Estimator, Construction, Civil Engineering

Job Details

Location:

OVERLAND PARK, KS 66203
Position Type:
Full Time
Estimator / Preconstruction Manager

DI Build is seeking a highly collaborative and detail-oriented Estimator / Preconstruction Manager to support our growing Design + Build project delivery approach. This role is more than a traditional takeoff and bid position — we are looking for someone who understands how to partner with owners, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and field operations early in the process to help shape projects from concept through execution.

The ideal candidate is proactive, relationship‑driven, commercially aware, and comfortable operating in a fast‑paced entrepreneurial environment where collaboration, responsiveness, and creative problem‑solving are critical. This individual will play a key role in budgeting, conceptual estimating, value engineering, subcontractor engagement, preconstruction planning, and helping clients make informed decisions throughout the design and construction lifecycle.

• Prepare conceptual, schematic, design‑development, and GMP estimates across multiple project phases.
• Develop accurate quantity takeoffs and pricing analyses using drawings, specifications, and conceptual information.
• Build and maintain detailed cost databases and historical pricing.
• Solicit, level, and analyze subcontractor and supplier bids.
• Identify project risks, scope gaps, constructability concerns, and pricing opportunities early in the process.
• Participate in value engineering exercises while protecting project quality, schedule, and owner goals.
• Collaborate closely with design partners and internal stakeholders to align scope, budget, and constructability.
• Assist with budgeting during early‑stage project pursuits where drawings may be incomplete or evolving.
• Develop and maintain preliminary schedules and logistics assumptions in coordination with operations teams.

• Work directly with clients, architects, engineers, and consultants during the design process.
• Support integrated project delivery and collaborative planning efforts.
• Provide real‑time pricing feedback during design development.
• Help guide material selections and system decisions based on budget, schedule, and constructability.
• Participate in owner meetings, design meetings, and internal strategy discussions.
• Support a solutions‑oriented culture focused on partnership rather than transactional bidding.

• Assist leadership with proposals, qualifications, presentations, and project pursuits.
• Build and maintain strong subcontractor and vendor relationships.
• Help strengthen repeat‑client relationships through responsiveness and professionalism.
• Represent DI Build in a professional manner aligned with the company’s culture and values.

• Partner with project managers and field leadership during project handoff.
• Assist in scope review and buyout strategy.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within estimating and preconstruction workflows.
• Contribute to lessons‑learned reviews and historical cost tracking.

• 5+ years of estimating or preconstruction experience within commercial construction.
• Experience working for a General Contractor, Construction Manager, or Design + Build firm.
• Strong understanding of commercial construction methods, materials, sequencing, and subcontractor trades.
• Experience preparing conceptual and detailed estimates across multiple project types.
• Ability to read and interpret architectural, structural, civil, and MEP drawings/specifications.
• Experience managing subcontractor outreach and bid evaluation.
• Proficiency with estimating and construction software platforms.

• Experience with in collaborative Design + Build or negotiated work environments.
• Experience with conceptual budgeting from limited information.
• Familiarity with value engineering and constructability review processes.
• Experience supporting client‑facing preconstruction meetings.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.

• Estimating software…