Relationships

• Develop and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners to ensure competitive pricing and reliable participation.

• Monitor market conditions, labor trends, and material costs to inform pricing strategies.

• Support business development teams with estimating input on target projects and pursuit strategies.

• Risk Management & Compliance

• Identify and evaluate risks in project scope, pricing, and schedule during preconstruction.

• Ensure compliance with company policies, contract requirements, and industry standards.

• Provide executive leadership with comprehensive reporting on preconstruction activities and project pipeline health.

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field.

• 12+ years of progressive estimating and preconstruction experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

• Proven success managing estimates for large-scale vertical building projects (commercial, institutional, mixed-use).

• Strong knowledge of estimating techniques, cost control systems, scheduling, and industry practices.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and estimating software (e.g., Autodesk Build, Primavera P6, Bluebeam, or equivalent).

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to present confidently to clients and executive leadership.

Additional Benefits offered by OHLA USA:

• Medical, Dental, & Vision Insurance

• Short- and…