Preconstruction Engineer

Brief Description

Your primary role is to support the preconstruction and bidding process for commercial construction projects by preparing accurate quantity take-offs, cost estimates, and bid packages. This role works closely with Preconstruction Managers and Project Managers to analyze drawings, specifications, and project requirements to develop competitive and reliable project pricing.

$100K - $15 million

Commercial (office, retail, mixed‑use, light industrial, etc.)

Remodels, Renovations, Small Ground‑Up and Tenant Improvements

• Calculate various statistical data – quantity take-offs, material prices, labor costs per hour, equipment, etc. based on drawings and specifications
• Research historical data (purchase orders, subcontracts, productivity analysis reports, etc.) and compile summary reports to develop guidelines and procedures for future estimates/budgets
• Review project specifications, drawings, and conduct coordination meetings to determine scope of work and required contents of estimate/budget
• Identify scope gaps, alternates and value engineering opportunities
• Prepare estimates for assigned projects
• Maintain files of working documents as back‑up for estimate figures
• Follow awarded contracts as assigned – may include estimating extra work items, change orders, credits, procuring material, etc.

• Develop strong subcontractor relationships
• Prepare bid packages and scopes of work for subcontractors and suppliers
• Solicit, receive, and evaluate subcontractor bids
• Compare bids for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with project scope/drawings/specifications
• Assist in leveling bids and preparing bid summaries

• Participate in pre‑bid meetings, site visits, and scope reviews
• Assist with constructability reviews and schedule considerations
• Collaborate with project teams during estimate hand‑off to operations
• Assist with request for proposal responses and interviews
• Perform additional assignments per supervisor’s direction

• College degree preferred in Construction Management, Engineering or related field or equivalent experience
• 1‑5 years of construction estimating, cost control and/or related experience
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications
• Experience with Bluebeam Revu and take‑off tools preferred
• Familiarity with unit prices, construction means & methods, labor productivity and our geographic markets

• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Collaborative, team‑oriented with a proactive approach to solving problems
• Ability to read and interpret commercial construction drawings and specifications
• Requires the ability to manage multiple projects/deadlines at different stages in the preconstruction process
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required

Key:
Rarely (0‑20%), Occasionally (21‑50%), Frequently (51‑80%), and Continuously (81+%)

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Performance of the required duties will require physical ability to:

• Occasionally climb permanent and temporary stairs
• Occasionally balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, and/ or crawl
• Occasionally requires passenger use of construction personnel hoists.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds
• Frequently negotiate work areas under construction
• Continuous use of hands / fingers for keyboarding / mouse / and touchscreens

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Additionally, there is frequent sitting/standing at a desk.

This position generally requires 8‑10 hours a day Monday‑Friday. This position is office based with visits to potential construction projects and projects that are under construction. When walking around a construction job site/potential job site the incumbent may be exposed to weather conditions, dust, noise, chemicals, odors, and fumes. The position is deadline driven.