Preconstruction Engineer

About the job

Role Summary
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Preconstruction Engineer to support our preconstruction and estimating efforts across a diverse portfolio of commercial, institutional, and government projects. This role plays a critical part in developing accurate cost estimates, evaluating project feasibility, and supporting design and budgeting decisions early in the project lifecycle.
The ideal candidate combines strong technical knowledge with a collaborative mindset and has experience in quantity takeoffs, cost analysis, and scope development. Exposure to unit price estimating and Job Order Contracting (JOC) platforms is valued.

• Key Responsibilities:
• Preconstruction & Estimating Support
• Assist in the preparation of detailed construction cost estimates, including labor, materials, equipment, and subcontractor pricing.
• Perform accurate quantity takeoffs using drawings, specifications, and digital tools.
• Support development of conceptual, schematic, and GMP-level budgets throughout project phases.
• Help maintain organized and well-documented cost breakdowns for internal and external use.
• Apply value engineering concepts and cost-saving strategies where appropriate.

• Design & Scope Analysis
• Review architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, and proposals to understand project scope and requirements.
• Identify scope gaps, constructability concerns, and potential risk areas.
• Coordinate with the design team to evaluate materials, systems, and construction approaches.
• Assist in constructability reviews and early-stage design coordination efforts.

• Collaboration & Communication
• Work closely with project managers, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to clarify project scope, construction methods, and pricing assumptions.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams to ensure accurate handoff of awarded estimates for project execution.
• Assist in developing bid strategies and coordinating bid submissions with estimating and operations leadership.

• Software & Technology Use
• Use general estimating software (e.g., PlanSwift, Building Connected, Bluebeam, ProEst, or similar) and spreadsheets to develop, document, and present cost data.
• Use Job Order Contracting estimating software (e.g., RSMeans, eGordian, SimpleBid, or similar systems) to create unit price proposals .
• Leverage databases and digital tools to streamline quantity takeoffs and pricing accuracy.
• Maintain digital archives of past estimates for reference and benchmarking.

• Bid Process Participation
• Attend and contribute to pre-bid meetings, site walkthroughs, and RFI discussions as required.
• Coordinate subcontractor and supplier solicitations, gather pricing, and perform bid-leveling comparisons.
• Participate in post-bid reviews and support final negotiations, clarifications, or scope adjustments.

• Market & Cost Tracking
• Monitor industry cost trends, labor rates, and commodity pricing to ensure estimates reflect current market conditions.
• Track subcontractor and supplier performance and pricing history to inform bid strategies.
• Maintain and update internal cost databases for ongoing accuracy and reliability.

• Ideal Candidate Profile
• 1-5 years of experience as a construction estimator or in a related preconstruction role.
• Proficiency in reading construction drawings, specifications, and technical documents.
• Strong knowledge of estimating principles, methods, and best practices.
• Experience with estimating software such as Bluebeam, PlanSwift, ProEst, or similar tools.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively under tight deadlines.

• Preferred Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
• Experience with RSMeans, Gordian, CannonDesign, or other JOC platforms for unit price estimating.
• Familiarity with public sector procurement and Job Order Contracting (JOC) methods.
• Experience in commercial, healthcare, education, or government construction projects.

Reports To:
Head Estimator / Director of Operations

• Coordinates / Assists With:
• Subcontractors & Vendors
• Business Development Department
• Preconstruction Department
• Marketing Department
• Operations Department

• Expectations:
• Demonstrate strong communication and collaboration skills in a team-oriented environment
• Meet deadlines and positively contribute to team goals while upholding company values.
• Take ownership of tasks and consistently deliver high-quality work.
• Deliver accurate, complete, and well-documented estimates.
• Maintain high standards of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.
• Proactively seek opportunities for growth and career development.

• Employment Details
• Full-Time, Salaried
• Location: Onsite – Duluth, GA

• Benefits
• Up to 85% company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with 100% company match up to 5%
• Discretionary Paid Time Off (DPTO) - We offer a Discretionary Paid Time Off (DPTO) program to support work-life balance. Employees may request time off in advance through the company system, with manager approval based on business needs
• Plum Benefits: Employee discounts on entertainment, travel, shopping, and lifestyle experiences

• Physical Requirements
• Work in both office and construction site environments.
• Traverse active construction sites for extended periods.
• Communicate effectively in person, by phone, and through electronic communication.
• Occasionally climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl during site visits and inspections.
• Occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds.

EEO
Eastern Commercial is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

About Eastern Commercial
Eastern Commercial is the full-service commercial general contracting division of Eastern Companies. Building on decades of experience in building envelope construction, we deliver comprehensive construction solutions across the education, healthcare, hospitality, multifamily, commercial, and institutional sectors.
Our team is committed to excellence in every phase of construction, combining technical expertise, collaboration, and accountability to deliver high-quality projects safely, on time, and within budget. With offices in Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia, Eastern Commercial serves clients throughout the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, helping transform visions into lasting structures.

Why Join Us?
At Eastern Commercial, you'll be part of a growing organization built on integrity, accountability, and quality craftsmanship. We empower our team members to take ownership, collaborate with experienced professionals, and contribute to projects that shape communities across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. If you're looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, grow your career, and be part of a team committed to excellence, we'd love to hear from you.