Estimator​/Preconstruction Manager

At Colas Construction (COLAS), we believe every employee plays a vital role in our mission: to build legacies and strengthen communities. We value collaboration, adaptability, and a team-first mindset.

We are seeking an experienced Estimator to lead preconstruction efforts from conceptual design through project handoff. This role is ideal for a collaborative construction professional who thrives in high performing team environments, enjoys strategic problem-solving, and can confidently manage complex estimates while building strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and project teams.

As an experienced Estimator, you will play a critical role in developing accurate budgets, identifying project risks and opportunities, supporting business development efforts, and helping drive successful project outcomes across a diverse portfolio of commercial construction projects.

• Prepare accurate and timely conceptual estimates, GMPs, Lump Sum pricing, budgets, and cost models for projects ranging from $10K to $100MM.
• Develop estimates for civil, architectural, structural, and MEPF systems from early design through final pricing.
• Identify project risks, cost drivers, and atypical conditions while providing value engineering and cost‑saving recommendations aligned with project goals.
• Lead preconstruction meetings, presentations, and coordination efforts with owners, architects, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams.
• Manage bid documents, subcontractor bid packages, clarifications, qualifications, exclusions, assumptions, and Cost Revision Logs (CRLs).
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, vendors, and industry partners to ensure competitive pricing and complete bid coverage.
• Monitor market trends, labor conditions, material pricing, and subcontractor availability to maintain current and competitive estimates.
• Collaborate with operations and project teams to ensure smooth project turnover from preconstruction to construction.
• Support project cost management efforts through quantity takeoffs, workforce production analysis, change order pricing, and estimate revisions.
• Ensure all bids, budgets, and documentation are completed accurately, reviewed, and submitted within established deadlines while maintaining data within Foundation Software and company systems.
• Mentor Estimator I and Estimator II team members and contribute to the continuous improvement of estimating processes, standards, and best practices.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field preferred; equivalent industry experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 7‑10 years of progressive estimating and preconstruction experience within commercial construction or a related industry.
• Demonstrated experience managing preconstruction efforts for mid‑to‑large‑scale commercial projects, including conceptual estimating, GMP development, and Lump Sum bidding.
• Proven ability to successfully deliver projects within budget, schedule, and client expectations.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, systems, constructability, and current market conditions.
• Proficiency with estimating and project management software, including Sage, Procore, Bluebeam, Smartsheet, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Project).
• Experience performing quantity takeoffs and document review using Bluebeam or comparable takeoff software.
• Ability to read, interpret, and analyze architectural drawings, engineering documents, specifications, and bid packages.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, budgeting, and cost management skills with the ability to develop complex estimates and pricing strategies.
• Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
• Valid driver’s license required.

The physical and work environment requirements described below are representative of those necessary to successfully perform the essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made for qualified individuals with disabilities on a case‑by‑case basis.

This position is primarily…