Senior Preconstruction Estimator

About the role

The Senior Preconstruction Estimator position is an exciting opportunity to join PM Group’s quickly growing Philadelphia‑area team out of Conshohocken, PA. The role supports cutting‑edge pharmaceutical, biologics, and cell & gene therapy manufacturing facilities from feasibility through qualification for local and international clients. The senior‑level estimator will combine client engagement with technical cost‑planning challenges, develop accurate and strategic cost solutions throughout all phases of project development, and mentor junior estimators while advancing PM Group’s estimating standards, tools, and processes. Projects span all design stages—including feasibility studies, conceptual and schematic design, detailed engineering, construction documentation, procurement support, and construction administration—and include new construction and renovations of life‑sciences facilities. Travel to client sites and PM Group offices is required periodically.

Responsibilities

• Develop and prepare conceptual, budgetary, and detailed construction cost estimates for life sciences projects throughout the project lifecycle.
• Review project scope, design documentation, and client requirements to establish accurate and comprehensive cost models.
• Perform quantity take‑offs and analyze labor, equipment, material, and subcontractor costs.
• Evaluate project risks, assumptions, opportunities, and cost drivers, and incorporate findings into estimate development.
• Obtain, evaluate, and negotiate budget pricing and proposals from subcontractors, suppliers, and vendors.
• Conduct market and cost research to support estimating accuracy and benchmarking efforts.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, architects, procurement personnel, and construction teams to develop cost‑effective project solutions.
• Prepare and present estimate reports, cost analyses, and recommendations to clients, project teams, and senior leadership.
• Support project planning activities, including budgeting, scheduling, resource forecasting, and value‑engineering exercises.
• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of estimating methodologies, standards, tools, and databases.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and industry partners.
• Mentor and support the professional development of junior estimators and other project team members.
• Other special projects as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in cost estimating, quantity surveying, project controls, construction management, or a related function within an engineering, consulting, owner, contractor, or life‑sciences organization.
• Demonstrated experience preparing construction cost estimates across multiple project phases, from conceptual design through construction documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to provide strategic cost guidance to project teams and clients, influencing decisions during planning, design, and execution phases.
• Experience supporting pharmaceutical, biotechnology, semiconductor, advanced manufacturing, or other complex industrial projects is strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies, engineering disciplines, procurement strategies, and project delivery processes.
• Strong understanding of risk management and risk mitigation.
• Proficiency with industry‑standard estimating software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem‑solving skills with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret engineering and architectural drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong organizational skills and a commitment to quality, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
• Willingness to travel approximately 15% as required by project and client needs.

Why PM Group?

PM Group is an employee‑owned, international project delivery firm with over 4,000 professionals serving the pharma, food, biotech, medical‑technology, and mission‑critical sectors worldwide. The company is committed to sustainable growth centered on its people, clients, and trade partners, and it emphasizes corporate responsibility, inclusion, and diversity. PM Group’s 2026 business strategy places environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals at its core, and the firm fosters a culture of mutual respect, belonging, and continuous improvement. The hiring process is designed to be fair and accessible, with reasonable accommodations provided to candidates with disabilities.