Director of Preconstruction and Estimating

Florida Construction Connection, Inc.

The Role

Overview

Lead and develop preconstruction and estimating for large commercial projects

Key Responsibilities

  • cost modeling
  • bid management
  • estimating
  • preconstruction
  • process development
  • metrics reporting

Tasks

-Partner with operations leadership (project directors, superintendents, field teams) to ensure estimating inputs align with constructability, staffing, scheduling and risk mitigation. -Collaborate with business development / sales to evaluate opportunities, assess risk, perform cost modelling and recommend bid / pursue decisions. -Lead and manage the preconstruction and estimating department, including estimating managers, senior estimators, junior estimators, take-off staff, and preconstruction team members. -Lead subcontractor solicitation strategy, bid day strategy, bid analysis, scope reviews, cost breakdowns, and ensure that bids align with company strategy, risk posture and market conditions. -Serve as a culture-champion: reinforce company values, promote safety, quality, diversity and team collaboration. -Oversee conceptual, schematic, design-development and construction document stage estimating; ensure accurate, timely budgets, quantity surveys, cost plans and value engineering. -Develop, implement and maintain standardized estimating and preconstruction processes, systems, tools and metrics for large commercial projects ($20M+ to $100M+). -Mentor and develop the estimating/preconstruction staff; establish clear career pathways, performance metrics and encourage professional growth. -Participate in departmental and senior leadership team meetings; contribute to strategic planning, budgeting and resource allocation for the preconstruction function. -Drive continuous improvement in estimating and preconstruction practices: benchmarking, implementing best practices, leveraging technology (take-off software, BIM, data analytics), standardizing templates and databases. -Monitor and report key departmental metrics: win rate, margin performance, estimating accuracy, estimating cycle times, subcontractor/vendor coverage, cost database updates, lessons learned.

Requirements

  • estimating software
  • quantity takeoffs
  • cost databases
  • design‑build
  • bachelor’s degree
  • 10+ years

What You Bring

We are seeking a seasoned Director of Preconstruction & Estimating who will lead, develop and own the full preconstruction and estimating function for the firm while actively involved in detail and utilizing a competent team. This role will drive strategic direction, refine process and systems, mentor a high-performing team, partner closely with business development and operations, and ensure the company consistently wins and delivers high-quality, profitable projects. You will be the bridge between the front-end vision and the execution reality. At FLCC, we know it can be difficult to manage your career when you are immersed in your daily activities. Our trademarked Career Coaching and Matchmaking process, the Breistol Method®, helps construction management professionals like you, go from passenger to pilot of your career. -Deep proficiency in quantity take-offs, cost modelling, budget development, value engineering, subcontractor strategies and risk assessment. -Experience developing or refining estimating cost databases, benchmarking tools and implementing departmental KPIs. -Minimum 10–15 years of progressive experience in estimating and preconstruction for large commercial general contracting firms (ideally $250M+ company or with comparable project size). -Familiarity with design-build, design-assist delivery models and early involvement in the preconstruction process. -Experience working in the Florida market (or Southeast US) with regional subcontractor networks, concrete shell construction and cost-plus contracting. -Proven track record of managing estimating and preconstruction teams, leading winning bids and delivering profitable projects. -A leadership role with significant influence and visibility in a growing firm. -Willingness to travel to project sites, client/partner meetings and design/construction phase locations as needed. -Exceptional communication, presentation and negotiation skills - able to engage clients, A/E partners, subcontractors and internal stakeholders. -Proficient in estimating software and tools (take-off platforms, cost databases, similar procurement systems, construction management systems). -An industry network of subcontractors, suppliers, A/E partners and an understanding of local construction market dynamics. -Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture or similar preferred (or equivalent experience). -Strong technical understanding of commercial construction means and methods (especially concrete shell, cost-plus model, self-performed work, trade subcontracting). -Demonstrated ability to collaborate with business development, design teams, operations and senior leadership. -Financial acumen: understand project economics, margin drivers, indirect, general conditions, cost escalation, pricing strategies. -Background working with self-performed trades or managing large internal workforce in field operations. -Strong leadership and people development skills: ability to build a team, set direction, coach talent, hold accountability. Procore a plus.

Benefits

-Exposure to high-profile, complex commercial work that challenges and rewards. -Opportunity to build/refine systems, shape a department and drive meaningful results. -Competitive compensation package, incentive/bonus tied to performance, strong benefits in line with executive leadership roles. -Supportive culture with owners who value strategic thinking, collaboration and innovation. -Professional growth and an opportunity to mentor and develop a team of exceptional construction professionals.

The Company

About Florida Construction Connection, Inc.

-Founded with a vision to streamline talent acquisition in the construction industry. -Specializes in providing top-tier construction professionals for diverse projects across Florida. -Known for matching skilled workers with high-profile projects in both commercial and residential sectors. -Has developed a strong reputation in the construction industry for reliability and quality. -Offers expert solutions in workforce management, focusing on connecting the right people to the right jobs. -The company's projects range from large-scale commercial buildings to innovative residential developments. -Deeply embedded in Florida’s construction landscape, with a focus on long-term partnerships and results. -Continually adapts to the evolving needs of the construction industry, ensuring cutting-edge solutions.

Sector Specialisms

Window and Door Installation

Garage Door Installation

Plaster and Lath

Director of Preconstruction and Estimating at Florida Construction Connection, Inc. in Fort Lauderdale, FL