Preconstruction Estimator

Job Description

Job Description

Who We Are

Headquartered in Quitman with multiple offices across the state, Jackson Construction has been a leader in the K-12 market, serving Texas communities for more than 41 years. As a general contractor in the commercial construction industry, Jackson Construction consistently exceeds its customers' expectations through team work and a safety-first approach, while steadily increasing its reach across multiple market sectors.

Position Summary

As our Preconstruction Estimator specializing in commercial construction, you will develop accurate cost estimates and support project planning to ensure competitive and profitable bidding. We'll count on you to analyze project requirements, prepare detailed material take-offs, solicit subcontractor bids, and collaborate with pre-construction and operations teams to evaluate construction costs effectively. In this key role, you'll leverage your analytical skills, vendor relationships, and decision-making abilities to assess project scope, track historical pricing, and negotiate competitive subcontractor pricing. Your expertise in cost evaluation, budgeting, and project coordination will be instrumental in supporting strategic project execution.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Project Scope Review

Review construction plans, specifications, and site conditions to fully understand project requirements.

Cost Estimation

Prepare detailed material and labor quantity takeoffs to produce precise cost estimates for preconstruction planning and project execution.

Subcontractor and Vendor Management

Identify qualified subcontractors and suppliers, solicit competitive bids, analyze proposals, and support the selection process to ensure cost-effective, well-defined scopes of work.

Bid Tabulation and Award Recommendations

Prepare clear bid tabulations comparing cost, scope, and compliance to support informed award decisions.

Risk Assessment and Value Engineering

Identify potential risks and propose cost-effective alternatives without compromising quality or efficiency.

Collaboration with Design and Operations

Work closely with architects, engineers, and project teams to evaluate design changes, assess cost impacts, and refine scope details.

Cost Tracking and Historical Pricing

Maintain and utilize a historical cost database to enhance estimating accuracy and inform future budgeting.

Market and Industry Analysis

Monitor material costs, labor rates, and market trends to provide competitive, well-informed estimates.

Continuous Improvement

Review past estimates and project results to refine estimating methods and improve accuracy over time.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Experience in estimating commercial construction projects.
• Proficiency in quantity takeoffs, cost estimating, and subcontractor bid evaluation.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings and specifications accurately.
• Experience with Procore, SmartBid, Bluebeam Revu, and Microsoft Office Suite preferred.