Preconstruction Engineer

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We are one of the nation’s largest MEP design-build firms, delivering integrated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) solutions across the full building lifecycle. With a legacy of innovation and a commitment to quality, we serve markets including healthcare, education, mission-critical, infrastructure, and commercial development through design-build, energy optimization, and construction excellence.

Position Summary:

As a Preconstruction Engineer , you will play a vital role in the front-end of our design-build projects, supporting project pursuit, cost estimating, design coordination, and early-stage planning. You will collaborate closely with estimating teams, design engineers, business development, project executives, and external stakeholders to bring clarity, innovation, and value to the preconstruction process. Your work ensures seamless transition from concept through construction, helping to secure and plan projects that reflect our high standards for quality and performance.

Key Responsibilities:

Cost Estimating & Quantity Takeoffs

• Assist in developing detailed conceptual and schematic estimates for MEP scopes using estimating software (e.g., Trimble Autobid, Accubid, WinEst).
• Perform accurate material and labor quantity takeoffs from drawings, BIM models, and design narratives for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems.
• Support subcontractor and supplier outreach for pricing and scope validation.
• Analyze cost drivers, trends, and historical data to help refine budgets and identify opportunities for value engineering.
• Collaborate with in-house engineering teams to ensure constructibility and cost-effectiveness of mechanical/electrical designs.
• Participate in design coordination meetings, contributing construction insights and schedule/cost implications.
• Assist with scope reviews, drawing markups, and preparation of preliminary design narratives and basis-of-design documents.
• Develop early-phase milestone and phase schedules to support pursuit and bid planning.
• Integrate construction means and methods into schedule development to ensure feasibility and efficiency.
• Coordinate with project teams to align preconstruction deliverables with procurement and field startup timelines.
• Support development of proposals, scope narratives, RFP responses, and client presentations.
• Help craft bid deliverables including logistics plans, schedule graphics, cost summaries, and risk registers.
• Contribute technical information to qualifications packages and interviews for design-build pursuits.
• Maintain organized records of historical costs, unit pricing, subcontractor quotes, and takeoff data.
• Assist in the development of tools, templates, and workflows to improve preconstruction efficiency and accuracy.
• Contribute to lessons-learned and process improvement initiatives to evolve our preconstruction practices.

Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, Architectural Engineering, or a related technical field required.
• Advanced coursework or certification in estimating, project controls, or scheduling is a plus.

Experience

• 5+ years of experience in preconstruction, estimating, or construction engineering, preferably with an MEP contractor or design-build firm.
• Internships or co-ops in construction estimating or field engineering are highly valued.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Bluebeam, and estimating tools (e.g., Trimble Autobid, On-Screen Takeoff, Revit).
• Familiarity with BIM, Revit/Navisworks, and digital quantity takeoff workflows.
• Understanding of MEP systems, construction sequences, and industry terminology.

Soft Skills

• Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities—must be comfortable interacting with engineers, project managers, clients, and vendors.
• Able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Project Management

• Industries

  Construction and Building Construction

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