Project Estimator, Preconstruction - Charleston

Company: HarperGC
Location: Summerville
Posted on: February 20, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Salary: Company Mission Statement:To build up our communities, our clients, and each other by building trust in everything we do. Summary/Objective: The Preconstruction Team works collaboratively with Owners and Design Engineers to procure quality projects that are, well defined, meets the Clients need, aligns with Harpers Operations Team requirements, is accurately estimated, is fairly budgeted, is realistically scheduled, is safely constructible and will earn a fair and reasonable profit. The goal of the Preconstruction Team is to procure profitable, well-defined construction contracts for the Harper Operations Team to execute. In that pursuit, we will give accurate, personal service to our clients and help them understand and realize all aspects of their potential construction project. Essential Functions: Prepare estimates with the necessary level of detail for all design stages: Conceptual, Schematic Design, Design Development, and Construction Documents. Prepare quantity take-offs and estimated costs of materials, labor, and use of equipment required to fulfill all provisions of the contract. Demonstrate proficiency in material, labor, sub, and equipment pricing for all trade disciplines. Assemble general conditions estimates for review by Project Management. Assist with maintaining the estimating cost database to ensure costs are up to date. Manage job-specific estimating teams in the assembly and submission of bids. Review estimate assignments to ensure accuracy and completeness prior to formal submission. Consult with clients, architects, subcontractors, and material suppliers to discuss and formulate estimates, effect cost reductions, and resolve issues. Study specifications to assist the operations team in planning procedures for construction. Research construction documents and analyze specifications to determine estimated costs. Work with the operations team throughout the preconstruction process in reviewing plans and specifications for constructability issues and determining general requirements on the project. Understand how to create bid packages and bid alternate strategies. Ensure that all work items from the scope review are included in the estimate. Prepare clear, properly formatted, Bid Package Scope Analysis Worksheets; review Bid Analysis Worksheets prepared by others for coordination. Manage the subcontractor solicitation process using iSqFt. Assure that the appropriate team members are part of the approval process for all bid lists. Issue bid invitations to subcontractors/vendors. Review subcontractor and supplier bids for conformity to contract requirements and determine acceptable bids. Present and explain project budgets to clients, designers, and operation teams. Perform comprehensive bid day analysis and scoping of specific assigned trades. Understand how to scale subs to the size/scope of the project. Communicate with subcontractors on key issues, such as project schedules, addenda, and scopes of work. Ensure that there is proper trade package coverage of subcontractors on bid day. Ensure that all quantity surveys and pricing are accurate and complete. Seek and qualify new subcontractors. Competencies: Forward-thinking, progressive, dynamic leader who has excellent interpersonal and management skills. Thorough understanding of project logistics and project schedules. Ability to read and understand construction specifications and drawings. Strong knowledge of standard estimating practices. Excellent oral and written business communication skills. Comfortable and convincing in public presentations and project interviews. Strong attention to detail. Ability to multitask, prioritize, and handle pressure in a fast-paced environment. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Ability to maintain flexibility and a positive attitude. Ability to collaborate with different personalities and be a fully contributing team player. Familiarity/proficiency with the following software or internet-based programs: Beck Technology DESTINI Estimator, or similar database estimating platform. On-Screen Takeoff. Bluebeam. Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) Education and Experience: Bachelors Degree in Construction Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Construction Management preferred. Minimum 3 years of construction experience. Significant knowledge and experience in Construction Manager at Risk, Design-Build, Negotiated, and competitively bid projects. Proven track record of success working internally with an operations team and externally with Owners, Architects/Engineers, and subcontractors. Benefits: Competitive benefit package. 401(k). Transparency in growth, pay, etc. Career advancement. Performance feedback. Teambuilding events. Supervisory Responsibilities: None. Work Environment: This position is required to work in a variety of conditions relative to construction job site environments and must be able to perform the physical requirements of the job, as assigned. Exposure to weather, heat, etc. is expected when visiting job sites. Travel Required: Minimal travel is required. Occasional errands or company meetings may be needed. Must have valid US driver's license. Additional Eligibility Requirements: None. Work Authorization/Security Clearance Requirements: Authorized to work in the United States. Affirmative Action/EEO Statement: Harper GCprovides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance withapplicable federal, stateand local laws. Harper GC complies withapplicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Keywords: HarperGC, Summerville , Project Estimator, Preconstruction - Charleston, Construction , Summerville, South Carolina