Preconstruction Senior Estimator

Job Title: Preconstruction Senior Estimator

Location: FL, USA

Position Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire

Salary Range: $100,000 – $130,000 Base Salary + Annual Performance Bonus

Work Authorization: U.S. Citizen (USC) or Green Card (GC) Holder Only

Position Overview

We are seeking an accomplished Preconstruction Senior Estimator to lead detailed estimating for major commercial and institutional construction projects in the Miami market. In this role, you will drive precision in cost analysis, ensure transparency in project budgeting, and align estimates with design intent and client objectives. You will partner closely with Preconstruction Managers, subcontractors, and internal teams to develop comprehensive, defensible cost models that win work and set the foundation for profitable project delivery. The ideal candidate brings strong experience in commercial construction estimating, advanced proficiency in estimating software, and a proven track record of supporting design-build and design-assist delivery methods.

Key Responsibilities & Essential Duties

1. Detailed Estimating & Cost Analysis

Prepare comprehensive quantity takeoffs and detailed cost analyses across all project scopes, ensuring complete accuracy and coverage.

Review project documentation, specifications, contract terms, and design details to prepare constructability reviews, preliminary and final estimates, and request for information (RFI) summaries.

Develop and maintain robust cost histories and pricing databases for benchmarking and continuous improvement of future estimates.

Lead communication with subcontractors and vendors for bid solicitation, scope reviews, and leveling processes to ensure competitive and accurate pricing.

2. Value Engineering & Design-Phase Support

Support value engineering initiatives by analyzing alternate approaches and materials to reduce costs without compromising quality or schedule.

Participate in design-assist and design-build projects, providing early-stage cost input to inform design decisions and optimize project economics.

Collaborate with design teams and clients to develop preliminary budgets and cost narratives that align with project goals and constraints.

3. Contract Development & GMP Finalization

Collaborate with Preconstruction Managers to review contract terms, assess risks, and finalize guaranteed maximum price (GMP) proposals with supporting documentation.

Ensure all cost estimates include appropriate contingencies, markups, and overhead allocations aligned with company standards and project risk profiles.

Prepare clear, detailed scope of work documents and bid summaries that communicate assumptions and exclusions to internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications & Position Requirements

Required Experience & Technical Skills

Estimating Experience: Seven to ten years of dedicated estimating experience in commercial construction, including heavy, structural, and institutional project types.

Software Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in takeoff and estimating software systems, with strong understanding of CSI divisions and trade-specific cost evaluation.

Delivery Method Knowledge: Demonstrated experience with negotiated Construction Manager and design-assist project delivery methods.

Project Delivery: Deep understanding of mechanical systems, building codes, and construction sequencing as they relate to cost estimation.

Education & Professional Certifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field strongly preferred, or equivalent combination of field experience and technical training.

Core Competencies & Soft Skills

Analytical Excellence: Exceptional capability to analyze complex bid documents, identify scope gaps, reconcile subcontractor proposals, and prepare clear cost comparisons.

Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to quantity verification, pricing accuracy, and documentation to ensure all estimates withstand scrutiny.

Communication & Negotiation: Superior written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills for collaborating with subcontractors, design teams, clients, and internal leadership.

Time Management: Proven ability to manage multiple competing deadlines, complex estimates, and high-pressure bid schedules without sacrificing quality.

Continuous Improvement: Strong commitment to refining estimating processes, building cost databases, and incorporating lessons learned from project performance.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Primary work is conducted in a standard office setting in Miami, FL.

Periodic travel to active jobsites, client meetings, and project walkthroughs within the South Florida region.

Ability to work in variable weather conditions during site visits and adjust schedule based on project demands.

Compensation & Benefits Package

Base Salary: $100,000 – $130,000 annually (commensurate with experience).

Incentives: Annual performance bonus structure tied to bid accuracy and project profitability.

Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options, 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off (PTO), and professional development support.