Preconstruction Estimator

OFFICES

Careers

Preconstruction Estimator

Preconstruction Estimator

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

|

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Preconstruction Estimator will be responsible for analyzing and preparing project plans, specifications, and related documents to prepare accurate and timely cost estimates and bids for retail, restaurant, office and hospitality, as well as special projects, including seismic, public work, healthcare, life science and institutional. We have on-site openings in our Santa Clara and San Francisco offices.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop conceptual budgets during early design phases using historical project data, system benchmarks, and unit costs (Programming, Schematic Design, and Design Development stages).

Review drawings from all disciplines—including architectural, structural, and MEP—to prepare cost estimates for Core & Shell (C&S) and Tenant Improvement (TI) projects.

Build cost models using internal data and prior project experience to support early feasibility studies and preliminary budget planning, often before subcontractor market feedback is available.

Analyze building systems (structure, envelope, MEP infrastructure, interiors, etc.) to identify key cost drivers and inform design decisions.

Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare scope narratives to support estimate development.

Prepare clear lists of inclusions, exclusions, and qualifications for client proposals.

Evaluate design options and material selections to assess cost impacts and identify value engineering opportunities.

Review subcontractor and supplier proposals during later preconstruction phases and confirm alignment with the project budget.

Prepare bid tabulations and leveling during estimating and later preconstruction phases.

Track project budgets from conceptual estimate through GMP development, identifying potential cost risks, gaps, and variances.

Collaborate with project managers, preconstruction staff, and design teams to maintain alignment between project scope, schedule, and budget.

Prepare estimate summaries, cost reports, and presentations for internal and client review.

Assess cost impacts related to design revisions, scope changes, and schedule adjustments.

REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field.

5+ years of experience in commercial construction estimating or preconstruction.

Experience estimating Core & Shell and Tenant Improvement projects.

Strong knowledge of conceptual estimating methods, including the use of historical cost data and system-based budgeting.

Proven experience performing independent quantity takeoffs.

Experience developing early-stage budgets without full reliance on subcontractor pricing.

Proficiency in reading and interpreting architectural, structural, and MEP drawings.

Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.

Excellent organizational and document management skills.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Proficiency with Bluebeam, Timberline (or similar estimating software), Ediphi, Salesforce, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Word.

Experience developing conceptual schedules using Microsoft Project or Primavera.

Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Information for Recruiters and Agencies/Staffing Firms: Build Group does not accept unsolicited agency resumes. Please do not forward unsolicited agency resumes to our website or to any Build Group employee. Build Group will not pay fees to any third-party agency or firm and will not be responsible for any agency fees associated with unsolicited resumes. Unsolicited resumes received will be considered the property of Build Group.

Notice to California Residents/Applicants: In connection with your application, we collect information that identifies, reasonably relates to, or describes you (“Personal Information”).

The categories of Personal Information that we collect include your name, government-issued identification number(s), email address, mailing address, other contact information, employment history, educational history, and demographic information.

We collect and use those categories of Personal Information about you for human resources and other business management purposes, including identifying and evaluating you as a candidate for potential or future employment or future contract positions, recordkeeping in relation to recruiting and hiring, conducting criminal background checks as permitted by law, conducting analytics, and ensuring compliance with applicable legal requirements and Company policies.

Equal Opportunity Employment: Build Group provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment, free from unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any other status or condition protected by local, state or federal law.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, training, orientation, placement, discipline, promotion, transfer, position elimination, rehire, benefits, compensation, retirement and termination. As an equal opportunity employer, Build Group seeks to hire employees based solely on their qualifications and abilities.

KEEP ME UPDATED

© 2026 Build Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Project & Resume Portal