Job DescriptionJob DescriptionPre-Construction Estimator / Project ManagerLocation: Westbrook, ME or Needham, MA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Development & Construction Manager
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are seeking an experienced Pre-Construction Estimator / Project Manager to lead estimating efforts and oversee project delivery from concept through construction. This role is central to our ability to make projects successful, control costs, and deliver projects profitably across our retail, commercial, healthcare, and residential portfolios.
The ideal candidate combines deep estimating expertise with strong project management instincts — someone who can read a set of plans, build a budget, and then guide the project through execution.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Pre-Construction & Estimating (Primary)
• Perform thorough quantity takeoffs and develop detailed, accurate cost estimates for materials, labor, equipment, subcontractors, and general conditions across all project phases
• Analyze architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, addenda, and project requirements to identify scope, constructability concerns, and cost drivers
• Prepare and present conceptual, schematic, and hard-bid estimates to internal leadership and clients
• Solicit, evaluate, and level subcontractor and supplier bids to ensure competitive and complete pricing
• Lead value engineering sessions with project teams and design professionals, analyzing alternative materials, systems, and construction methods to optimize project costs while maintaining design intent, performance standards, and owner expectations
• Identify additional value engineering opportunities and propose alternatives that reduce cost without compromising quality or intent
• Flag scope gaps, ambiguities, exclusions, and potential risks early in the estimating process
• Maintain and continuously improve estimating databases, templates, historical cost data, and unit pricing
• Develop and maintain proposed project schedules
Project Management (Secondary)
• Manage and coordinate assigned construction projects from pre-construction through closeout, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to specification
• Develop and maintain project schedules, logistics plans, scopes of work, and procurement strategies
• Lead project meetings and coordinate with architects, engineers, owners, subcontractors, and internal teams
• Prepare and manage project budgets, change orders, and monthly cost reporting
• Monitor project progress against baseline schedules and budgets, proactively addressing variances
• Review and negotiate subcontracts and purchase orders
Business Development & Relationships
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and design professionals
• Support business development efforts through accurate and timely bid submissions
• Represent the company professionally in bid presentations, interviews, and client meetings
• Maintain an up-to-date directory of qualified trade partners, vendors, and subcontractors
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a closely related field
• Minimum 5–10 years of progressive experience in construction estimating and/or project management, with a strong pre-construction background
• Demonstrated success estimating and managing medium-to-large-scale retail, commercial, healthcare, and residential projects, with an understanding of the unique code requirements, regulatory standards, and construction complexities specific to each sector
• Advanced ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contract documents
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, means, sequencing, and current market pricing
• Proficiency with estimating software (e.g., Bluebeam, PlanSwift, ProEst, HCSS, or similar), scheduling tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6), and the Microsoft Office suite
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
Preferred
• Experience with both hard-bid and negotiated/design-build delivery methods
• Familiarity with value engineering principles and life-cycle cost analysis
• Experience with retail rollout programs, tenant improvement buildouts, and multi-site project coordination
• Familiarity with residential building codes, HOA/community standards, and mixed-use development requirements
• Experience leveraging AI-powered tools and technologies (e.g., AI-assisted takeoff software, generative estimating platforms, or machine learning-based cost modeling) to improve estimating speed, accuracy, and decision-making
• Established network of subcontractor and supplier relationships in the local market
WHAT SETS YOU APART
• You look beyond what’s on the drawings — you ask the right questions and anticipate what’s missing
• You’re proactive and resourceful when it comes to solving complex problems around cost, lead times, trade availability, and materials
• You take ownership of your estimates and your projects from start to finish
• You thrive in a collaborative environment but can work independently with minimal oversight
Waterstone Properties is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
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