Preconstruction Manager / Estimator

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• Developing order-of-magnitude, schematic, and design-development estimates to support early project decisions.
• Establishing project budgets, cost models, and escalation assumptions aligned with project scope and schedule.
• Identifying potential construction challenges, scope gaps, and risk areas during design to reduce cost overruns and change orders.
• Evaluating alternative materials, systems, and methods to improve cost efficiency without compromising quality or performance.
• Defining clear scopes of work, coordinating with architects, engineers, and consultants, and ensuring bid packages are complete and accurate.
• Developing bid strategies, prequalifying subcontractors, soliciting bids, and leveling proposals.
• Identifying and communicating project risks and scope gaps, and developing strategies to mitigate exposure prior to construction.
• Understanding how construction sequencing and schedule impacts pricing, logistics, and labor availability.
• Producing estimates, bid tabulations, clarifications, exclusions, and recommendations for executive review.
• Collaborating and communicating with project managers, operations, and leadership to align preconstruction decisions with execution strategy.

Requirements

• Highest level of analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
• Ability to work under time and budget pressures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Proficiency in estimating and takeoff software (e.g., Bluebeam, Excel-based systems, estimating platforms).
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• A good working knowledge of mechanical, civil, and construction engineering properties and how that relates to the company’s projects.
• Knowledge of construction means, methods, materials, and sequencing.
• Knowledge of quantity takeoff procedures and cost analysis.
• Knowledge of subcontractor scopes, vendor pricing, and procurement practices.
• Knowledge of contract delivery methods and bid structures.
• Knowledge of value engineering and constructability principles.
• Knowledge of labor productivity, equipment utilization, and material costs.
• Knowledge of risk identification, scope gaps, and exclusions.
• Knowledge of estimating handoff procedures to operations.
• Knowledge of the Preconstruction process.

Skills

• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills.
• Ability to work under time and budget pressures.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Proficiency in estimating and takeoff software (e.g., Bluebeam, Excel-based systems, estimating platforms).
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

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

Pay

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

Schedule

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.