Job Description

Position Overview

The Conceptual Estimator is a key member of the preconstruction team responsible for preparing early-phase project budgets and estimates when design details are limited or still evolving. This role supports the pursuit of new work, guides clients and design teams through cost implications, and provides critical input that influences design direction, constructability, and project feasibility. Working for a Construction Manager, the Conceptual Estimator must combine industry knowledge, historical data, and creative problem-solving to develop reliable cost models and pricing strategies that win work and build client trust.

A LEGACY OF BUILDING CAREERS

At HGC Construction, we are building for the long haul. We believe in doing exceptional work with people who share our values. We recognize that our employees are more than just professionals—they’re individuals with families, passions, and fulfilling lives outside of work. That’s why we emphasize the importance of striking a balance between working hard and living well. Our culture thrives on celebrating shared victories, supporting each other's growth, and leaving a positive mark on our clients and community. Together, we’re not just building structures—we’re building a legacy of quality, integrity, and purpose.

Key Responsibilities

Design Phase Estimating

• Develop conceptual budgets and order-of-magnitude estimates based on limited design information, narratives, or performance criteria.
• Produce detailed line-item estimates based on quantity counts and quantities determined from assumptions.
• Analyze historical project data, market trends, and cost indices to generate accurate pricing benchmarks.
• Prepare cost models and update them throughout design development to maintain alignment with the client’s budget goals.
• Develop detailed line-item estimates throughout the progression of design.

Client & Design Team Collaboration

• Engage with clients, architects, and engineers to review design options, materials, and systems that impact cost.
• Provide real-time cost feedback during design meetings to support informed decision-making.
• Assist in value management and life cycle cost analysis to achieve the best value within budget constraints.

Preconstruction & Business Development

• Support the pursuit and procurement of new work by preparing budgets for CM proposals, feasibility studies, and design-build RFP responses.
• Participate in pre-bid and client meetings to communicate scope, budget assumptions, and cost drivers.
• Coordinate with trade partners and estimators to validate conceptual estimates and test assumptions.

Documentation & Reporting

• Develop estimate Work Breakdown Structures to clearly communicate estimate breakdowns.
• Maintain estimate database, detailed cost reports, pricing logs, and benchmarking data.
• Clearly communicate estimate basis, inclusions, exclusions, and assumptions to both internal teams and clients.
• Develop variance reports to show estimate updates from each of the design phases.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
• 5–10 years of estimating or preconstruction experience, with an emphasis on conceptual budgeting.
• Proven ability to develop reliable budgets with incomplete information across diverse market sectors.

Skills & Competencies

• Deep understanding of building systems, construction means and methods, and local market conditions.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and creatively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Proficiency in estimating software, digital database tools, digital quantity takeoff softwares, and MS Office Suite. Familiarity with BIM and model-based estimating is a plus.
• Ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with clients, design teams, and trade partners.

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