Preconstruction Estimator
Location: Murrieta, CA (On-site only)
Compensation: $140,000 to $170,000 base salary plus bonuses (10% to 20% of salary)
Benefits: 100% employer-paid employee and dependent medical, dental, and vision; 4% 401(k) match; stock plan; paid time off
About the Role
I have been retained with GC with rapid growth seeking an experienced Preconstruction Estimator to join a well-established commercial general contractor. This is a key role in our preconstruction team, responsible for developing accurate cost estimates, supporting project planning, and partnering with project managers, executives, and clients to ensure successful project launches.
Responsibilities
- Prepare detailed cost estimates for commercial construction projects from conceptual to final bid stage
- Review plans, specifications, and bid documents to determine scope and requirements
- Conduct quantity take-offs and solicit competitive bids from subcontractors and suppliers
- Identify cost-saving opportunities and value engineering options
- Collaborate with project managers, architects, engineers, and clients during design and preconstruction phases
- Track historical cost data and maintain estimating database for accuracy and efficiency
- Prepare budgets, proposals, and presentations for clients and internal stakeholders
- Assist in project scheduling, phasing, and logistics planning during preconstruction
Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of commercial construction estimating experience with a general contractor
- Strong knowledge of building systems, materials, and means and methods
- Proficient in estimating software and Microsoft Office Suite
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
Preconstruction Estimator
- Works before a project is awarded or starts construction.
- Often part of the preconstruction team , collaborating with owners, architects, and engineers during design.
- Helps shape the scope, budget, and schedule early on.
- Performs conceptual and schematic estimates when drawings are incomplete.
- Advises on cost-saving options, constructability, phasing, and materials selection.
- May assist with proposal writing and presentations to win the job.
Normal Estimator (often just “Estimator” or “Construction Estimator”)
- Works when project documents are more complete, usually during the bidding phase or after award.
- Focuses on quantifying materials, labor, and equipment from completed plans and specs.
- Prepares detailed takeoffs, cost breakdowns, and subcontractor solicitations.
- Less involved in early design decisions — more focused on pricing an established scope accurately.
In short :
- Preconstruction Estimator = early-stage strategist, shaping the job before it’s built.
- Normal Estimator = detail-focused cost builder, pricing from finalized plans.
Why Join
This position offers stability, a collaborative work environment, and a comprehensive benefits package that covers you and your dependents 100%—plus a lucrative bonus program, stock plan, and matching 401(k). You’ll be part of a growing team that values expertise, precision, and long-term career growth.
If you want, I can also create a shorter, more hard-hitting version for LinkedIn or Indeed that will stand out in search results and attract top candidates quickly.