Preconstruction Manager / Estimator

1. POSITION DESCRIPTION SUMMARY
   

The function of the Msquare Construction, Inc.’s Estimator is to prepare accurate, complete, and competitive cost estimates for construction projects. This position is responsible for reviewing drawings, specifications, and contract documents; performing quantity takeoffs; soliciting and analyzing subcontractor and supplier pricing; identifying scope gaps and risks; and assisting management in bid strategy development.

The Chief Estimator supports business development and operations by providing reliable cost data, value engineering alternatives, and risk analysis to ensure profitable project execution. This role works closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, Operations, and Executive Management to support project award and successful transition from preconstruction to construction.

2. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
   

The person in this position should be highly analytical, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple bids simultaneously under strict deadlines. The Chief Estimator must have a strong background in construction means and methods, materials, labor productivity, and subcontractor scopes of work.

The Chief Estimator must be able to visualize the completed project through reviewing drawings and specifications, identify constructability issues, evaluate alternative methods, and develop pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with risk management and profitability.

This position requires strong communication and negotiation skills to interface with subcontractors, vendors, engineers, architects, and internal project teams. The Chief Estimator must work independently while maintaining close coordination with Operations and Project Management. The individual must uphold the Company’s image as a professional, well-managed construction organization.

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REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

3.1 Reports to Operations Manager or Vice President (as assigned)

3.2 Positions reporting to the Chief Estimator:

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REQUIREMENTS

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

4.1 Education: Bachelor’s Degree preferred in Construction Management, Engineering, or related discipline. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.

4.2 Professional Registration:

Professional certifications such as Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), Certified Construction Manager (CCM), or similar credentials are preferred but not required.

4.3 Licensing/Training:

4.3.1 Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required

4.3.2 OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 safety training preferred

4.3.3 Construction estimating software training preferred

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4.4 Experience: Must have a minimum of 5 years of estimating and preconstruction experience in the construction industry. Experience with commercial, municipal, infrastructure, or design-build projects is preferred. Experience soliciting subcontractor bids, preparing detailed takeoffs, and developing competitive estimates is required.

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4.5 Skills:

4.5.1 Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently

4.5.2 Strong mathematical and analytical skills

4.5.3 Ability to work under time and budget pressures

4.5.4 Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

4.5.5.Proficiency in estimating and takeoff software (e.g., Bluebeam, Excel-based systems, estimating platforms)

4.5.6 Strong organizational and documentation skills

4.5.7 Effective written and verbal communication skills

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4.6 Knowledge: Must have a good working knowledge of mechanical, civil, and construction engineering properties and how that relates to the company’s projects.

4.6.1 Knowledge of construction means, methods, materials, and sequencing

4.6.2 Knowledge of quantity takeoff procedures and cost analysis

4.6.3 Knowledge of subcontractor scopes, vendor pricing, and procurement practices

4.6.4 Knowledge of contract delivery methods and bid structures

4.6.5 Knowledge of value engineering and constructability principles

4.6.6 Knowledge of labor productivity, equipment utilization, and material costs

4.6.7 Knowledge of risk identification, scope gaps, and exclusions

4.6.8 Knowledge of estimating handoff procedures to operations

4.6.9 Knowledge of the Preconstruction process

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• Conceptual and Preliminary Estimating
  Developing order-of-magnitude, schematic, and design-development estimates to support early project decisions.

• Cost Planning and Budget Development
  Establishing project budgets, cost models, and escalation assumptions aligned with project scope and schedule.

• Constructability Review
  Identifying potential construction challenges, scope gaps, and risk areas during design to reduce cost overruns and change orders.

• Value Engineering
  Evaluating alternative materials, systems, and methods to improve cost efficiency without compromising quality or performance.

• Scope Definition and Coordination
  Defining clear scopes of work, coordinating with architects, engineers, and consultants, and ensuring bid packages are complete and accurate.

• Subcontractor and Vendor Procurement
  Developing bid strategies, prequalifying subcontractors, soliciting bids, and leveling proposals.

• Risk Assessment and Mitigation
  Identifying financial, schedule, and constructability risks and developing strategies to mitigate exposure prior to construction.

• Schedule and Phasing Awareness
  Understanding how construction sequencing and schedule impacts pricing, logistics, and labor availability.

• Preconstruction Deliverables
  Producing estimates, bid tabulations, clarifications, exclusions, and recommendations for executive review.

• Collaboration and Communication
  Working closely with project managers, operations, and leadership to align preconstruction decisions with execution strategy.

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4.7 Mental Aptitude: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to make sound judgment decisions based on incomplete or evolving information. Highly detail-oriented while maintaining the ability to evaluate projects at a macro level. Must possess high integrity, professionalism, and accountability.

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4.8 Interpersonal Skills: Must have strong interpersonal skills to maintain effective working relationships with Project Managers, Superintendents, subcontractors, vendors, engineers, and executive leadership.

4.8.1 Ability to analyze complex construction documents and develop accurate   pricing

4.8.2 Manage multiple bids and deadlines concurrently

4.8.3 Communicate pricing assumptions, risks, and recommendations clearly

4.8.4 Support bid strategy and management review processes

4.8.5 Work Environment:

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The Estimator function is primarily performed in an office environment. Occasional job site visits may be required for site evaluations, pre-bid meetings, or constructability reviews. Standard office physical requirements apply.

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4.9 Work Hours:

This is a salaried position requiring a minimum of 40 hours per week.

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5.0 AUTHORITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

5.1 Authority:

The Estimator is delegated sufficient authority by management tocarry out assigned responsibilities, including the authority to:

5.1.1 Solicit subcontractor and supplier pricing

5.1.2 Develop quantity takeoffs and cost estimates

5.1.3 Recommend bid strategies, contingencies, and value engineering options

5.1.4 Identify and communicate project risks and scope gaps

5.1.5 Participate in bid review meetings and pricing discussions

5.1.6 Support negotiation and project handoff activities

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5.1 Authority:

The Estimator is accountable to management for the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of all estimates prepared. This position is accountable for supporting profitable project acquisition, maintaining estimating standards, and promoting a professional image of Msquare Construction, Inc.

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Therefore, the undersigned are in common agreement on the functional role of Chief Estimator, as outlined in this document.  It is understood and agreed that this Position Description is intended to serve as a listing of the requirements for this position, the authority for action that the individual occupying the Chief Estimator position has and the responsibilities and duties to be performed. It is not intended as a contract for employment, nor does it guarantee employment for any period of time. Msquare Construction, Inc. provides equal opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color creed, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital or HIV status, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, ancestry, handicap, or disability. Employment decisions will be based on whether the employee is able to perform the essential functions of the job.  Accommodation will be considered as long as it does not pose an undue hardship to the Company and a direct threat to the health and safety of others.

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I understand that in order to participate in any Company incentive plan, I must maintain or achieve a minimum acceptable performance as measured by a score of 3.1 or better for each category in the Position Description.  Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

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