Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Preconstruction Engineer to support our preconstruction and estimating efforts across a diverse portfolio of commercial, institutional, and government projects. This role plays a critical part in developing accurate cost estimates, evaluating project feasibility, and supporting design and budgeting decisions early in the project lifecycle.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical knowledge with a collaborative mindset and has experience in quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and scope development. Exposure to unit price estimating and Job Order Contracting (JOC) platformsis valued.

Key Responsibilities:

Preconstruction & Estimating Support

• Assist in the preparation of detailed construction cost estimates, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor pricing.

• Performaccurate quantitytakeoffs using drawings, specifications, and digital tools.

• Support development of conceptual, schematic, and GMP-level budgets throughout project phases.

• Help maintain organized and well-documented cost breakdowns for internal and external use.

• Apply value engineering concepts and cost-saving strategies where appropriate.

Design & Scope Analysis

• Review architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, and proposals to understand project scope and requirements.

• Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, and potential risk areas.

• Coordinate with the design team to evaluate materials, systems, and construction approaches.

• Assist in constructability reviews and early-stage design coordination efforts.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to clarify project scope, construction methods, and pricing assumptions.

• Communicate effectively with internal teams to ensure accurate handoff of awarded estimates for project execution.

• Assist in developing bid strategies and coordinating bid submissions with estimating and operations leadership.

Software & Technology Use

• Usegeneralestimating software (e.g.,PlanSwift,Building Connected,Bluebeam,ProEst, or similar) and spreadsheets to develop, document, and present cost data.

• UseJob Order Contractingestimating software (e.g.,RSMeans,eGordian,SimpleBid, or similar systems)to create unit price proposals

• Leverage databases and digital tools to streamline quantity takeoffs and pricing accuracy.

• Maintain digital archives of past estimates for reference and benchmarking.

Bid Process Participation

• Attend and contribute to pre-bid meetings, site walkthroughs, and RFI discussions as required.

• Coordinate subcontractor and supplier solicitations, gather pricing, and perform bid-leveling comparisons.

• Participate in post-bid reviews and support final negotiations, clarifications, or scope adjustments.

Market & Cost Tracking

• Monitor industry cost trends, labor rates, and commodity pricing to ensure estimates reflect current market conditions.

• Track subcontractor and supplier performance and pricing history to inform bid strategies.

• Maintain and update internal cost databases for ongoing accuracy and reliability.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• 1-5years of experience as a construction estimator or in a related preconstruction role.

• Proficiency in reading construction drawings, specifications, and technical documents.

• Strong knowledge of estimating principles, methods, and best practices.

• Experience with estimating software such as Bluebeam,PlanSwift,ProEst, or similar tools.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively under tight deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

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

• Experience withRSMeans, Gordian, CannonDesign, or other JOC platforms for unit price estimating.

• Familiarity with public sector procurement and Job Order Contracting (JOC) methods.

• Experience in commercial, healthcare, education, or government construction projects.

Reports To:

Head EstimatorDirector of Operations

Coordinates / Assists With:

• Subcontractors & Vendors

• Business Development Department

• Preconstruction Department

• Marketing Department

• Operations Department

Expectations:

• Demonstrate strong communication and collaboration skills in a team-oriented environment

• Meet deadlinesandpositivelycontribute to team goals while upholdingcompany values.

• Take ownership of tasks andconsistentlydeliver high-quality work. 

• Deliver accurate, complete, and well-documented estimates.

• Maintain high standards of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

• Proactively seek opportunities for growthand career development.

Build Brilliantly | Eastern Builders, Inc.