Chief Estimator

Chief Estimator / Director of Preconstruction

About the Opportunity

An established general contractor is seeking a Chief Estimator / Director of Preconstruction to lead estimating and preconstruction for complex commercial, institutional, and mixed-use building projects. The organization is known for its focus on operational excellence, safety, and client satisfaction.

Position Overview

This senior leadership role oversees estimating and preconstruction functions, driving accurate cost projections, competitive bids, and successful project pursuits. The role leads estimating teams, partners with clients and executive leadership, and develops strategies for negotiated and hard-bid opportunities while protecting profitability and managing risk.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead estimating and preconstruction teams across multiple projects and pursuits.
• Mentor and develop Estimators and Preconstruction Managers, strengthening technical capabilities and commercial judgment.
• Align team performance with company financial goals and risk management standards.

Estimating & Preconstruction Management

• Oversee conceptual, schematic, and detailed estimates for commercial, institutional, and mixed-use projects.
• Manage budgets, scheduling, value engineering, constructability reviews, and risk assessments.
• Ensure accuracy, transparency, and profitability across estimates, proposals, and bid submissions.
• Lead bid reviews, subcontractor scope analysis, and final pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness and healthy margins.

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the primary client contact during preconstruction, managing expectations around cost, schedule, and risk.
• Develop value-driven solutions that balance quality, cost, and project requirements.
• Participate in presentations, interviews, and negotiations to secure new business.

Market Strategy & Industry Relationships

• Build and maintain relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and industry partners.
• Monitor market conditions, labor trends, and material costs to inform pricing strategies.
• Partner with business development to evaluate the financial viability of prospective projects.

Risk Management & Financial Oversight

• Identify and mitigate scope, pricing, logistics, and scheduling risks.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, contract requirements, and industry standards.
• Report preconstruction activity, profitability forecasts, risk exposure, and pipeline health to executive leadership.
• Promote cost discipline, risk awareness, and commercial accountability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive estimating and preconstruction experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success estimating large-scale commercial, institutional, and mixed-use vertical construction projects.
• Strong knowledge of estimating methods, cost controls, scheduling, and industry best practices.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and construction software such as Autodesk Build, Primavera P6, Bluebeam, or equivalent platforms.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, including the ability to explain value, risk, and return on investment to clients and executive leadership.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability and life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching.
• Tuition reimbursement after one year of employment.
• Paid time off.
• Engaging work environment.