Senior Preconstruction Cost Estimator -- Commercial GC

Shape the numbers that shape skylines

Join a growing, national commercial general contractor as a Senior member of the preconstruction team in Northbrook, IL. You’ll lead early-phase pricing and scope development for a diverse portfolio—hospitality, retail, office, industrial, multifamily, and mixed‑use—setting each project up for success from day one.

Compensation: Up to $180,000 DOE

A day in this role

Your morning might begin with a schematic review and a quick pass at quantity takeoffs for a mixed-use tower. By lunch, you’re aligning a preliminary budget with a Guaranteed Maximum Price target and refining bid scopes. In the afternoon, you’re comparing subcontractor proposals, pressure-testing value engineering ideas with the design team, and updating the estimate to reflect schedule and logistics. You’ll close the day by logging market intel and pricing history for the next pursuit.

What you will do

• Build conceptual through detailed estimates and precise quantity takeoffs
• Assemble budgets, develop GMP proposals, and craft comprehensive trade bid packages
• Evaluate drawings, specifications, phasing, logistics, and schedule impacts on cost
• Source, solicit, and rigorously analyze subcontractor and supplier pricing
• Drive value engineering options and cost‑reduction strategies without compromising design intent
• Participate in meetings with clients, architects, and the internal project team
• Cultivate subcontractor relationships and maintain accurate historical cost databases

What you bring

• 5+ years of commercial construction estimating experience
• Background in civil and structural estimating a plus
• Bachelor’s in Construction, Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and modern estimating platforms
• Exceptional communication, organization, and analytical acumen

Ready to set the cost trajectory for standout commercial projects? We’d love to connect.